Retrograde

Retrograde is a dance film about how trauma & memory loss can cycle throughout the mind. Focusing around the tormented relationship one can experience with a loss of identity; Retrograde is inspired by the original poem written by Alina Stefanescu. Drawn from her personal trauma & fatal brain injury, the images of water symbolise a past life, remembrance, & reflection washing over the mind. The music composed by Noam Leor, instills the different textures of memory & the sounds of it’s nostalgic nature. Choreography by Miguel Miranda & Jack Puluka offer a physical representation of living outside the shell of yourself. Retrograde reminds us that our present behaviors & decisions are composed of our past experiences. While we can’t change who we are, there is always possibility for growth once we accept the truths that have shaped us into today's reality.

  • Jack Thorne Puluka
    Dancer / Editor
  • Miguel Miranda
    Dancer
  • Alina Stefanescu
    Poet
  • Noam Leor
    Musical Composer
  • Project Type:
    Experimental, Short, Student, Other
  • Genres:
    dance, modern, editing, composition, poetry
  • Runtime:
    5 minutes 9 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    May 14, 2021
  • Production Budget:
    0 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    iphone
  • Film Color:
    Black & White and Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Montclair University
  • Montclair University
Distribution Information
  • Montclair University
Director Biography

Jack Puluka (he / she) is a Central Jersey native with a deep adoration for showcasing personal stories. As a Montclair State University graduate with his BFA in Dance & minor in Filmmaking; she has worked with artists such as Garret Coleman, Jessie DiMauro, Christian Von Howard, Stefanie Batten Bland, Paul Taylor Company, Darrah Carr, Sean Curran, Urban Bush Women & Dolly Sfeir. Jack strives to merge humanity with movement. Amplifying human experiences with the commingle of different art forms. His choreography & cinematography have been shown at The Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) Animation Festival, as well as Montclair State University’s (MSU) “Dance Makers” & “Creative Collaborations” performances. Jack aims to continuously explore the art of redefining storytelling through theater & multimedia for all audiences.

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Director Statement

Puluka Projects is a New Jersey based freelance company centered around storytelling through movement & multimedia. Lead by choreographer, teacher, designer, videographer & artistic director Jack Puluka (he / she). Who’s love for storytelling inspires her to create works that are accessible to audiences of all ages. Amplifying human experiences with the commingle of stylistic art forms. Puluka Projects is a reflection of the internal stories of humankind. With an emphasis on physical theater in conjunction with personal stories. Our goal is to create spaces where individuals can be heard within a supportive community of artists. Creating art that tells stories of the human experience.