I Am Evidence

About "I Am Evidence"

I Am Evidence is a compelling 2018 documentary film that takes an insightful look into the immense number of untested rape kits in the United States and the survivors who are fighting for justice. The film provides invaluable knowledge on the backlog of these rape kits in various states, exposing how the systemic negligence and indifference towards these cases deny justice to the survivors and enable criminals to offend again. The film, directed by Trish Adlesic and Geeta Gandbhir, features actress and activist Mariska Hargitay, who interviews the survivors, investigators, prosecutors and advocates involved.

Making / Production

"I Am Evidence" was produced by HBO Documentary Films. Trish Adlesic and Geeta Gandbhir led the direction, with Mariska Hargitay serving as the executive producer. The documentary project took several years to compile as the filmmakers interviewed dozens of sexual assault survivors and professionals across the country.

Actors

• Mariska Hargitay: Mariska Hargitay is an actress, producer, and advocate who plays herself in the documentary. Best known for her role on "Law & Order: SVU," she devotes immense passion and dedication to activism through her performance in the documentary.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• "I Am Evidence" is named after a remark made by one of the survivors, who proclaimed that "I am evidence" of a crime that was dismissed and forgotten.
• Mariska Hargitay was inspired to produce this documentary after learning about the vast number of untested rape kits in the United States while preparing for her role on "Law & Order: SVU."

Awards

"I Am Evidence" won the Audience Award for Best Documentary Film at the 2017 Traverse City Film Festival. It was also nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the 2018 Cleveland International Film Festival.

Quotes

• "We need to create a system that is victim-centered, that is compassionate, and that is caring, and it starts with testing these kits." -Mariska Hargitay
• "The system tells us we don't matter... that nobody cares about us." - Survivor

Music, Soundtrack

The film's original score was composed by Wendy Blackstone, renowned for her work on various award-winning films and documentaries. Her music adds a subtle yet profound impact, sensitively enhancing the film's powerful and emotional narrative.