“The Solace of Sisterhood,” a documentary about an all-Black female biker crew in New Orleans, pealed into the Tribeca Film Festival in New York on Sunday for its world premiere.
The film, directed and produced by Geneva Peschka and Anna Andersen, shines the spotlight on the Caramel Curves club as its members defy societal norms to pursue their own freedom and happiness against all odds while empowering the next generation of female riders.
Peschka and Anderson told Caribbean Life that The Solace of Sisterhood explores the lives of co-founders Shanika “Tru” Beatty and Nakosha “Coco” Curry, uncovering their authenticity and vulnerability.
The film captures Tru’s story of getting the riding bug from her business owner father and how she has passed on the love of motorcycles — and entrepreneurship — to her young daughter, Skye Beatty, Peschka and Anderson said.
They said that the film stands as “a compelling testament to the pursuit of one’s personal freedom through legacy and the art of riding.”
“The Caramel Curves, known for both their prowess on their motorcycles, their fierceness and their style — they often ride in stilettos — are community favorites in New Orleans and beyond,” said Peschka and Anderson, noting that The Caramel Curves were even recruited by Rihanna for a campaign for her Savage X Fenty lingerie line in 2021.
“We are honored to shed light on the women of the Caramel Curves and their effervescent spirits. Their story of triumph over adversity, of reclaiming agency in a society that often seeks to confine, is embedded in every filmed moment of this story,” said Peschka and Andersen.
“We strive to honor their legacy and inspire others to embrace their true selves, serving as a reminder that we should all live in pursuit of peace and self-determination,” they added.
The directors said they were drawn to these women and their story through the power of sisterhood for the profound exploration of identity, community and legacy.
The documentary is screening as part of the film program Shorts: Unbought & Unbossed, bold stories of joy, love and safety showcasing dynamic Expressions of Black Freedom.
The film is showing at the festival through Sunday, Jun. 16 and is expected to continue the festival circuit this year.
The Solace of Sisterhood is produced by Jeremy Blum. Safiyah Chiniere is director of photography, and Tiffany Taveras is editor.
For more information about the film, follow @thesolaceofsisterhoodfilm on Instagram or email thesolaceofsisterhood@gmail.com.
