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Film short abstract:

An experimental journey into childhood memories, reclaiming power for the seven-year-old self.

Film long abstract:

A Guide to Dance for Adult Children is an experimental journey through the lens of VHS home movies, delving into the childhood memories of the director and revealing dance not merely as a means of expression but also as a profound manifestation of existence itself.

A video camera captures young Sadaf dancing freely and recklessly at various family gatherings. We witness Sadaf growing up, and her movements becoming increasingly sophisticated. We see how music and dance play an important role in her life. However, all of this can only happen within the private walls of her home, as it is strictly forbidden for women to sing or dance in public.

The footage offers a precious glimpse into this intimate world of a woman in Iran. Then there is a clear turning point: we see Sadaf putting on the hijab. The family camera documents the day of her entry into a school with gender segregation, where girls are forced to wear the hijab from the age of six. But as fate would have it, Sadaf is expelled from class due to her passionate love for dancing.

At this juncture, the story creatively blends memory with imagination. By doing so, it avoids exaggerated depictions and instead focuses on restoring a sense of agency and power to seven-year-old Sadaf and her classmates. Through this imaginative lens, we see a reimagined version of events where Sadaf's spirit and individuality are celebrated, offering a narrative that challenges and transcends stereotypical portrayals.