We’re thrilled to announce that The Choice, the groundbreaking VR documentary series exploring reproductive rights, is returning with two powerful new episodes premiering at SXSW 2025!
Since its debut in 2021, The Choice has captivated audiences worldwide with its intimate storytelling, innovative design, and profound impact. The first chapter, Kristen’s Story, won the Audience Award at SXSW 2022 and Best XR for Impact at Games for Change 2022, while also being selected for over 20 international festivals. Now, the series continues with two new stories that deepen and expand the conversation about reproductive rights.
New Episodes Premiering at SXSW 2025
In 2025, The SXSW Audience Award winner from 2022 returns with two new episodes that broaden and deepen the conversation about reproductive rights. The Choice continues to explore the complex realities behind abortion decisions, presenting stories that challenge stigma and invite empathy.
Continuing the minimalist animation and gentle, conversation-like interactions from the first episode, The Choice uses immersive VR combined with life-like stereoscopic-volumetric video to draw the audience into intimate, immersive conversations that build profound empathy.
Chapter 2: Makayla’s Story
Makayla, a young woman from San Antonio, shares her journey through two abortions—one in a clinical setting and the other self-managed. Her story provides critical insights about misoprostol, commonly known as the abortion pill, addressing fears and uncertainties surrounding the process. In a post-Dobbs America, where access to safe and legal abortion is increasingly restricted, Makayla’s experience is a powerful testament to resilience and personal agency. Her story is not only deeply personal but also urgently timely, shedding light on the realities of self-managed abortion in a fractured healthcare system.
Chapter 3: Leigh and Dan’s Story
This episode offers a rare and vital perspective on shared decision-making through the story of Leigh and Dan from Toronto, a married couple who never planned to have children. As a mature couple facing an unplanned pregnancy, they navigate the emotional complexities of their situation with honesty and vulnerability. Dan’s supportive yet deeply personal process is explored alongside Leigh’s experience, showcasing how couples can navigate these decisions together. Their story challenges traditional narratives around abortion and highlights the importance of mutual understanding and partnership in the face of life-altering choices.
A Series That Sparks Empathy and Conversation
The Choice has always been more than a documentary—it’s a catalyst for empathy, understanding, and change. Using minimalist animation and life-like volumetric video, the series creates intimate, conversation-like interactions that challenge stigma and invite audiences to engage deeply with personal stories.
Join Us at SXSW 2025
We invite you to join us at SXSW 2025 for the premiere of these two new episodes. The screening dates: March 8-11th, 2025, you can find more information here:
In the meantime, you can experience the groundbreaking first chapter, portraying Kristen’s story, on Meta Quest. Watch it now to prepare for the next chapters of this powerful series:
WATCH CHAPTER 1 ON META QUEST
Stay tuned for more updates, including the release of the official teaser for the new episodes.
Thank you for supporting The Choice and helping us continue this important conversation. Together, we can challenge stigma, foster empathy, and advocate for the freedom to choose.
Joanne Popinska, The Choice director
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