My name is Jac'leen Smith and I am a Los Angeles-based filmmaker and storyteller. I’m directing my first narrative short film, FLEX/VENUS.

Your support is needed to help bring this story to life!

MISSION STATEMENT

FLEX/VENUS highlights what it feels like for women athletes to have their femininity policed. This film was inspired by my own experiences growing up as an athlete and a dancer, with a muscular physique. I also aim to make this film for young girls who struggle to embrace their physical strength.

The Story

VENUS is a former athlete who is trying to silence her inner critic along with that of the world's– all while embracing her femininity.

During her morning routine at home, former athlete VENUS is triggered when she sees a post on social media of one of her role models being criticized about her muscular physique.

This sends Venus into a spiral of comparing herself which results in Venus examining her own body. After Venus launches into a cycle of self-judgment, she begins to find refuge in her body, and through the art of dance. Venus' journey of self-love forces her to confront herself, while silencing the critique from within and that has been projected upon her. Ultimately, Venus learns to celebrate her powerful form in a world that chooses to shame her because of it.

A word from the director

Flex/Venus is personal to me because it was inspired by my own experiences growing up as an athlete and as a dancer.

From the time I was in elementary school up until college, I ran track. I also danced consistently, having been trained in ballet and modern jazz when I was younger, and Chicago footwork throughout college. While I loved competing in both the sport of track and field and have always loved the art of dance, I remember my physique being subjected to unsolicited commentary whether it was from adults or my peers. I was either too chubby or too ‘fat’ as I recall one teacher telling me, or too physically strong.

In retrospect, I never thought those comments impacted my self-esteem or how I viewed myself, but they did.

There were times when my male peers would jokingly boast about my muscular physique, and I internalized that as not being seen as feminine enough.

There were also times that I compared my muscular stature to that of girls who were much slender than I was. It wasn’t until I began seeing women athletes like Florence Griffith Joyner, Venus and Serena Williams, and Simone Biles– that I began to see my physical strength as something to be celebrated. These Black women are also athletes who have all battled public scrutiny while pursuing their dreams and have persevered despite the world’s critique of their physical appearance.

Why Now?

This film is timely because Black women athletes are constantly scrutinized today about their bodies, how they wear their hair or their unabashed display of confidence. With this film, I aim to show young women, especially young Black women athletes, that they should never be ashamed of their physical power and that they are indeed enough as they are.

Themes

Flex/Venus is more than a film—it’s a powerful story for Black girls to see themselves as strong, soft, and worthy. It’s also a space for young women to reconnect with and heal their inner child. We believe this story matters deeply—and we need your help to tell it.

Donations

Your donations will help us pay our cast and crew, contribute towards equipment rentals, as well as help us secure locations for the two-day shoot in Los Angeles, as we are in the midst of the pre-production phase of the film.

Spread The Word

The next best way to support our project? Help us spread the word! Sharing on social media, forwarding an email, or simply telling a friend can go a long way. Your voice can help us reach new audiences and build the momentum we need. We’re so grateful for your support—it truly makes a difference!

Stay Connected!

Connect with us on Instagram @flex_venus for project updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and introductions to the incredible team bringing this film to life.

THANK YOU!

If you’ve made it this far, it means a lot—your time and care truly matter. Even if you’re not able to contribute right now, I hope you’ll stay connected, follow the journey of this film, and share it with your community.