I Didn’t See You There

Winner of 2022 Sundance’s US Documentary Directing Award

”There is a curiosity about disability that is sometimes as brazen as that of spectators of the circus Freak Show. And so often, I bear the brunt of it. As a visibly disabled person, there is what feels like a determination from strangers that I am irreparably different. The sidewalk at times turns into a stage, and I can’t control it. On that stage, I am looked at without being seen.

I see film after film exploring disability in a clichéd, misguided way. Rarely am I able to relate to stories about disability on screen. I wanted to be able to portray my perspective in a way that would be difficult to fetishize or romanticize. So instead of turning the camera on myself, I turned it outward”. Reid Davenport, Director.

Flaunt Guest Curator, Kath Duncan shares her take on the film in the bonus content below.

A captivating film essay exploring the gaze of everyday spectacle, disabled identity, and the legacy of the Freak Show. Filmmaker Reid Davenport sets out to make a film about how he experiences the world. From either his wheelchair or his two feet, without having to be seen himself. Sit back and let this visually striking film move you and take you places. You will not be able to ignore I Didn’t See You There.