In writer-director Sally Lomidze’s short film, Behind the Pose, Masha (Ksena Samborska) is a 16-year-old model from Eastern Europe living in a cramped New York apartment. She finds a rare moment of serenity on a city sidewalk, quietly eating a candy bar. Her agent and handler, Katerina (Natalia Volkodaeva), discovers the stash and comes down hard on her, banning Masha from the upcoming photoshoot and warning that if she blows her last chance, she’ll be sent back to Moldova and her contract will be over.
Not wanting to return home, Masha turns to Freddy (Rick Irwin), Katerina’s husband, and begs him to take photos of her at home—anything she can use to show she’s serious and ready. Freddy agrees, and their improvised shoot starts to feel like a real fashion set, giving Masha a rush of confidence. As the session progresses, boundaries are crossed.
“…discovers the stash and comes down hard on her, banning Masha from the upcoming photoshoot…”
Behind the Pose is a powerful short film about the lengths one will go to for a better life, and the people who will exploit you along the way, under the illusion that they can give you that better life. As Masha, Ksena Samborska is at the center of this tale. She gives an incredible performance right up to that final emotional moment. It’s a story about the groomed and the groomer—the moment you realize you took the bait and there’s no turning back.
Lomidze nails the tone and setting brilliantly. There were moments I wanted Behind the Pose to look more glamorous, but then I realized there’s nothing glamorous about this world, especially for exploited immigrants. This is definitely not America’s Next Top Model.
"…a powerful short film..."
