Women's Work

Observationally shot, Women’s Work is a captivating documentary that delves into the world of birth workers in Utah, shedding light on the resurgence of midwifery and out-of-hospital births in the region. The latest screening of the film was at the Innis Town Hall theatre at the Toronto Women Film Festival in September. The film introduces us to Melissa, a seasoned midwife whose passion for her work extends beyond attending births. Melissa plays a crucial role in mentoring and training other women to become midwives and doulas, with a particular focus on her protégé, Allison. Together, they navigate the complexities of their demanding careers, juggling the responsibilities of family life while also coping with personal grief.

At the heart of Women’s Work is the theme of community and empowerment. Through their holistic and personalized approach to birthing experiences, Melissa and Allison create a supportive network of women who find strength and empowerment in embracing their unique journey to motherhood. The documentary beautifully captures the bonds that form among these women, showcasing the resilience and power that come from sharing such intimate moments.

Behind the lens of this poignant documentary is Joseph Duque, a talented Filipino-American filmmaker with a deep-rooted passion for storytelling through the art of documentary filmmaking.

Hailing from Southeast Idaho and currently based in Provo, Utah, Joseph's work reflects his keen interest in the visual language of editing and the raw authenticity of cinema verité. His dedication to his craft is evident in his past projects, such as the award-winning short documentary "Do You See Me?", which has garnered recognition at prestigious film festivals.

As Joseph Duque nears the completion of his BA in Media Arts Studies at Brigham Young University, with a minor in Asian Studies, his journey as a filmmaker continues to evolve. Through his work, Joseph not only captures compelling stories but also amplifies voices that deserve to be heard, making a meaningful impact in the world of documentary filmmaking.