For director and screenwriter Shatara Michelle Ford, the essence of cinema often lies in the authenticity of real life. Following the success of their debut feature, Test Pattern, which explored the intricate layers of a Black woman’s experience, Ford is set to unveil their highly anticipated second film, Dreams in Nightmares, at the BlackStar Film Festival. This film, which serves as the festival’s closing feature on its opening night, offers a fresh take on the classic American road-trip narrative, focusing on three Black queer femmes on a journey through the Midwest to find a missing friend.
The film boasts a talented cast, including Denée Benton, Sasha Compère, Charlie Barnett, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Mars Storm Rucker, and Dezi Bing. Rather than adhering to commercial expectations, Dreams in Nightmares aims to highlight the beauty and complexity of lives often overlooked. Collaborating closely with costume designer Mikhaela Zabalerio, Ford sought to present the characters as authentically beautiful, eschewing conventional notions of glamour. The result is a poignant film that captures the myriad emotions that define our humanity.
In anticipation of the film’s premiere, a roundtable discussion was held featuring Ford, Zabalerio, and Benton. The conversation delved into the film’s commitment to authenticity and the challenges of portraying Black femininity on screen.
When asked about the film’s honesty, Ford expressed her desire to move beyond the aspirational narratives often found in contemporary cinema. She cited older films as her inspiration, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the characters’ unique vibrancy and perspectives. Ford’s vision for Dreams in Nightmares was to strip away the superficial layers that can limit representation, allowing for a more genuine portrayal of beauty and identity.
Zabalerio echoed Ford’s sentiments, noting that the project was a departure from the typical focus on high-end fashion. Instead, the team prioritized the characters’ inner lives and realities, opting for thrifted wardrobe pieces that felt grounded and authentic. This approach allowed the film to reflect the characters’ true selves, rather than conforming to industry standards.
Benton, who has experience in both period pieces and Broadway productions, shared her experience of embracing vulnerability in her role. She described the challenge of reconciling societal beauty standards with the authenticity of her character, Z. The process of shedding expectations and embracing her natural self was both liberating and healing for Benton.
Ford’s use of classic Hollywood techniques infused with modern sensibilities further distinguishes Dreams in Nightmares. By employing lighting and visual styles reminiscent of earlier cinematic eras, Ford creates a lush, inviting atmosphere that celebrates the protagonists’ beauty without imposing external standards. The film’s aesthetic choices reflect the diverse expressions of Black femininity, allowing each character to shine in their own right.
The film’s narrative is deeply personal for Ford, who drew inspiration from her own experiences during the pandemic. The journey of self-discovery and the quest for belonging resonate throughout the film, inviting viewers to reflect on their own lives and aspirations. Ford emphasizes that despite the challenges faced by marginalized communities, there is always room for joy and hope.
Zabalerio’s experience in sourcing wardrobe pieces from unexpected places added a layer of authenticity to the film. The process of finding garments that resonated with the characters’ everyday lives allowed the team to create a more relatable and grounded portrayal. This commitment to realism is a rarity in an industry often fixated on superficiality.
Benton reflected on the transformative nature of the filming process, highlighting the importance of feeling accepted and valued for who she is. The film’s exploration of belonging and self-acceptance serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in community and authenticity.
As Dreams in Nightmares prepares for its premiere, the creative team hopes to inspire a broader conversation about representation in cinema. By centering the experiences of Black queer femmes, the film challenges traditional narratives and paves the way for more diverse storytelling.
The film’s premiere at the BlackStar Film Festival on August 1, 2024, marks a significant moment for Ford and her team. Their dedication to authenticity and representation promises to resonate with audiences, offering a fresh perspective on the complexities of identity and belonging.
In a world where nightmares can often feel overwhelming, the creative team behind Dreams in Nightmares reminds us of the power of storytelling to illuminate the beauty and resilience of marginalized lives. Through their work, they invite us to dream, to reflect, and to embrace the richness of our shared humanity.
Source: BlackStar Film Festival, ESSENCE
