Our Family’s Involvement in Normie
We feel lucky to be a part of this wonderful film, and to get to know Annemarie – the young woman whose story is followed in Normie! My family has a small cameo, so keep an eye out in the trailer for Penny ballet dancing in a pink tutu!
We put together a screening in our hometown this summer, where I spoke on a panel with the creators. I had seen Normie before, but watching it on a big screen in the context of a group of people only made me appreciate this film more. The main subject of the documentary, Anne Marie, is a funny, honest, articulate, young woman who insists on grappling with some of the deepest questions of life and meaning and purpose. Yes, she has Down syndrome, and yes, that defines her in some ways. But we can see ourselves in her as well.
I would also call this a coming-of-age story about a young woman who–like so many of us–longs to be loved for who she is and also wrestles with doubts about whether God has a purpose for her and even stuggles with self-hatred.
Through interviews with her, her parents, other parents of children with Down syndrome (including us!), and a physician, a magician, and a pastor, this film takes us on a journey of self-discovery, connection, beauty, and love. I’m so grateful I got to participate in it and share it with our local community – I highly recommend hosting a screening in October in honor of Down Syndrome Awareness Month!
Host a Screening
Why not host a screening of Normie in your area? Click here to request a screening through Tugg.
Not able to host? Find a Screening!
There may be a screening happening in October near you. Check out Tugg’s site to find out!
Watch the Trailer
Go HERE for some additional clips from Normie that feature me and my kids.
Film Synopsis
When Annemarie looks in the mirror, she sees Down syndrome. She hates it. To her, the diagnosis is a giant barricade keeping her from the independence and intimacy she desperately desires. She embarks on a journey of self-discovery as she tries to understand what it means to be normal.
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