Lady T Recommends “Fencer”

Do you like stories about women’s sports? Do you like stories about women in competition with each other? Then check out Fencer, a short film-in-progress by Armen Perian in Glendale, California.

The description of the project is up at Kickstarter here. From the website:

“What happens if the thing you’re really good at isn’t what you want to dedicate your life to?

FENCER is a short film about having the courage to reject expectations set by talent. Our protagonist, Hayley, is the embodiment of the last-minute panic we all feel before important, life-changing events. A twenty-one year old junior at a prestigious East Coast university, Hayley Ashford is poised for a lifetime of success as a naturally gifted fencer. But not all is well days before a crucial, career-defining competition. As internal and external expectations mount, Hayley’s self doubt manifests itself in a very real hand tremor, which may be her downfall.

Will she have the courage to reconcile her abilities with her desires, or will she succumb to the pressure?

Why I’m recommending this project: I did junior varsity fencing in high school for three years. In my senior year, I decided that I was more likely to get a good part in the school play than make varsity fencing. I turned out to be right, but I still enjoyed my three years fencing and developed an appreciation of the sport. I don’t read or see a lot of stories about fencers and fencing.

I’m also intrigued by the concept of a female athlete who’s really, really good at her sport, yet isn’t sure she wants to make it her life’s calling. The question, “What happens if the thing you’re really good at isn’t what you want to dedicate your life to?” is always appealing to me, which may explain why I’m so fond of characters like Dottie Hinson and Britta Perry. Throw in another female character, a rival and competitor who has the passion that the lead character lacks, but doesn’t have the skill, and I’m hooked. I want to see this story.

Finally, I’m impressed with the cinematography and camera work in the video. I think this short film will demonstrate how exciting fencing can be.

Fencer is seeking $20,000 and has raised $1,490 so far, but there are still 25 days to fund the project. Please consider chipping in a few dollars, or spreading the message to other people who might be interested.