“Fancy Dance” is a 2023 American drama film directed by Erica Tremblay. This film marks her debut as a feature film director. The movie stars Lily Gladstone, Isabel DeRoy-Olson, and Shea Whigham. The film was first shown at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival on January 20, 2023. It had a limited release in the United States starting June 21, 2024, and later became available for streaming on Apple TV+ from June 28, 2024.
The film tells the story of a Native American woman who, after her sister goes missing, kidnaps her niece from the child’s white grandparents. She then travels to a state powwow, hoping to keep her remaining family together.
In December 2020, the screenplay for “Fancy Dance” was chosen for The Indigenous List, which highlights Native American writers. It was also included in the Cannes Screenplay List in May 2022. Erica Tremblay was announced as the director in August 2022, with Confluential Films and Tommy Oliver as producers. Filming began in August 2022 and took place in various locations in Oklahoma.
Where was “Fancy Dance” Filmed?
The main filming for “Fancy Dance” was done in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This city is important to the film because it is part of Cherokee land. The film’s story is connected to this area, making it a fitting location.
Circle Cinema: One of the places featured in the film is Circle Cinema. This is a special theater in Tulsa where director Erica Tremblay held a screening of the film. It is a notable location for fans and supporters of the film.
Southwest Trading Company: Another location is Southwest Trading Company, an Indigenous-owned store in Tulsa. This store sells art, blankets, jewelry, and other gifts. It is an important spot in the Native American community and was featured in the film.
Living Kitchen: The film also includes scenes from Living Kitchen, a farm located in Depew. Living Kitchen is known for hosting themed community dinners. This location adds a touch of local culture and community spirit to the film.
Redstick Gallery: Redstick Gallery, located in Okmulgee, is another important location. This Indigenous-owned store sells artwork and jewelry made by Native artists. It represents the rich cultural heritage featured in the film.
Director’s Choice: Erica Tremblay, who is from Oklahoma, chose to film “Fancy Dance” in her home state. She wanted to make the film where she feels most supported. Many of the crew members were Indigenous or from Oklahoma, adding authenticity and local insight to the production.
“Fancy Dance” was filmed in various significant locations in Oklahoma, including Tulsa, Circle Cinema, Southwest Trading Company, Living Kitchen, and Redstick Gallery. These places not only set the scene for the film but also reflect the cultural and personal connections of the director, Erica Tremblay. The choice of locations adds depth and authenticity to the film’s portrayal of Native American life and heritage.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Fancy Dance
Q: Where was “Fancy Dance” filmed?
A: “Fancy Dance” was filmed primarily in Tulsa, Oklahoma, which is part of Cherokee land. The film also features scenes from Circle Cinema, Southwest Trading Company, Living Kitchen in Depew, and Redstick Gallery in Okmulgee. These locations were chosen to highlight the cultural and community aspects of the story.
Q: When did filming for “Fancy Dance” take place?
A: Filming for “Fancy Dance” began in August 2022 and was completed in the same year. The production took place on location in Oklahoma, capturing the essence of the story’s setting.
Q: When did “Fancy Dance” premiere?
A: “Fancy Dance” premiered at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival on January 20, 2023. This was the film’s first public showing and introduced it to critics and audiences.
Q: When was “Fancy Dance” released to theaters and streaming?
A: The film had a limited theatrical release in the United States starting on June 21, 2024. It became available for streaming on Apple TV+ starting June 28, 2024.
Q: Why were the filming locations in Oklahoma chosen for “Fancy Dance”?
A: The filming locations in Oklahoma were chosen because director Erica Tremblay is from Oklahoma and wanted to film in her home state. The locations also provide an authentic representation of Native American culture and community, which is central to the film’s story.
