Impure, a film five years in the making. This premiere wasn’t just a screening, but an event that united filmmakers, activists, and audience members for a common cause. A report by menstrual health advocate Monicah Muhoya from Kenya.
– BY MONICAH MUHOYA –
As I settled into my seat and the lights dimmed, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. How would this film tackle such a sensitive yet crucial topic? Little did I know that the next hour or so would take me on an emotional journey, challenging my perspectives and stirring a deep sense of responsibility. Directed by Rico Herre, Impure tells the story of June, a twelve-year-old Kenyan girl facing her first menstruation at school. What should be a natural transition into womanhood becomes a harrowing journey through unawareness, exclusion, and shame. As the opening scenes unfolded, I realised this wasn’t just a coming-of-age story; it was a mirror reflecting the harsh realities faced by countless girls across Kenya and beyond.
A tragic true story
What struck me immediately was the film’s setting. It was shot in the mesmerising landscapes of Kwale County, specifically the beautiful village of Tsunza. Impure, a film five years in the making, takes a bold step in highlighting one of the most overlooked yet deeply ingrained issues in society: period shaming. Inspired by the tragic true story of Jackline, a Kenyan girl whose life was cut short by period stigma, the film brings into focus the silent struggles that many girls face and the societal structures that perpetuate their suffering. Impure is a German production filmed in Kenya, financed solely by director Rico Herre’s private funds. Similar to other productions in the industry, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly slowed down the post-production progress. Budget issues continued to prolong the process even after covid restrictions were lifted.
Unlike the real-life event it’s based on, the movie ends on an inspirational and hopeful note. The teacher isn’t portrayed as an antagonist and the story leaves room for her possible redemption. Shot across various Kenyan locations, the film dives deep into the gender roles and stereotypes surrounding menstruation. It asks critical questions: What do young girls understand about their bodies? Why do they bear the brunt of shame for something so natural? The narrative captures the curiosity surrounding pregnancy, the disengagement from parents, and the often subtle but powerful confidence-building process that every girl undergoes – along with the silent pain that is rarely spoken of.
Authentic experiences
At the heart of the story is June, a character whose journey reflects the authentic and often painful experience of girls and young women in Kenya and beyond. The film tackles the responsibility of teachers and the importance of boys being part of the conversation on menstruation. The message is clear: periods are normal, and shame has no place in this dialogue. Yet, we see how deeply embedded the shame and stigma are – passed down through cultural and religious norms perpetuated by silence. With a crew composed of 50% women, it shines a light on the lack of support women in Kenya face, particularly in addressing issues around sanitation infrastructure, menstrual health, and even the education system. The film’s poignant moments – such as the scenes that reflect the euphemism used in Kenya for periods (‘kunyesha’ or ‘it’s raining’) – bring out the nuances of the struggle.
Include men in the conversation
The film doesn’t shy away from the emotions of men either. It explores the empathy required from fathers and male figures toward their daughters’ experiences. There’s a distinct call to include men in this conversation, not just as allies but as active participants in changing the narrative. What if men menstruated? Would society treat the issue differently? As a menstrual hygiene advocate, I resonated with the film’s portrayal of the gap in comprehensive sexual education in rural areas, where girls often face period poverty and lack access to products like pads. This leads to missed school days, lost opportunities, and a cycle of shame that continues unchecked. The film highlights the systemic issues that perpetuate this: financial constraints, lack of awareness, and the absence of robust social support systems.
A call to action
The film also touches on climate change and its effects on health, including menstrual hygiene. Through its narrative, Impure showcases how periods – something so natural – are linked to bigger human rights issues, including the right to education and health. While the film is inspired by a heartbreaking real-life event, it leaves the audience with a sense of hope. June’s journey, though filled with challenges, is a reminder of the resilience of women and girls. The presence of Jacqueline’s family in the making of this film adds a deeply personal dimension to the story. Her mother and nephew, who were present during key moments, bring a sentiment of healing and inspiration, showing that her legacy will live on and give hope to other girls.
Kenya serves as the perfect backdrop for this film, and the cast and crew worked tirelessly to make this story a reality. With support from prominent advocates like Janet Mbugua and local organisations working on grassroots advocacy, Impure seeks to inspire real, lasting change. It’s a call to action – to rethink the way we talk about periods, address the shame and silence that still surrounds them, and provide financial support for initiatives that advocate for menstrual health and gender equality.
Kaleidoscope of images
Impure is more than just a film – it’s a movement. By showcasing the impact of period stigma on the lives of young girls, it shines a spotlight on an issue that affects millions globally. As a menstrual hygiene advocate, I believe this film will spark much-needed conversations and, hopefully, lead to tangible solutions for girls like Jacqueline. Not just in Kenya, but around the world.
The film’s technical aspects were nothing short of breathtaking. Ignacio Hennigs, the Director of Photography and Co-Producer, created a kaleidoscope of images, ranging from intimate drama to sweeping landscapes. His sharp eye captured visuals that words simply cannot express, vividly bringing the story to life. What particularly captured me was the cinematography’s intimacy. The camera’s closeness to faces and hair made me feel like I was in the movie myself. This visceral quality, dream sequences, and anxiety-inducing moments perfectly captured June’s inner turmoil. Adding to this visual feast was Ibrahim Sidede’s musical score. Authentic yet cinematic, it fully immerses the audience in the story. Sidede delivered what I can only describe as a magnum opus, enhancing every emotional beat of the narrative.
Powerful performances
The cast brought depth and authenticity to their roles. Eunice Ruwa’s portrayal of June was particularly moving. Her sensitivity and conviction in the leading role promises to empower young girls who will see themselves in June’s journey. Millicent Mwanza as Kimya quickly became my favourite character. Her performance beautifully epitomised childhood innocence before the onset of puberty, symbolising a time of pure, untainted youth.
As the film progressed, I was deeply impressed by its unflinching examination of complex themes. The psychological development of the characters, the sense of realism, and the high level of intensity were commendable. Impure bravely tackles difficult subjects, such as suicide, period shaming, poverty, and societal expectations of girls, with nuance and sensitivity.
Catalyst for change
Sitting in that cinema, surrounded by fellow viewers equally moved by the unfolding story, I realised that Ímpure was more than just a film. It was a catalyst for change, a voice for the voiceless, and a mirror reflecting our society’s often overlooked challenges. Director Herre emphasised: ‘In this story, we saw just one example of a girl’s struggle, while there are millions of other Junes out there.’ The evening was concluded with a minute of silence in honor of Jackline, a solemn reminder of the real-life implications of period stigma and the urgent need for change. As the credits rolled and the lights came up, there was a clear sense that this film would continue its journey. Not just through festivals and cinema halls, but as a powerful educational tool in the fight against period shame and stigma.
About the author
Social entrepreneur and menstrual health advocate Monicah Muhoya (Kenya) is the founder of the Heels4Pads Foundation. In Kenya, 65% of women face the harsh reality of period poverty. They struggle to afford basic menstrual products, resorting to makeshift solutions like rags, old or even tissue paper. This silent crisis forces 42% of schoolgirls to miss school during their periods, robbing them of their education and potential. ‘Heels4Pads is rewriting this narrative of shame and stigma. We believe that every girl deserves to walk confidently into her future, unburdened by the lack of menstrual products. Our innovative ‘heels exchange’ program empowers women to turn their gently used heels into tools of hope and dignity providing pads and education to the girls and women with unmet menstrual needs in Kenya and beyond.’
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