Unzipped
Jenna M.
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Both on social media and in my school community, I constantly hear people make assumptions about a person’s sexuality, gender identity, or even character based upon the way that they dress. Stereotypical, traditional gender roles make it difficult for many people to have confidence in their true style. It is 2021, yet some firmly and publicly express their opinion on what exactly men and women should wear, therefore dictating what role they should play in society.
The pandemic played a crucial role in teens’ identities throughout the past year and a half. Social media movements both encouraged individuality and self-confidence while enforcing more and more stereotypes. Returning to in-person learning this Fall has been a shock to me. As I look around the classroom, I see much more individuality and unique styles than I did before the pandemic. However, I also overhear students discussing which articles of clothing “make someone queer.”
This observation inspired me. As someone whose style has also changed from before quarantine, I wanted to tell a story that depicts the pressure one faces from society, even family, while also celebrating the confidence it takes to overcome that pressure.
“Unzipped,” is a story produced, written, directed, filmed, and edited by me, Jenna M., with the help of my assistant director, Sadie R. It was an entirely youth-produced project, with both our composer, Ryan F., and lead actor, Ronan F., under 18 and all enrolled in the same public high school. Throughout the course of a month, we collaborated in all phases of production, finding locations, filming early in the morning, and reviewing rough cuts.
Beginning in the first scene of the film, the main character reveals an interest in reading a traditionally feminine magazine as opposed to a typically masculine one, but also indicates their reason for keeping it concealed. They check if their family is looking before indulging, watching their mother and sister giggle over flowers and father comparing cases of beer. Through these actions and everyone’s clothing, it is clear that their family adheres to stereotypical gender roles. After taking the Vogue Magazine and becoming enamored by a particular dress, the main character sets out on a mission to recreate it for themself. On their journey to revealing their true gender expression, I used creative elements to convey their feelings. Set design like calendar dates signifies the end of the year and countdown to a New Year, a transitional period of reinvention. Throughout the film, many unfamiliar and uncomfortable environments are tinted colder, while more personal and safe environments are warmer.
The film purposely does not include any dialogue or specifics about sexual orientation or gender identity. By focusing solely on gender expression through fashion and not affirming a certain characteristic about the main character, it makes no assumptions or connections between expression and identity.
Throughout the project, I have both improved my technical and collaborative skills while sharing a story that I hope will change the perspectives of many on the topic of gender expression."
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As an introvert, my camera allows me to connect with my community. Through film and photography, I express my love for visuals, problem-solving, and social justice while strengthening my collaboration and social skills. Finding ways to lead creatively has inspired me to do the same as a filmmaker.
