Making this film has been the most powerful form of human inspiration…

The world of the professional ballerina is an all-in life; it demands an attention and focus and obsession which pushes everything else to the sidelines. Eliza Schroeder’s new documentary film shines an emotionally illuminating light on the difficulties facing ballet dancers who have now become mothers and whose lives have transformed. With a particular focus on the strength of mind and body required of the elite level of dance – the prima ballerinas – COLLIDING FORCES follows five dancers from around the world on their journey of physical and mental agony and ecstasy as we share the sacrifices they must make in order to continue to thrive and succeed in a highly competitive profession whilst also building and nurturing a family.

In 2024, the film had its world premiere at the world renowned Royal Opera House in London, followed by a Q&A led by journalist Lyndsey Winship with director Eliza Schroeder and spotlighted-dancers Tara-Brigitte Bhavnani (Royal Ballet) and Begona Cao (ex-Principal at English National Ballet).

The film also follows acclaimed dancer and entrepreneur Mary Helen Bowers (Ex-NYC Ballet, Owner Ballet Beautiful) who trained and prepared Natalie Portman for the movie THE BLACK SWAN as well as the lives of Karina Gonzalez (the first Hispanic Principal at Houston

Ballet) and Miyako Yoshida (Artistic Director at the New National Theatre Tokyo and former Principal at the Royal Ballet) who are also featured in the film.

Official Selection Lady Filmmakers Festival 2024, Beverly Hills, California

Leslie J.Sacks Best Documentary Award Winner 'The Women's Voices Now’ Festival, California 2024 - with a Q and A with world renowned ballerina Misty Copeland (NYC Ballet) after the Award screening.
Official selection 'Through Women's Eyes, Sarasota FL 2024