The Dance

In this heartwarming short film, a loving and protective mother receives some troubling news from a gossiping parent - her child is planning to attend a high school dance with a teen who has a questionable reputation. Overwhelmed by concern, the mother confronts her child about the situation. Through this experience, the mother learns to trust and accept her child's choices. Embracing the value of diversity and the importance of acceptance, this touching story also explores themes of parental anxiety, the complexities of adolescent relationships, and the power of love and understanding.

  • Sandy Minh Abley
    Director
  • Sandy Minh Abley
    Writer
  • Sandy Minh Abley
    Producer
  • Sandy Minh Abley
    Key Cast
    "Kelly"
    How To Murder Your Husband (LifeTime), The Good Doctor (ABC), Resident Alien (SyFy)
  • Viola Abley
    Key Cast
    "Isabel"
    Scaredy Cats (Netflix), Schmigadoon! (AppleTV+), Noelle (Disney+), Pinecone & Pony (AppleTV+)
  • Alicia Love Read
    Key Cast
    "Larissa"
    Pam, Keeper, The Sunflower Dreams
  • Ellen Drysdale
    Key Cast
    "Alex"
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Comedy, Drama, Dramady, Asian, Women, Mothers, Children, Teen, LGBTQ+
  • Runtime:
    8 minutes 39 seconds
  • Production Budget:
    2,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Canada
  • Country of Filming:
    Canada
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Sandy Minh Abley

Director, writer and producer, Sandy Minh Abley, is a Vietnamese refugee who overcame barriers to become a Canadian lawyer; she recently ventured into the world of acting. Her first network role was on "The Good Doctor”. Her acting career highlight to date is working with Cybill Shepherd. In the autumn of 2022, she took a leap of faith and enrolled in an online short film workshop, marking the beginning of her journey as a filmmaker. Her debut project, titled "The Dance" is a heartfelt short film that holds a special place in her heart. The inspiration behind this project stems from her own child, Viola Abley, a talented performer known for her diverse circle of friends.

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Director Statement

Sandy's motivation to create "The Dance" comes from witnessing the remarkable inclusivity demonstrated by the younger generation. She finds solace in the fact that today's youth wholeheartedly embrace individuals from various cultural backgrounds, abilities, and orientations. By embracing her newfound passion for acting and filmmaking, Sandy Minh Abley showcases the resilience and determination that define her life's journey. Her story not only highlights her own personal growth and artistic pursuits but also serves as a testament to the power of unity and understanding in a welcoming multicultural society.