Alicia Benjamin: A Cinematic Voice for Black Women
Introduction to a New Filmmaker
Charlotte’s burgeoning film scene has a new voice in local filmmaker Alicia Benjamin. With her documentary debut, “Dreams Float Around Us,” Benjamin explores the nuanced concerns of Black women navigating a complex political landscape during the second Trump administration. Through her lens, she captures the heartfelt experiences and aspirations of this often-overlooked demographic.
The Inspiration Behind the Film
In a time marked by political division and anxiety, Benjamin felt a compelling urgency to document the feelings shared by many Black women. “All the crazy policies and actions of the current administration cause so much confusion and unease,” she remarked, highlighting the trauma and disillusionment spelled out in the aftermath of the 2024 presidential election. Benjamin aimed to harness these emotions into a creative narrative that resonates deeply.
Capturing Authentic Voices
Benjamin’s documentary features eight Black women from various backgrounds, each answering the poignant question: “How does it feel to be a Black woman in 2025?” Their candid discussions reveal a tapestry of triumphs, fears, and hopes, each story reflecting the broader experience of Black womanhood during tumultuous times. “They represent so many of us,” Benjamin highlighted, emphasizing the common threads in their diverse narratives.
A Journey Rooted in Passion
Benjamin’s passion for storytelling began in her childhood and evolved through her education in journalism at the University of Maryland and further studies in theater and screenwriting at Hunter College. While her career encompassed journalism and theater, ultimately, it was a brief encounter with Tommy Nichols, founder of the Charlotte Black Film Festival, that reignited her interest in documentary filmmaking.
From Concept to Reality
Initially apprehensive but driven by her vision, Benjamin applied for a micro-grant to produce her film. “I wasn’t prepared for much of any of the documentary filmmaking process,” she candidly admitted. Yet, her tenacity shone through as she dove into a world of online tutorials, diligently learning the ropes of film production and filming primarily with her iPhone.
The Filming Process
Driven by the urgency to explore women’s experiences, Benjamin scoured the Charlotte area for participants ranging from a 22-year-old college student to an 80-year-old entrepreneur. Without a traditional script, she captured their raw emotions and diverse perspectives, weaving together their stories into a cohesive narrative. After filming, she meticulously organized her footage, crafting a visual script with the help of video editor Bryan Archilla, who played a crucial role in shaping the final product.
Premiering to Acclaim
“Dreams Float Around Us” debuted at the Charlotte Black Film Festival in June, followed by being selected for the Durham Region International Black Diversity Film Festival in Ontario. Benjamin expressed her joy at the film’s reception, particularly noting its resonance with audiences far beyond her local community.
A Humble Outlook
Despite her growing success, Benjamin remains grounded. Keenly aware of the significant contributions from celebrated filmmakers like Ava Duvernay and Gina Prince-Bythewood, she describes herself modestly as “a tiny little worm, crawling in the dirt, seeking information.” This humility underscores her dedication to the craft and her mission to uplift voices within the Black community.
Future Aspirations
As she continues to bask in the film’s early success, Benjamin looks ahead to her next project—a short narrative film that she hopes to direct. “I’ve really always dreamed of directing fictional films,” she confessed, indicating a shift in focus while maintaining her commitment to storytelling that highlights the Black experience.
Availability of the Film
Currently, “Dreams Float Around Us” is not available on social media due to festival submission restrictions. However, Benjamin is actively pursuing opportunities for additional screenings and encourages interested viewers to connect with her through Instagram (@ramalicia) for updates.
Reflection on Her Work
“I am very proud of the film I made,” Benjamin affirmed, a testament to her determination and passion for shedding light on the experiences of Black women in our society. Through her art, she crafts not only a narrative of struggle but also one of resilience, hope, and communal strength.