In romantic interactions, one is expected to always respect a partner’s decision to say 'no'.
But what happens when he/she says 'yes'? Are you allowed to say 'no' to a 'yes'? Or are you obligated to say 'yes' in return? Directed by Martin Ponperrada, Sí is a short film that explores the dynamics of consent and coercion in intimate relationships.
In the film, two young adults, Carlo (Carlo Sardon) and Anita (Luz Rodriguez-Basalvibaso) go out to have drinks in a bar. In the beautiful ambience of the young evening, while actively engaged in a humorous conversation, their interaction is so effortless that Anita invites Carlo to accompany her home.
However, Carlo is hesitant to get intimate with Anita when they finally get home. This is after Anita reveals that she was once violated intimately while on a trip to Cancun. Despite Anita’s reassurances, Carlo can’t help but feel like he’s taking advantage of Anita’s vulnerability.
Carlo feels Anita may be subconsciously exposing herself to potentially abusive situations. This really hurts Anita’s feelings and she tells Carlo that “treating me like I’m broken, only makes me feel more broken”. However, Carlo is still unable to shake off the feeling that he may be coercing her.
With Sí, Ponperrada ignites a serious discourse around what the real definition of coercion in intimate relations is and especially so if victims of sexual assault are involved. Si also effectively interrogates the purported monopoly of power held by women when it comes to consent.
Laden with short but compellingly thought-provoking phrases, animated performances by the characters, and high quality visuals, Sí is more than a film made to entertain. Rather, it is a film that is meant to, and indeed does, initiate a culture-shifting conversation and one that we would definitely recommend.
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