5th EDITION 23-26.09.2021
Dressing the body
Digital video platform NOWNESS reveals the empowering potential of fashion in a global programme of short films. Moving between Chengdu and Sardinia, Amman and Texas, this curation is a celebration of self-styled identities and the cultural codes stitched into our clothes.
Portrait of a Tokyo Rockabilly
Director / James Partridge
Country / Japan, United Kingtom
Year / 2017
Runtime / 6'
One of the last of Tokyo’s Rockabillys, Johnny Jeana keeps 50s Americana alive in the heart of Tokyo. In this film, we delve into Japan’s Rockabilly culture and Johnny’s dreams of superstardom.
The Fabric of You
Director / Josephine Lohoar Self
Country / USA
Year / 2019
Runtime / 13'
Set in the Bronx, in the era of 1950s McCarthyism, everybody wants to look the same. Michael a gay, twenty-something-year old mouse, hides his true identity while he works as a tailor. When Isaac enters the shop one day he offers the escapism and love Michael craves. In Michael’s confined apartment, he becomes tormented by the memories of Isaac’s tragic death. Michael’s memories and flashbacks are triggered when he notices Isaac’s jacket draped on the back of a chair. Haunted by the solace Isaac once offered, he struggles to come to terms with his loss.
Chicano
Director / Louis Ellison & Jacob Hodgkinson
Country / USA, Japan
Year / 2016
Runtime / 7' 31"
Chicano is an exploration of the similarities and differences between Chicano culture in Americaand Japan, and how the scene is not all about gang culture, but has a deep-seated root in family values.
Can't Stop Me Anymore
Director / Liudmila Bredikhina & Agnès Giard
Country /
Year / 2020
Runtime / 10'
This short film is a poetic tribute to the desired identities. Can’t Stop “Me” Anymore is a synthetic parade of people, virtual beings, and even robots, who changed into characters – made from videos on YouTube and Twitter – reflecting the aspirations and creativity of those involved in the social networks. Fashion, digital, virtual, or physical, enter the realm of the imaginary as individuals become more than human, as they become their desired “me.”
Mr Zoot Suit
Director / Chan'Cellore Makanjuola
Country / USA
Year / 2018
Runtime / 16' 13"
After putting his dreams on hold, a university housekeeping supervisor follows his passion for dancing and educating others about the history of the zoot suit.
Beauty Boys
Director / Florent Gouelou
Country / France
Year / 2020
Runtime / 17'
In a small village, Leo, 17 years-old, has a strong taste for make-up. His big brother, Jules, who fears to be laughed at, stands against this passion. On the night of the open stage, Leo shows up in full drag…