Experiencing Interruptions?

Mirrorball

"Mirrorball" is an experimental film that I created for my experimental film class last semester. My goal with this film was to exaggerate the daily struggle I endure as a half Polynesian woman living in a small West Virginian town. Here in West Virginia, it is rare that a person recognizes my ethnicity. Based on my tan complexion, I am stereotypically considered to be Mexican or even half African American. My culture is unrecognizable here and I am forced to reflect what is best understood in this dominantly white local culture: my caucasian side. I dress in normal jeans and teeshirts because no one here would ever accept my cultural dresses without judgement. Can you imagine what it would feel like to reflect the cultures around you to fit in, while neglecting your own? Welcome to my daily life. I am a mirrorball.

  • Makenzie Francis
    Director
  • Makenzie Francis
    Writer
  • Project Type:
    Experimental, Student
  • Runtime:
    3 minutes 43 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    December 10, 2020
  • Production Budget:
    100 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    DSLR 18mm-55mm
  • Film Color:
    Black & White and Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Shepherd University
Director Biography - Makenzie Francis

My name is Makenzie Francis. I am 22 years old and a Communications and New Media major, with a focus in Digital Filmmaking, at Shepherd University. I am half Caucasian and Samoan. I have lived in Martinsburg, West Virginia my whole life. I am most inspired by the ocean and from my faith in God. My favorite film genres are Fantasy, Adventure, Action, and Coming of Age. I hope to some day own my own production studio and create films from my favorite genres.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

I chose to create this film to express my daily struggles as a Polynesian woman forced to adapt to my small town stereotypes. I incorporated my love for the ocean as a connection to my Samoan culture. I included a painting of the sea as an indication of the face I paint on to fit in. This film will always be special to me, as this was my first pubic indication of the racial issues I experience on a daily basis.