5 has commissioned new documentary My Boyfriend The Rapist (wt), produced by First Look TV and distributed by ITV Studios.
When a young woman stumbles upon devastating secret footage hidden on her own computer, she faces a moment that could define her life. In a horrifying set of videos, thirty-two year old Juliana Terlizzi lies drugged and unconscious in her own bed, in her own home. Her then partner Hubert Greliak is sexually assaulting her and filming the act.
Heartbroken and traumatised, with no memory of how or when the offence had happened, Juliana embarks on a quest for truth and justice. How could this happen to a strong, independent, young woman living her dream life in London?
Juliana faces painful, intrusive questions from the police. How could she prove this wasn’t consensual as she’s interrogated about her most intimate sexual experiences and forced to justify her behaviour? With allegations of sexual abuse within ongoing relationships extremely hard to prosecute, what will it take to finally see Hubert sent to prison?
Adrian Padmore, Commissioning Editor, Unscripted, 5 says: “Juliana is a brave and courageous woman whose story resonates so strongly. She’s a true survivor and her determination to pursue her case against the odds is testament to her resilience and strength of character. We’re so privileged that Juliana has trusted us to tell her shocking story in this film and reveal just how difficult it remains to secure a conviction in rape and sexual assault cases.”
Will Hanrahan, founder of FirstLookTV, added: “Juliana’s is an important story and her need to make this film fits in with our own ambition to help move the dial on social issues – the arrest and conviction rate for cases of rape is pitiful. We need to understand why.”
Rachel Bowering Executive Producer at First Look TV commented: “We are humbled by the bravery of the women speaking out. Their courage exposes the reality of abusive relationships and Juliana’s struggle to secure justice. It is a privilege to be telling their stories.”
Jon Creamer
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