My Own (2021)
A 12-minute short film where dance becomes the language of identity, following Bianca's journey through ballet and nonbinary self-discovery.
My Own - Movie Information
- Original Title: My Own
- Release Year: 2021
- Directed by: Courtney Hope Thérond
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Runtime: 12m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Production Countries: United States of America
My Own - Plot
This short film tells the story of Bianca, a nonbinary person, struggling to find the place for gender fluidity within the rigid world of ballet. Bianca finds their own voice, in this dance-filled rumination on coming out, not as one thing or another, but as something in between.
Where to Watch My Own
Looking for where to watch My Own?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
My Own - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Courtney Hope Thérond
Main Cast
- Shannon Gibbs
- Kit DeZolt
- Joanne Ainsworth
- Helena Thordal Christensen
- Leslie Stevens
Writers
- Shannon Gibbs
Producers
- Shannon Gibbs
- Allison Powell
My Own - FAQs
What is My Own about?
My Own follows Bianca, a nonbinary dancer caught between self-expression and the strict traditions of ballet. Through movement and quiet introspection, the short film explores what it means to come out not as one fixed identity, but as something beautifully in between — a meditation on gender fluidity told through dance.
Is My Own a short film or feature?
My Own is a short film with a runtime of just 12 minutes. Despite its brevity, it packs a meaningful emotional punch, using dance as its primary language to explore nonbinary identity and the tension between personal truth and institutional expectation in the world of ballet.
Who plays Bianca in My Own?
Shannon Gibbs plays Bianca, the nonbinary central character navigating gender identity within the ballet world. Gibbs also wrote the screenplay, bringing a deeply personal creative investment to the role. The supporting cast includes Kit DeZolt, Joanne Ainsworth, Helena Thordal Christensen, and Leslie Stevens.
How does ballet shape the story of My Own?
Ballet is both the setting and the metaphor at the heart of My Own. Its rigid gender conventions — the strict divide between male and female roles — create the central tension Bianca faces. Dance becomes the language through which Bianca ultimately claims their identity, turning the art form into a space of liberation rather than constraint.
Who directed and wrote My Own?
My Own was directed by Courtney Hope Thérond and written by Shannon Gibbs, who also stars as Bianca. The film was produced by Shannon Gibbs and Allison Powell. Editor Erik Vogt-Nilsen also contributed to shaping the final film.
What themes does My Own explore?
My Own digs into themes of gender identity, self-discovery, and the courage it takes to exist outside binary categories. It also examines institutional rigidity — how traditional art forms like ballet can both inspire and suppress — and the quiet, personal act of coming out on your own terms.
What films are similar to My Own?
If My Own resonated with you, check out Center Stage (2000), The Red Shoes (1948), Feel the Beat (2020), and Appropriate Behavior (2015). For more stories exploring nonbinary and LGBTQ+ identity, 3 Generations (2016) and Fitting In (2024) are well worth your time.
When was My Own released?
My Own had its release on March 26, 2021. The film was produced in the United States and represents an intimate, independently crafted work that brings a fresh, personal perspective to conversations around gender identity and the performing arts.
More About My Own
Explore further details about My Own on these trusted resources.