Director Lysa Heslov's documentary, "Served Like a Girl, provides a candid look at several American women as they transition from active duty to civilian life after serving tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. Our wounded U.S. female service personnel often return to a stark reality, one that is rarely discussed or considered. Struggling with PTSD, homelessness, broken families, serious illness, physical injuries, and the aftermath of military sexual abuse, these amazing women find ways to adapt and overcome debilitating challenges through participation in the "Ms. Veteran America" competition. Guided by event founder and veteran, Jas Boothe, the women leverage their experiences gained through competition to recover the parts of themselves and their personal identities they had lost on the battlefield. Called "Engaging, Honest and Powerful," this film is a beautiful tapestry interlaced with poignant moments, social commentary, and humor.
Lysa began her career as a producer, with shorts Mailman with Sandra Bullock, Nobody's Perfect with Hank Azaria, and full length feature Black Circle Boys, all premiered at Sundance. She then went on to produce the award winning feature, Bug. After founding Children Mending Hearts, which fights bullying and promotes empathy, Heslov went back to producing Served Like A Girl which she ended up directing. Served Like A Girl premiered at SXSX, premiered theatrically, with a PBS television premiere. Lysa is wrapping up a three year shoot on four part true crime series, Brother From Another, which recently sold in multiple offers. Lysa recently began shooting The Swiftboat, which addresses the issues of cancel culture. She is co-directing with Amanda de Cadenet.
