Free the Nipple (film)

Free the Nipple (film) is a 2014 American comedy-drama film directed by Lina Esco. The film, inspired by the Free the Nipple campaign, aims to challenge the censorship laws in the United States that Esco argues are harsher on female nipples than on male nipples. The narrative follows a group of women who decide to take to the streets of New York City topless, to protest against censorship and for gender equality, specifically focusing on the right for women to go topless in public, as men are allowed to.

Plot

The story revolves around Liv, played by Lola Kirke, who after witnessing the censorship and shaming of women's bodies, decides to take action. She is joined by With, portrayed by Casey LaBow, and a group of activists. Together, they organize protests, challenging the societal norms and legal restrictions regarding female toplessness. Their journey is met with various obstacles, including arrests, but also gains public attention and sparks debate over the issue of gender equality and censorship.

Cast

• Lola Kirke as Liv
• Casey LaBow as With
• Lina Esco as Herself
• Monique Coleman as Roz
• Zach Grenier as Jim
• Griffin Newman as Ollie

Production

Directed and produced by Lina Esco, Free the Nipple was inspired by real-life events and the Free the Nipple campaign, which Esco also founded. The film was shot in New York City and aimed to highlight the discrepancies in censorship laws affecting men and women differently. Esco's motivation for creating the film and the campaign was to address and challenge the sexualization of the female body in media and public spaces, advocating for equality and the normalization of the female body.

Reception

Upon its release, Free the Nipple received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the film for its bold approach to discussing and challenging gender norms and censorship laws, while others criticized it for its execution and perceived lack of depth in exploring the issues at hand. Despite the mixed critical reception, the film succeeded in sparking conversations about gender equality, censorship, and the sexualization of the female body, aligning with its goal to promote social change.

Impact

The film and the campaign it represents have contributed to the broader feminist movement, encouraging discussions on gender equality, body autonomy, and the right to free expression. Free the Nipple has inspired similar movements and protests worldwide, highlighting the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the normalization of the female body in public spaces.

See also

• Censorship in the United States
• Gender equality
• Feminist movement