The Gaze 2021
"An act of seeing. Of seeing THEM."
Barry Jenkins' *The Gaze (2021)* explores the unspoken power of perception through a visually arresting short film that challenges audiences to confront their own gaze.
Director: Barry Jenkins
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Gaze (2021) about?
This short drama by Barry Jenkins examines the act of seeing as both an empowering and intrusive force, challenging audiences to reflect on who gets to be seen—and who decides what we see. Through minimal dialogue and striking imagery, the film dissects the Black gaze, turning the camera on society's unspoken biases.
Who directed The Gaze?
Barry Jenkins, the acclaimed director behind *Moonlight* and *If Beale Street Could Talk*, helms *The Gaze*.
Who stars in The Gaze?
The film features Frank Oakley III, Thuso Mbedu, Aaron Pierre, Lucius Baston, and Mychal-Bella Bowman in its core cast.
Is The Gaze (2021) worth watching?
With its sharp thematic focus and Jenkins' signature visual style, *The Gaze* is a rewarding experience for fans of contemplative cinema. While it's a short film, its impact lingers, making it a must-watch for those interested in the intersection of art and social commentary.
How long is The Gaze?
The Gaze (2021) runs for 52 minutes.
About The Gaze (2021) — Barry Jenkins' bold short film on seeing and being seen
Barry Jenkins' *The Gaze (2021)* explores the unspoken power of perception through a visually arresting short film that challenges audiences to confront their own gaze. Stripping cinema down to its core, Jenkins crafts a meditative experience where the act of seeing becomes the central narrative, framing the world through a lens rarely examined in modern filmmaking. The story unfolds with quiet intensity, dissecting themes of identity, representation, and the gaze itself—both as an intimate act and a societal construct. With a runtime of just 52 minutes, the film maintains a deliberate pace, immersing viewers in a dialogue that feels as personal as it is universal.
Frank Oakley III, Thuso Mbedu, and Aaron Pierre lead the cast, each embodying characters who navigate a world where visibility is both a privilege and a burden. The drama unfolds with a stark, poetic visual style that mirrors the emotional weight of its themes. Jenkins, known for his lyrical storytelling in *Moonlight* and *If Beale Street Could Talk*, turns *The Gaze* into a cinematic manifesto—an answer to a question seldom posed but deeply felt.