Softer (2021)

Softer (2021) poster

Softer examines the demands of "softening" that are requested of Black women's bodies in society---from job prospects to romantic ones---be that in their voice, their manners, and, critically, their hair. The experimental short plays upon the grooming rituals of softening that are terrifyingly rough through a recreation of a permanent wave machine produced perm (popular in the 1930s-1950s). The short mediates on the historical ways in which Black women have tried to answer this demand on softness through respectable appearance and behavior.

Director: Ayanna Dozier
Runtime: 5 min
Release Date:
Country: United States of America
Original Language: en
More Films by Director: Ayanna Dozier

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Softer about?
Softer examines the demands of "softening" that are requested of Black women's bodies in society---from job prospects to romantic ones---be that in their voice, their manners, and, critically, their hair. The experimental short plays upon the grooming rituals of softening that are terrifyingly rough through a recreation of a permanent wave machine produced perm (popular in the 1930s-1950s). The short mediates on the historical ways in which Black women have tried to answer this demand on softness through respectable appearance and behavior.
Who directed Softer?
Softer was directed by Ayanna Dozier.
How long is Softer?
Softer has a runtime of 5m (5 minutes).
Where was Softer produced?
Softer was produced in United States of America.