In solid, Native-centric drama FANCY DANCE — a project supported by the Sundance Institute across multiple development labs — writer-director Erica Tremblay gives audiences a glimpse into the Seneca-Cayuga people, focusing on a family devastated by the indifference of the world beyond the reservation.

Since her sister’s disappearance, Jax (Oscar-nominee Lily Gladstone) has cared for her niece Roki by scraping by on the Seneca-Cayuga reservation in Oklahoma. Every spare minute goes into finding her missing sister while also helping Roki prepare for an upcoming powwow. At the risk of Jax losing custody to Roki’s grandfather, Frank, the pair hit the road and scour the backcountry to track down Roki’s mother in time for the powwow. What begins as a search gradually turns into a far deeper investigation into the complexities and contradictions of Indigenous women moving through a colonized world while at the mercy of a failed justice system. With Isabel Deroy-Olson, Ryan Begay, Crystle Lightning, Audrey Wasilewski and Shea Whigham.

“‘Fancy Dance’ presents a broader narrative that emphasizes the connections that sustain families, communities and tribal nations, even when confronted with a legacy of disenfranchisement. Tremblay’s film validates the varied expressions of that experience with an affirming account of resilience and hope that sparkles with authentic performances, sensitive scripting and a genuine sense of place that resonate well after the final credits roll.” (The Hollywood Reporter)

“A strong debut undergirded by a palpably real emotional core and an un-showy sense of the reality of reservation life.” (New York Times)

“‘Fancy Dance’ has excellent performances, elevated by the script’s deft composition. There’s a remarkable nuance at play in this story of womanhood, parenthood, sexuality, community, and coming of age. It all feels so real and authentic.” (SlashFilm)

Sunday, July 7
Doors 3:00 pm | Film 3:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
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Friday, July 12
Doors 8:15 pm | Film 8:45 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
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Monday, July 15
Doors 6:00 pm | Film 6:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
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FANCY DANCE (Erica Tremblay, 2024  / 91 mins / 14A) Following her sister’s disappearance, Jax and her niece Roki must stick together. Desperate to keep what’s left of their family intact, Jax and Roki defy the law and hit the road on a journey to the Grand Nation Powwow in Oklahoma City.

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