One of the films chosen for the Oh, Holy screening event was He Who Dances on Wood (2016). This film centres on Fred Nelson, a man who makes a daily ritual of tap dancing on a worn piece of wood under a bridge. For all the members of our group, when we were selecting films, this piece consistently appeared on everyone’s shortlist. The primary reason this film resonated so strongly is Fred himself. Fred’s routine can be seen as his “religion,” as he explicitly states that he doesn’t find joy in traditional deities like Jesus or Allah but instead finds spiritual fulfilment in a piece of wood. This aligns seamlessly with the theme of our screening event, which focuses on deviating from traditional religions and belief systems. Fred’s journey of creating his own path to enlightenment and happiness beautifully exemplifies this concept.
The cinematography in this film is another key element that influenced its selection. The film offers visually stunning shots of Fred dancing, emphasizing the raw, visceral connection between him and his craft. One particularly remarkable scene occurs when Fred discusses his age. The sequence juxtaposes a younger version of himself, portrayed by an actor with similar facial features, with the present-day Fred walking by. This visual storytelling technique, combined with Fred’s poignant narration, captures themes like “coming of age” and “leaving the past behind” in a way that feels deeply resonant and impactful. The juxtaposition of past and present Fred not only enriches the narrative but also symbolizes his journey of self-discovery and growth, rooted in his love for tap dancing.

The relevance of this film to our program cannot be overstated. Fred’s story provides a compelling exploration of religious ambiguity. Unlike conventional narratives where faith in a higher power offers solace, Fred derives his sense of fulfilment and strength from his passion—tap dancing. In this way, his practice of dancing becomes a form of worship, a deeply personal and spiritual act that mirrors the devotion seen in religious rituals. This contrast between traditional worship and Fred’s individualized path to joy highlights the broader theme of our event: the redefinition of faith and spirituality in contemporary contexts.

Fred’s narrative challenges the viewer to reconsider the notion of religion and spirituality. His story suggests that one does not need to adhere to organized religion to find purpose or happiness. Instead, pursuing one’s passion with dedication and love can be equally fulfilling. This perspective broadens the scope of our program, inviting the audience to reflect on their own beliefs and practices.

Ultimately, He Who Dances on Wood is an extraordinary film that transcends its simple premise. By focusing on Fred’s unwavering dedication to his craft and his unique approach to fulfilment, the film offers a rich tapestry of visual and thematic elements that make it an essential inclusion in our screening event. Its ability to convey complex ideas about faith, identity, and passion through Fred’s story makes it a perfect fit for the Oh, Holy program.