JUST DANCE: BACK BEAT

Just Dance: Back Beat

A slick and stylish doc showcasing how Black kinship is supercharging the hip hop revolution

Weaving together dance and candid conversations, Back Beat illuminates the impact of cultural appropriation and the shared experiences of professional Black dancers. Director Tajana B-Williams explores these often private conversations about the dance industry and its intersection with Black culture and mainstream media.

“Although hip hop was birthed from Black oppression, it has evolved to be a joyous art form that inspires, moves, and motivates people worldwide,” says the director, whose film comes with heavy servings of Black joy.

Tajana’s directing style is heavily influenced by her professional dance career. Having worked for many years with artists such as Beyoncé and Janelle Monáe, she has a unique insight into the resilience that’s required to be a commercial dancer.

“Unlike the culture of ballet or contemporary dance, hip hop dancers struggle to make a living as more than just background props,” Williams’ accompanying statement reads. “Rarely are they showcased for their headlining skills and artistry outside of a music video or live tour for a recording artist.”

Back Beat gives a voice to a global community of performers through razor-sharp choreography and original storytelling. Through the exemplar of Los Angeles’ pioneering Black movement creatives and choreographers, Back Beat pushes audiences to look beyond social media exploitation culture and see how hip hop can empower a community.

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