‘MERDE’ is a thesis short documentary film from students of
Nanyang Technological University’s School of Art, Design and Media.
The concept of having one ‘passion’ that you’re made to do can be incredibly daunting, and failing at that can feel soul-crushing, especially when your peers are excelling.
‘MERDE’ follows three current and former ballerinas who all started from the same ballet studio, but are all in very different places in life now, exploring what ‘failure’ means to them in their relationship with ballet. Comparing our three ballerinas, we explore how that’s shaped them and how they’ve bounced back.
It’s a bittersweet concept, comparing what is versus what could have been if we ‘succeeded’.
the crew
the cast
“i've always been scared of the idea of being without ambition. giving up on failed passions, being told i'm "wasting time", when I now know that my failures are what led to my place in life now, where what i'm doing fits my skin properly. i hope people can watch this film and know that there is no shame in failing or not being the best.”
- Antonia Winn
DirectorProducer
“quoting from one of my favourite films in recent years, perfect days, “next time is next time. now is now.” MERDE is not just a reminder to stay present but also a culmination of years of doubt and questions that I’ve had of myself. it is okay if you feel left behind and i hope through the lens of this film, it brings comfort to people.”
- Joanne Leong
Director of PhotographyEditor
Co-Producer
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Nanyang Technological University
School of Art, Design and Media
81 Nanyang Dr, Singapore 637458
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