TENDU, 2min., USA
Directed by Sophie Power, Michelene Mallard Billy
What happens when you grow up in a world where there was only one projected image of what a ballerina “should look like” - down to the pink nude pointe shoes?

https://www.sophiepower.info/

Get to know the filmmakers:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

Michelene: What I connected the dots on is that all of my motivation to create documentary films are all mainly connected to African American arts, culture and society. Contemporary as well as commercial dance was such a safe space for me. I took part in a handful of productions during my formative years. I’ve followed the world of dance since I slowed down to finish school, and I've always been more fascinated with those who looked like me in a mainly white centered profession. After originally shelving the idea of making a Black ballet portrait during a stressful, hectic first semester of cramming and making multiple films to meet class deadlines, Sophie encouraged me to continue to develop the film, even offering to co-direct with me.Thus,Tendu was born.

Sophie: When Michelene first pitched the project, I knew right away that I’d like to collaborate to bring it to life. I was struck immediately by her passion for showcasing Black excellence and we both shared a combined interest in cinematography surrounding the movement of dance. In development, we came across many stories of microaggressions which Black dancers faced in their professional journeys. Particularly in the classrooms/studios of their youth. Because of this, we were driven to turn our focus towards those who were shaking this up and paving a better path for the next generation. The name ‘Tendu’ coming from the French word “tense”, is a core ballet movement which “serves as a foundation for many others”. For this project, we decided to play on this analogy by seeking out a selection of talented New York dancers/ teachers who, empowered by their craft, encourage young children of color to get involved in ballet. Thereby creating a warm and welcoming base from which Black talent can grow. Micah’s portrait is the first part of this series.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?

Sophie: For Micah’s portrait it was relatively quick. From shoot day to post it took approximately two weeks. It was a pleasure to work with him and we really enjoyed filming in such a calm and beautiful setting next to gentle sounds of the water. The project itself as a whole is on-going - the next part of the series with the very talented dancers Amanda Smith, Kobe Courtney and Judea Lowe is soon to be released.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?

Michelene: Enchanting, Captivating

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

Sophie: Access to the garden location inside the Ford Foundation for Social Justice Center. Everyone we spoke to there was very kind and helpful, however as it’s a building in the center of Midtown right beside Grand Central - security was incredibly tight. There were approx 15 security guards to navigate - that’s a lot of checkpoints with equipment!

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

Michelene: I was nervous at first - every auteur/artist is nervous when someone sees their work for the first time, but was delighted that our people resonated with our film and took in the beauty and patience that we strived for. Understanding the need for representation in contemporary dance was my biggest takeaway that I hoped to reach audiences, and I am grateful that it did.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

Michelene: It took me 10 years to find my why, and I do not regret it.
I rummaged through freelance blog work and wrote countless music reviews while working numerous side hustles. It wasn't until I picked up my first camera while on assignment for a new artist feature in 2016 that I finally felt like I was home. I ended up making my first short doc, and the rest was history.

Sophie: For as long as I can remember I’ve been interested in human stories - particularly around arts and culture. Whilst writing for an independent magazine called INDIE, I got the greatest enjoyment out of interviewing subjects for various pieces. Artists, designers, drag performers - I felt endlessly curious. This combined with working as a Video Producer lay the foundation for documentary work. On a freelance contract for the production of ‘Hawking – Can You Hear Me?’ – a feature documentary on the life of Stephen Hawking, I felt thrilled and honored to be in discussion with the family members of this groundbreaking astrophysicist. This was the moment which solidified my desire to direct non-fiction.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

Michelene: The Color Purple (1985)
Sophie: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

Michelene: I would say implementing a mixer where filmmakers can make connections.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

Sophie: I found it incredibly stream-lined and easy to use. It helps that once the project is created on FilmFreeway, it’s easily accessible for everyone to see.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Michelene: I like mostly anything with carbs and red meat! My go to is a nice cube steak and baked potato. Or a homemade lamb shank and pasta with mushrooms. Hearty and in my belly!

Sophie: Can’t say no to sushi!

11. What is next for you? A new film?

Michelene: I have a few films in pre-production, including a thesis film documentary portrait titled Supernova which follows Chyna Streetz, an NYC based rapper with a turbulent past and bright future (currently filming,) and I am producing/DPing the first episode to a hybrid six-part series about the trauma and healing of Black Women, appropriately titled Cicatrix. So yeah, I’m pretty busy!

Sophie: Next up I’m directing and producing my first experimental hybrid documentary which will be showcased in May at the Cityvisions 2025 Festival. Alongside this, I will be the Production Designer on a thought-provoking short film on migrant dairy farmers by Director Izabel Acevado titled ‘Fabiana’s Birthday’, as well as working on some exciting documentary features for broadcast/streaming with the production company Motto Pictures.