Experiencing Interruptions?

THE YOU I SEE

A 7 minute dance for camera work created in response to the recent devastating deaths of Alton Sterling, Philando Castile, and Dallas Police Officers Lorne Ahrens, Michael Smith, Michael Krol, Patrick Zamarripa, and Brent Thompson, THE YOU I SEE explores the contrast between two people viewing each other through the removed standpoint of a camera lens and two people experiencing one another through the intimate act of contact improvisation. Proximity, focus, music, and timing are utilized throughout the film to highlight and challenge the use of stereotypes and biases when interacting with those around us.

  • Samantha Russell
    Director
    Artefact
  • Samantha Russell
    Key Cast
  • Gerard Gore
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Experimental, Music Video, Short, Other
  • Runtime:
    7 minutes 6 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    August 2, 2016
  • Production Budget:
    0 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Samantha Russell

Recently graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a degree in Dance Performance and Choreography, Samantha lives in Edmond, Oklahoma where she is currently teaching, performing, and choreographing. While at USM Samantha was awarded a $1,500 grant by the Eagle Scholar Program for Undergraduate Research to create a Dance for Film, ARTEFACT, which was later selected to be presented in the Juried Showcase at USM's 2016 Undergraduate Research Symposium. Samantha was also recognized by her department for "Outstanding Junior" and "Most Memorable Senior Piece". Samantha is thankful for family and friends who continuously support her art.

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Director Statement

My hope is that, as you watch THE YOU I SEE, you will be challenged in the way you view those around you. What are you focusing on? What are you filtering out? Are you viewing the whole picture or just a part? Making this film changed the way I see. After watching it, I hope you can say the same.