Wise Women

“Birth is the most everyday state of emergency in the world. A borderline experience, a force of nature, for those giving birth, those being born – and those who accompany them in the process.

Midwives occupy a unique perspective in this process. They accompany the most elemental transition of life and experience it thousands of times – and yet every birth, every life is unique. In this space between trust and uncertainty, between intimacy and professionalism, between life and death, they become silent witnesses, active shapers, and often hidden heroes.

With WISE WOMEN, I put five midwives from different cultures around the world at the center of the film and tell their stories. They represent one of humanity’s oldest professions; they are the original feminists, if you will, who have always provided solidarity-based women’s assistance – deeply connected to the cycle of life.

How is it then that this profession – around the globe – is being pushed out from the center of society? How can birth be connected with medical progress – without losing sight of the needs of women, families, and life itself?

The stories of the midwives reflect the state of our society – they touch on questions of self-determination, power, and the role of women. It’s about the most human thing we have: life itself.

Again and again, they find themselves in emotional borderline situations where they bear great responsibility, which many also consider their calling.”