Film Review. Domino Effect: The Power of Holding Space and Reclaiming Identity.

It’s like living in different facades—you can never really be who you are.
By Rachel Robles
Domino Effect Girls' Voices Now - Women's Voices Now

The Film.

The Film Review.

Domino Effect is a moving documentary through the lens of filmmakers Yara Cruz, Jaqueline Mendez, Sydney Johnson, and Alyn Mayoral, revealing the injustices faced by women of color. Most often, it stems from prejudiced ideals imposed by society on how they should act. These young filmmakers give voices to their community and shed light on stories that reveal how conforming to societal expectations affects both their identity and sense of self. Labeled simply based on their skin color, the documentary examines what it means to be a person of color in America, especially a woman. The dual challenges of race and gender combine to create expectations that force women of color to act in certain ways to fit societal norms.

The documentary highlights these issues through personal experiences shared by the filmmakers. Many recount stories of discrimination, with some being directly subjected to racist remarks about their skin color or identity by white individuals. These harmful ideals continue to plague society and grow exponentially. As the filmmakers explain, it is a domino effect. Expectations force women of color to live lives designed to make others feel safe rather than prioritizing their own well-being. One filmmaker shares this struggle by stating: 

“If you’re angry, you’re perceived as an angry Black woman. If you’re too assertive, you can’t be too assertive. You can’t be too smart. It’s like living in different facades—you can never really be who you are. You’re always trying to fit into someone else’s image of what you have to be.” 

The conversation continues by emphasizing how stereotyping is toxic to an individual’s ability to express their true identity. This is where the need to break free from these societal boxes and step into one’s own individuality becomes a central theme in the documentary.

The film also provides actionable advice for change, featuring insights from Asha Dahya, founder of Girl Talk HQ, and Dr. Charmain Jack, founder and CEO of InnoPsych. They encourage viewers to challenge societal expectations and reclaim their identity. The film addresses the damaging effects of patriarchal and racist ideals on the self-perception of women of color, urging a shift in perspective to foster self-love and empowerment. Through this journey, the filmmakers guide viewers toward building a strong foundation of self-worth and initiating meaningful change for the better.

Visually, the film has an intimate tone. Made during the COVID-19 pandemic, many clips consist of interviews with the filmmakers or special guests. This style makes viewers feel like they are part of the conversation rather than strangers. The communal experience fosters a safe space for sharing thoughts and stories, adding to the film’s profound impact

As a woman of color, this was a transformative watch. Having my own personal experiences with subtle racism, I felt inspired to reclaim who I am. By the end of the documentary, audiences are left with positive reinforcement on how to create change and improve their mental well-being. This is a documentary I wholeheartedly encourage audiences to watch. It’s a powerful story made by upcoming filmmakers. Watch the documentary Domino Effect. to delve into the power of holding space for voices that challenge social norms and stereotypes. 

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Aude Lorde
Mitchell, Jack, photographer. Audre Lorde. 1983, Getty Images. Voices of a People’s History of the United States, edited by Howard Zinn and Anthony Arnove, Seven Stories Press, 2004

“When we speak, we are afraid our words will not be heard or welcomed. But when we are silent, we are still afraid. So it is better to speak.”

Audre Lorde

Film Review: The Fight for Women's Reproductive Rights in El Salvador

Meet The Author.

Rachel Robles is a Latinx communications major at CSUF and WVN Film Collection intern through the LA County internship program. She has directed films like Para Siempre to amplify marginalized voices and is dedicated to crafting impactful narratives.

2025 Film Festival!

A women’s rights documentary film festival for emerging filmmakers.

Stay Informed with our Newsletter.

Receive exclusive invitations to our programs; free films to watch from free film collection Voices For Change; news about gender equality around the world; and access to our partners’ programs.

Read posts related
to this topic

Women’s Voices Now is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization

46-E Peninsula Center
Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274
+1.424.247.6130
info@womensvoicesnow.org