Hiplet: Because We Can
SPECIAL INTEREST DOCUMENTARY
Directed by Addison Wright
8 min. Documentary Short
I found Hiplet: Because We Can to be an interesting and visually compelling short. While it sometimes felt promotional in tone, its fusion of ballet pointe technique with hip-hop and urban dance styles—set to engaging music video visuals—is undeniably watchable. It’s a culturally significant piece, especially for audiences interested in dance documentaries, Black culture in the arts, and innovative performance styles.
My Take: Watchable
Film Description:
Created with the intention to inspire young Black women and men, this short film brings the Hiplet ballerinas to center stage, showcasing how they blend classical pointe ballet with hip-hop and urban dance. The film highlights these young, gifted Black dancers as they navigate and overcome adversity both online and within the dance community, and how they’re actively pushing cultural boundaries through performance.
Shot on Chicago’s South Side at the historic Grand Ballroom (originally the Cinderella Ballroom, opened in 1923), the setting adds an evocative backdrop to this story of artistry and resilience.
FOLLOW THE FILMMAKER: addisonjwright.com
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Filed under categories: Short Film, Short Film Review, Documentary, Music Video Short, Hiplet, Dance Documentary, Black Culture, Chicago Arts