UK Premiere

Modern Masturbation Allegory 当代自慰寓言

Short Film Competition 2

Year of production 2024

Production Countries and Regions United Kingdom

Duration 17 mins

Genres Documentary

Language(s)

Director(s) Xinyi Li

Producer(s) Xinyi Li, Jessica Shi

Synopsis

22-year-old Xinyi believed she had developed a masturbation addiction and claimed to be experiencing indescribable feelings. While struggling, she couldn't help but constantly fall into the cycle of indulgence and suffering. In a world where everyone is ashamed of sexual satisfaction, she embarked on a journey of collecting masturbation stories told by similar individuals.

This film featuring three girls in their early 20s, serving as a modern allegory that reflects the mental state of contemporary young people. When, where, tools, fetishes, fantasies—here, people tear away shame and taboos, revealing their most intimate masturbation experiences.

As the journey goes on, Xinyi finds that people’s masturbation stories have gradually become a mirror, reflecting everyone's true self.

Curators’ note

Director’s bio

Xinyi Li is an independent documentary director, producer, and curator, her films and curations focus on issues such as sex, body, intimacy, ecology, and women.

Director‘s statement

Festival & Awards

IN THE PALACE Film Festival – Best Student Documentary

Casts

Xinyi Li

Credits