My name is Justin Andrew Davis and I suffer from body dysmorphia and binge eating disorder. Recently, I opened up about these issues for my upcoming short film, You Look Great, and the response has been nothing short of inspiring.
As an actor and writer, I fully believe it’s my obligation to share myself and my vulnerabilities through my work, even if it helps only one person. That said, I could have never imagined just how much support would follow after our Seed&Spark campaign went live.
I’ve struggled with my weight most of my life, which used to be a strange, secretive, and shameful thing to admit — particularly as a man. Who wants to hear about how much you hate yourself and the way you look? Don’t you have more important things to worry about? Are we really supposed to believe that men know what it’s like to feel societal pressure about their bodies?
Even now a small part of me agrees: there are certainly many more enriching, substantial, and pressing priorities in this life. But the larger part of me — that has endured years of internal self-loathing and disgust, that threatens my well-being on a daily basis with the irrational fear that I will never be “good enough” — that part knows better.
Through writing, discussing, and sharing the intimate details of my personal story, I’ve learned that this struggle is much more common and profound than we all think, and that’s the where the conversation surrounding You Look Great gets started: with others out there realizing they aren’t alone, and that it’s okay to talk about it.
Thing is, we all hurt (in our own infinite and unique ways), but if we open up about ourselves, we can be each other’s strength — and that’s incredible. You Look Great may have started as a film, but it has evolved into a thriving community, one that is ready to mobilize and be heard. And with 8 days left to raise the $2,700 necessary to hit 80% and receive the funds we’ve already raised, I am 110% confident this film will enter the world one way or another.
We all deserve a more understanding and empathetic culture, and I wholeheartedly believe that’s worth fighting for. This story started with us but it lives on through you now, and in the conversations we start and share.
If you would like to help us continue growing our community, please contribute what you can and share our campaign and message with those who might be interested or in need.
You never know whose pain might also be your own.
You can help raise money for the upcoming short film, You Look Great at Seed&Spark
As a special gift to all contributors to the You Look Great campaign, you will receive an exclusive collaboration coupon code worth 15% off your total purchase from Schizophrenic.NYC. It’s our thank you for joining our community and getting the conversation started!
