Elephant In The Room

I have recently written and directed a short spoken-word film called 'Elephant In The Room' after being commissioned by 'New Creatives', a talent development scheme supported by Arts Council England and BBC Art, delivered by Tyneside Cinema. My film ‘Elephant In The Room’ is inspired by a spoken word poem I had written to a MF Doom instrumental for a self-portrait documentary assignment at university. The poem is a personal reflection upon being mixed race and how this has shaped my outlook on life to believe that race is an invention which shouldn't be used to define people. This film addresses various personal experiences in which I have some way felt uncomfortable about how my identity has been perceived in relation to race. These are experiences which are often difficult to talk about, hence the films title: ‘Elephant In The Room’. This film also pays recognition to the amazing children’s book ‘Tusk, Tusk’ by David Mckee, a fable which tells the story of black and white elephants who live segregated, until their hatred for each others differences results in a revolutionary war. This book has stayed with me since it was read to me as a child. I feel it poignantly analogizes how humans instinctively feel the need to establish their own tribes in society, and these tribes must be formed in opposition to those who appear different from them. Although I hope this urges people to think about ongoing prejudices in society, this film is also intimate snapshot of my family who have taught me to celebrate and be proud of my mixed heritage.