World premiere of the short film "Ultimatum" at the Tribeca Film Festival

On June 4, the short film "Ultimatum" by Desirée Mwepu and Jean-Luc Mwepu had its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival. The film was screened as part of the Competitive Edge program section, in which all films were directed by women, featured female protagonists, and explored themes of sports or achievement.

Synopsis

It's tryout time at the Royal Ballet School, and Saran's last chance to apply. The school is known for being extremely selective, only accepting girls who fit a certain mold. Saran, who is Black and looks nothing like the ideal image, knows this. As she prepares for the first exam, Saran meets Soleil, another Black girl. Despite being pitted against each other, they bond over their shared exclusion and support each other throughout the exams. As they progress through the tryouts, it becomes clear that only one Black person will be accepted into the school.

Production Facts

Directors & Scriptwriters: Desirée Mwepu & Jean-Luc Mwepu
Producers: Svante Tidholm & Amir Halim

Produced by Två Träd AB in co-production with Film i Väst, and with the support of Swedish Film Institute, Gothenburg Film Studios, Göteborgs Stad and Storyline.
Post production in Västra Götaland: Auditory
World premiere at Tribeca Film Festival 2026

Ultimatum

Desirée Mwepu & Jean-Luc Mwepu