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FILM POSTERS
2023 OFFICIAL SELECTIONS
FILM POSTERS
77
Directed by Kim Kopf
"Synopsis for short film 77
I was inspired to write and direct 77 after my sister found herself suffering in the
mental health arena, being fed cocktails of psych drugs. My hope is to give a bigger
awareness to the dangerous affects these cocktails can have on the human mind.
77 takes you into the mind of Olivia West, a doctor who becomes a guinea pig in her
own facility and ultimately succumbs to the affects of the drugs she is being force-
fed by a colleague with a dangerous agenda.
The film is shot in color, and sepia during flashback scenes. Flashbacks also have
some distortion to help the viewer understand how it feels to be under the affects of
the drugs being administered to the patient, as well is sound specific to further aid
the viewer in understanding the patient's POV experience.
Directed by Kim Kopf
I was inspired to write and direct 77 after my sister found herself suffering in the
mental health arena, being fed cocktails of psych drugs. My hope is to give a bigger
awareness to the dangerous affects these cocktails can have on the human mind.
77 takes you into the mind of Olivia West, a doctor who becomes a guinea pig in her
own facility and ultimately succumbs to the affects of the drugs she is being force-
fed by a colleague with a dangerous agenda.
The film is shot in color, and sepia during flashback scenes. Flashbacks also have
some distortion to help the viewer understand how it feels to be under the affects of
the drugs being administered to the patient, as well is sound specific to further aid
the viewer in understanding the patient's POV experience.
Directed by Kim Kopf
A LITTLE DEAD
Directed by Ben Richardson
A Little Dead brief synopsis: Hailey and her brother Kevin visit their grandpa’s farm for the weekend. They discover that the caretaker has vanished, and Grandpa has a new nightly ritual of sharing a drink with his deceased wife and another unseen entity.
Directed by Ben Richardson
Directed by Ben Richardson
A STRANGER WITH MY FACE
Directed by Olivia Mitchell & Kerry Furrh
Brief synopsis:
Back in 50´s Hollywood, it wasn´t uncommon for studio heads to send ""assistant"" to spy on their most famous stars, secretly controlling every aspect of their lifes, images and sexualities. Judy Garland was distruaght when, after three years growing close (some say romantically...) with friend Betty Asher, she found out Betty was a spy sent by the studio, Judy cried for days, some say she was never the same. These stories deserve to be told, the exploitation of the queer lady movie star is on another twisted lever. By knowing these experiences we validate our own internalized feelings and the long history that has shaped our shame. Let´s unravel it!
Back in 50´s Hollywood, it wasn´t uncommon for studio heads to send ""assistant"" to spy on their most famous stars, secretly controlling every aspect of their lifes, images and sexualities. Judy Garland was distruaght when, after three years growing close (some say romantically...) with friend Betty Asher, she found out Betty was a spy sent by the studio, Judy cried for days, some say she was never the same. These stories deserve to be told, the exploitation of the queer lady movie star is on another twisted lever. By knowing these experiences we validate our own internalized feelings and the long history that has shaped our shame. Let´s unravel it!
A YEAR TO LIFE
Directed by Nikki Hevesy
A life -altering choice is made for a pre-teen boy on the anniversary of his mother's death. ---------A Year to Life was filmed in South Los Angeles where the story that inspired this short actually occurred. This short film profiling at risk youth pays homage to those street soldiers who ---sacrifice to give back to their communities and make a difference for the next generation. ---- A Year to Life was filmed in South Los Angeles where the story behind this short actually occurred. Inspired by a true story, A YEAR TO LIFE is a captivating film that shows how one moment can change a person’s life. It’s a unique story of one person’s selfless act to give a traumatized boy a chance to rise and thrive. It pays homage to those street soldiers who sacrifice in order to give back to their communities, and make a difference for the next generation. For more information, visit AYearToLife.com.
AFTER FRED
Directed by Rachel Meyrick
"After Fred synopsis:
After Fred is the story of a miraculous escape and how it’s never too late to change. Charlotta’s violent marriage was brought to an abrupt end after 40 years when a shop assistant witnessed her being attacked and called it out. Two years on she is free and, aged 82, is blossoming as a warrior advocate, supporting women decades younger than her to face the court system after making their own escapes from domestic violence.
After Fred tagline:
“Sir you cannot do that!” How these words from a shop assistant ended 40 years of domestic violence and saved the life of 82 year old Charlotta.
After Fred is the story of a miraculous escape and how it’s never too late to change. Charlotta’s violent marriage was brought to an abrupt end after 40 years when a shop assistant witnessed her being attacked and called it out. Two years on she is free and, aged 82, is blossoming as a warrior advocate, supporting women decades younger than her to face the court system after making their own escapes from domestic violence.
After Fred tagline:
“Sir you cannot do that!” How these words from a shop assistant ended 40 years of domestic violence and saved the life of 82 year old Charlotta.
AROUND THE CORNER
Directed by Victoria Dong
Synopsis:
Tina is burnt out from new responsibilities as a mother and her inattentive husband isn't there when she needs help the most. One night after an exhausting day, a dark creature arrives to destroy the life Tina tries so hard to maintain.
Tina is burnt out from new responsibilities as a mother and her inattentive husband isn't there when she needs help the most. One night after an exhausting day, a dark creature arrives to destroy the life Tina tries so hard to maintain.
AZRAEL
Directed by Selin Uzal
Short synopsis: Mass, a mere mortal, awfully scared of the idea of death encounters Azrael. The Angel of Death. As he tries to run away, he mysteriously and continuously runs into Azrael; leaving them both bewildered and confused. Mass, scared. In his hopes to escape Azrael, he finds that ‘she’ is waiting for him at his destination. Worried that he would be late to their date.
