Private Project

Split Focus

"Split Focus" is a captivating dance film that delves into the intricate relationship between self-perception and external projection. Through mesmerizing shadow play, the film explores images of spirit and internal feelings versus outward appearances, prompting viewers to question which aspect demands more attention— the dancer herself or her shadow. Visually poetic, it offers a compelling examination of how we project ourselves into the world and the duality of inner and outer identities.

  • Cherie Carson
    Director
    Between River Rocks and Sand, Bad, Knowing Each Other, Pressure, Water Spirit, Sequoia Spirits
  • Cherie Carson
    Producer
    Water Dreams, AloneTogether, Between River Rocks and Sand, Bad, Knowing Each Other, Pressure, Water Spirit, Sequoia Spirits
  • KC Hyland
    Key Cast
    "soloist dancer"
  • Micha Dunston
    cinematographer/ camera / lighting / editor
  • Ilja Sarro
    1st Assistant Camera
  • Dan Cantrell
    music
  • Project Type:
    Experimental, Short
  • Runtime:
    5 minutes 38 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    June 17, 2025
  • Production Budget:
    5,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
Director Biography - Cherie Carson

Artistic Director/ Choreographer / Producer/ Director/ Visionary / Collaborator / Interdisciplinary Artist

Cherie Carson created her first dance film in 1992, a finalist for the Robert Bennett Award in Los Angeles that year. She choreographs dances that have been performed in a planetarium, on stilts, on rollerblades, in sculpture gardens, reflection pools, in a dress of 11 yards, on a bungee cord hanging from a Banyan tree, on trapeze, tissu, slings, rope and harness, and invented equipment. Cherie has created more than 50 aerial pieces. This is Cherie's 8th dance film created since 2020. Those films, collectively, have garnered 30 awards from festivals around the world. Cherie currently resides in the San Francisco Bay Area and is Artistic Director of UpSwing Aerial Dance Company, based in Berkeley, California.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

I explore the layers of human identity and emotion through movement and visual storytelling.

My choreography and filmmaking are driven by a desire to illuminate the unseen forces that shape our understanding of ourselves and others. "Split Focus" is a dialogue between the physical body and its shadow, using dance and shadow play as a metaphor for the internal and external worlds we inhabit.

I look to challenge perceptions, create imagery that encourages viewers to reflect on the projections, masks, and truths that define us. With a background rooted in both choreography and award-winning filmmaking, I strive to craft immersive, visually compelling narratives that resonate on a visceral level—highlighting the beauty, complexity, and often unseen depths of the human spirit.