Announcement // ‘Strike a Pose’: Film Screening, Q&A and Secret Voguing After Party

Article by Julianne Cordray // Aug. 9, 2016

In an exclusive open air screening, the Berlin Film Society will present ‘Strike a Pose’ – a follow-up documentary revealing the dramatic stories of seven dancers that had joined Madonna‘s controversial world tour in 1990; and whose journey had been captured in the documentary ‘Truth or Dare’, which became a pop cultural emblem for gay rights and freedom of expression. Directed by Ester Gould and Reijer Zwaan, the film had its premiere at this year’s Berlinale, and was the recipient of the second place Panorama Audience Award.

The young dancers that accompanied Madonna on her ‘Blond Ambition’ tour 25 years ago were documented in a film that brought the pop star’s stand on gay rights and AIDS awareness to public attention, and positioned the dancers themselves as role models of self-empowerment. At the time, it was the highest-grossing documentary ever. It highlighted the lives of the backup dancers on and off stage, exploring queer life and inspiring many through their openness. Now, in ‘Strike a Pose’, the struggles faced by these dancers—as they have tried to negotiate their way through the liberated life they came to symbolize—are illuminated in intimate though universal stories surrounding the realization of self-expression and finding self-acceptance when fear of others’ judgement threatens to hold you back.

There will be a Q&A with the film directors after the screening, followed by a Secret Kiki Ball and after party.