“Me & My Penis” – A Bold Upcoming Comedy Film
“Me & My Penis” is an upcoming comedy film that boldly tackles the subjects of erectile dysfunction and sex addiction. Set for a public festival run in 2025, this film is unique for being the first comedy created under the innovative approach known as Cathartic Realism. Directed by Claire Chubbuck, recognized as one of the “Directors to Watch” in 2023, the film features an impressive team of executive producers, including Travis Fimmel, Bayan Joonam, and Ivana Chubbuck.
The storyline centers around Jason, a mid-thirties man struggling with anxiety-induced impotence. His journey becomes more complicated when his condition manifests as a six-foot-tall personified penis named Victor. Convinced that sexual prowess is the key to attracting women, Jason embarks on a series of humorous and often awkward attempts to impress his dates. Through this comedic lens, the film delves into deeper themes of shame, addiction, and the quest for authentic intimacy.
Before its public release, “Me & My Penis” will have a therapeutic friends and family showing in September, overseen by the project’s head psychiatrist. This screening is designed to provide a supportive environment for the cast and crew, highlighting the film’s potential for therapeutic impact.
An Introduction to Cathartic Realism
Cathartic Realism is a groundbreaking storytelling technique that revolutionizes the way personal narratives are portrayed on screen. Developed by Claire Chubbuck, this method merges the transformative power of the Chubbuck Technique with the raw authenticity of shame resilience and trauma management. The goal is to create films where survivors become the protagonists of their own stories, guided by the expertise of psychiatrists like Dr. Joe Gottfried and Dr. Kobie Allison.
This process begins with the survivor’s personal story, which is then crafted into a screenplay that maintains the emotional truth of their experiences. Throughout the filmmaking process, participants undergo therapeutic interventions designed to foster resilience and catharsis. The final product is a film that not only entertains but also serves as a testament to the survivor’s journey and strength.
Dr. Joe Gottfried has conducted extensive research to measure the efficacy of Cathartic Realism. Utilizing scales such as the Davidson Trauma Scale for PTSD and the PHQ-9 and Hamilton Depression Scale for depression, Dr. Gottfried has demonstrated significant reductions in PTSD and depression symptoms among participants. This innovative approach provides a powerful platform for healing, allowing individuals to reclaim their narratives and find empowerment through storytelling.
Claire Chubbuck – The Visionary
Claire Chubbuck, the driving force behind Cathartic Realism, is an acclaimed director and educator whose work has garnered significant attention and accolades. Daughter of the renowned acting coach Ivana Chubbuck and late director Lyndon Chubbuck, Claire has established herself as a formidable figure in the world of filmmaking. Her unique approach to storytelling emphasizes truth and authenticity, drawing from real-life traumas to craft compelling narratives.
As Vice President at the Ivana Chubbuck Studio, Claire leads master-level workshops globally, sharing her expertise in the Chubbuck Technique. Her journey began with a degree from the Tisch School of the Arts, followed by contributions to iconic shows like “Breaking Bad” and “Mad Men” at AMC Networks. Later, at Participant Media, she played a pivotal role in launching the PIVOT broadcast network.
Claire’s passion for storytelling extends to feature-length documentaries and short-form content for organizations such as the ACLU, Oxfam, Stand Up 2 Cancer, Sundance TV, and AMC Networks. Her films have been showcased at prestigious festivals, including the Beverly Hills Film Festival and Atlanta Film Festival, earning numerous awards and recognitions.
Notably, Claire’s work is underpinned by research from experts like Dr. Brene Brown and Dr. James Pennebaker, validating the therapeutic impact of Cathartic Realism. Her innovative method is currently being evaluated through a bespoke rating scale to further assess its therapeutic value.
With over 30 accolades to her name, Claire has been celebrated for her direction and artistic vision. Awards include “Best Female Director” from the Vegas Movie Awards and the “Best Artistic Film” at the Atlanta Film Festival 2022. Her dedication to authenticity and healing through storytelling continues to inspire and revolutionize the film industry.
In summary, “Me & My Penis” is more than just a comedy; it’s a pioneering effort in the realm of Cathartic Realism, helmed by the visionary Claire Chubbuck. Through this film and her innovative technique, Claire is transforming the way stories are told and experienced, providing a platform for healing and empowerment.