EXPECTATIONS
An interactive narrative short film by Sara Brink
THE AUDIENCE
Originally written as an 8-page short, Expectations is being adapted into an interactive narrative that asks the audience to examine the social expectations that shape the way that Jane navigates the dissolution of her marriage by participating in the narrative. Using an app synced to the film, the audience is asked questions about what they just witnessed, which influences what they then see.
This story was always intended to spark reflection and conversation about the costs of gender roles and socialization. This new interactive format creates the container for that conversation while relieving the audience from the burden of identifying themselves as either victims or perpetrators.
THE STORY
Jane wakes up to her husband John penetrating and commencing sex with her. As she freezes and dissociates, she ruminates on conversations she's had and heard about what counts as sexual assault, and what her own responsibility is in maintaining marital intimacy. As Jane revisits her sexual history with John, she remembers everything - the good, the bad, and the ugly - as well as the good faith attempts she made to align their sexual needs and her own safety. While John's act is never overtly labeled "rape," it becomes clear that it is a violation of Jane's consent, and the conclusion is left ambiguous as the audience and the couple are left with that violation hanging in the air between them.
THE IMPACT
Expectations is seeking researchers and non-profits as partners in developing an educational curriculum to pair with the film.
One third
Women who reported having "unwanted sex" with their partners.
Sexual assaults reported to the authorities.
Fewer than 1 in 3
99%
Perpetrators of rape who are male.
Rapes committed by someone the victim knows.
8 out of 10
College-aged women who had been legally raped, but didn't identify it as such.
Approximately 3 out of 4
88%
College-aged men who were adamant that their actions were not rape, though they admitted to actions that fit the legal definition.
From the Shadow to the Light
Expectations confronts one of the most common yet unseen forms of sexual assault within intimate relationships. It reveals how emotional disconnection and dehumanization between partners seeds the growing divide between women and men.
Written by director Sara Brink from her lived experience, the film seeks to spark perspective-bridging conversations and prevent further harm. After a decade in the film industry, Sara pivoted from her usual sci-fi/fantasy storytelling to self-produce this piece in recognition of its urgent social relevance.
In an era where powerful tech companies amplify misogyny and embolden social and political division, Expectations calls on artists and audiences alike to rebuild empathy and accountability. The film is seeking partnerships with nonprofits, educators, and media outlets to help spark open, healing conversations that remind us we’re all better off when we listen, understand, and care for one another.
READ ACT ONE