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Ess Hodlmoser, a light-skinned non-binary performance artist, performing a contortion routine indoors. The scene is abstract, with Ess outlined by a vibrant orange rectangle surrounded by a black frame. The walls are lit by faint green light and sparkles of purple light. Ess's skin appears green and black due to the lighting. There is a breathing tube attached to their mouth, and their eyes are closed.

VACUUM

Short Film
2020
Canada
This short contortion routine is performed by Ess Hödlmoser; a Canadian non-binary actor, stunt performer, and circus artist.

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Ess Hödlmoser is a trans-nonbinary artist from Toronto, Canada. Trained in Mongolian contortion, their work focuses on transitory/liminal states, ab/normalcy, the concept of spectacle in contemporary circus, and the fine line between what we deem beautiful and what we deem grotesque.

Their duo work (chor. Roberto Campanella, partner Troy James) was awarded the Prix Moulin Rouge at the 40eme Festival Mondial du Cirque de Demain, the Special Prize of the State Circus of Belarus at the 6th International China Circus Festival, and a golden buzzer on France's Got Talent.

Ess continues to perform on international stages, as well as in front of the camera as an ACTRA stunt performer and stunt actor, where their unique athleticism has brought disturbing, contorted characters to life in commercials, TV, and feature films.

-Description.

Entry last updated:

2 Aug 2026

A Chinese non-binary person sitting indoors. They are androgynous with short, black hair, cut into a buzzcut. They have dark brown eyes. They are wearing a grey jacket over a grey shirt. Their expression is neutral or annoyed.

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