Hidden Kingdom is a docudrama web series that explores the lives of unique individuals living in unexpected communities. In each episode, we follow a new character who serves as a key into unseen worlds that exist among us.
Hidden Kingdom follows five different dancers in New York to reveal the rich terrain of our shared human desires. Blending elements of the surreal with the intimacy of a diary, Hidden Kingdom immerses the viewer in a visual landscape of movement and raw emotion: a body twists, a window becomes a portal, a curtain is lifted back to show us something new, or something familiar.
The viewer is introduced to Regine, in Central America, deepening her connection to the Yoruba religion and movement, as she uncovers truths to understanding her roots. The setting is then moved to Yamini, bearing the weight of pushing and pulling at tradition and western ideals, carving a fundamental new path for herself. Next brings Karon, in a dark basement, limbs flexing in fierce battle—then suddenly in a tender embrace with his goddaughter, the expression of duality. The curtains open then to ballerino Kouadio, exploring new realms of himself by way of experimentation and various art forms. And lastly, Smarlin, making the ultimate sacrifice to leave her family in the Dominican Republic and follow her calling in New York City.
Through sound and gesture, voice and memory, what emerges is a series of stories, at once singular and universal, that move through fear, loss, and longing to find what’s waiting on the other side.
Directed By
Sacred Pact
Produced By
Emily Backerman
Production Company
Sacred Pact Films
Artwork & Graphic Designer
Isabel Von Der Ahe
Composer
Taaj Al-Khaliq
Edited by
Sacred Pact
Colorist
Addison Post
Final Mix
Hayley Wagner
