Behind the Dress

Every year women apply to compete in Miss Universe, subjecting themselves to being judged on their looks, dress, poise, and presentation. Through unprecedented access and first-hand accounts, filmmaker and former Miss Universe Canada Elena Semikina takes us beyond the stereotypes and clichés, showing the pageant as a vehicle for empowering women, humanitarian outreach, and for one contestant - even social reform. Miss Universe Canada drew world-headlines after Jenna Talackova was denied the right to compete for not being a 'naturally born female'. Donald Trump revised the Miss Universe rulebook and Jenna became the first transgender woman to compete in any Miss Universe pageant. Behind The Dress introduces us to the contestants of Miss Universe Canada who are more than fighting for a crown, these are women on a mission, not for a prize, but for a voice.

Directed by Elena Semikina, Behind the Dress leans on a strong ensemble — Gino Berti, Chelsea Bird, Olivia Culpo — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 2014.