Director, Ben-Alex Dupris explains the origin of the film. "This story is rooted in an incident where the first Two Spirit couple, Sean Snyder and Adrian Stevens, decided to enter a Sweetheart special competition at one big influential powwow. This had never been attempted before in modern tribal dance circles and they were disqualified for not adhering to the rule of the "one man, one woman" competition.  This led to a year of reflection, and thoughtful preparation for the next year where they courageously returned to the same powwow and were allowed to compete. This success story of resilience, and the action of love provided a talking point that spans decades of colonization with Indigenous communities.  Prior to the Catholic boarding school era, LGBTQIA were accepted and respected by Native people.  This story, and the spiritual renewal of our sacred Identities is one that leaves the audience with a greater understanding of our tribal lifeways. Within our hearts we are all one."

Sweetheart Dancers was directed by Ben-Alex Dupris, an enrolled member of the Colville Confederated Tribes in Washington State, where he grew up.  

Grand Jury Award, Best Short Documentary, OUT Fest, US, 2019

Grand Jury Award, Best Short Documentary, Audience Award, "Out On Film" Atlanta LQTBQ Film Fest, US, 2019

Best Short Film, Lumbee Native Film Festival, US, 2019

Competition, Best Short Film, New Orleans Film Festival, US, 2019

Competition, Best Short Film, Palm Springs International Film Festival, US, 2019

Competition, Best Short Film, American Indian Film Festival, US, 2019

Competition, Best Short Film, Mountain Film, US, 2019

Big Sky Documentary Film Festival, US, 2019

Seattle International Film Festival, US 2019

Cine Las Americas, US, 2019

Cucalorus Film Festival, US, 2019

Frameline, San Francisco International LGBTQ Film Festival, US, 2019

Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival, US, 2019