BACKLOG
Directed by Jacqueline Elyse Rosenthal
Sign the Petition to end the backlog: https://www.change.org/p/backlog-a-petition-to-reform-our-judicial-system-s-approach-to-sexual-assault-survivors?recruiter=732610970&recruited_by_id=fcce8210-4eec-11e7-9266-973bad38a24b&utm_source=share_petition&utm_campaign=share_for_starters_page&utm_medium=copylink
Log line:
The true story of a young woman’s rape and silencing by the police that led her to become the key witness in the 2010 hearings to end the rape kit backlogs. Can she trust the system that betrayed her?
Synopsis:
In 2006, Mallory Newell (names changed) was sexually assaulted on her 21st birthday. The next day she underwent a painful rape kit exam to collect clinical evidence. The police shelved her rape kit and evaded her for three years. Valerie continued to advocate for other survivor's rights, when she is called upon to become the key witness in the 2010 Senate Hearing. In the moments before she testifies, she musters the strength to re-live what got her to where she sits now, at the podium to speak in one of the greatest courts of the US, her voice finally heard.
Log line:
The true story of a young woman’s rape and silencing by the police that led her to become the key witness in the 2010 hearings to end the rape kit backlogs. Can she trust the system that betrayed her?
Synopsis:
In 2006, Mallory Newell (names changed) was sexually assaulted on her 21st birthday. The next day she underwent a painful rape kit exam to collect clinical evidence. The police shelved her rape kit and evaded her for three years. Valerie continued to advocate for other survivor's rights, when she is called upon to become the key witness in the 2010 Senate Hearing. In the moments before she testifies, she musters the strength to re-live what got her to where she sits now, at the podium to speak in one of the greatest courts of the US, her voice finally heard.
BIENVENIDOS A LOS ANGELES
Directed by Lisa Cole
"LOGLINE:
Inspired by true events and shot on location at LAX airport, ""Bienvenidos a Los Angeles"" tells the timely story of Imani, a Nigerian single-mother living in Los Angeles, who offers to help a perfect stranger reunite with her son. In doing so, Imani learns this simple act of kindness threatens to jeopardize her own path to citizenship.
DIRECTOR'S statement:
""BIENVENIDOS A LOS ANGELES"" is a powerful short film based on a true story highlighting the complexities of immigration. Winner of the 2023 Diversity in Cannes Short Film Showcase, sponsored by Viola Davis, the film was created by a predominantly female and 56% BIPOC cast & crew, and filmed at LAX International Airport. “BALA” (for short), has garnered attention from the New York Times and received the Creator Plus Flip the Script $25K fund for BIPOC filmmakers.
The film was inspired by a harrowing incident involving my close family friend, Elizabeth, who sought to reunite with her 5-year-old son Chris after five years of separation. Chris was detained by immigration upon his arrival at LAX, leading to a night of intense emotions. My small role in the ordeal, as the person who went to LAX to pick up Chris, opened my eyes to the fear and uncertainty faced by many immigrants, and motivated me to create this film. Elizabeth's trust in me to share her story is truly humbling.
To ensure authenticity, I sought the guidance of Sumangala Bhattacharya, a female immigration attorney who provided invaluable insights into the realities of the system. From the outset, our goal was for Elizabeth to reclaim her narrative. As a white filmmaker telling a BIPOC story, I had to set aside my ego and embrace the role of an ally. I am immensely grateful to Elizabeth, her family, and our dedicated and diverse team of creatives for their collaboration in bringing this film to life.
In gratitude,
Lisa Cole & Team BALA
We have partnered with the Refugee Children Center to raise funds & awareness for their work with migrant children and families.
Inspired by true events and shot on location at LAX airport, ""Bienvenidos a Los Angeles"" tells the timely story of Imani, a Nigerian single-mother living in Los Angeles, who offers to help a perfect stranger reunite with her son. In doing so, Imani learns this simple act of kindness threatens to jeopardize her own path to citizenship.
DIRECTOR'S statement:
""BIENVENIDOS A LOS ANGELES"" is a powerful short film based on a true story highlighting the complexities of immigration. Winner of the 2023 Diversity in Cannes Short Film Showcase, sponsored by Viola Davis, the film was created by a predominantly female and 56% BIPOC cast & crew, and filmed at LAX International Airport. “BALA” (for short), has garnered attention from the New York Times and received the Creator Plus Flip the Script $25K fund for BIPOC filmmakers.
The film was inspired by a harrowing incident involving my close family friend, Elizabeth, who sought to reunite with her 5-year-old son Chris after five years of separation. Chris was detained by immigration upon his arrival at LAX, leading to a night of intense emotions. My small role in the ordeal, as the person who went to LAX to pick up Chris, opened my eyes to the fear and uncertainty faced by many immigrants, and motivated me to create this film. Elizabeth's trust in me to share her story is truly humbling.
To ensure authenticity, I sought the guidance of Sumangala Bhattacharya, a female immigration attorney who provided invaluable insights into the realities of the system. From the outset, our goal was for Elizabeth to reclaim her narrative. As a white filmmaker telling a BIPOC story, I had to set aside my ego and embrace the role of an ally. I am immensely grateful to Elizabeth, her family, and our dedicated and diverse team of creatives for their collaboration in bringing this film to life.
In gratitude,
Lisa Cole & Team BALA
We have partnered with the Refugee Children Center to raise funds & awareness for their work with migrant children and families.
BONBON VOYAGE
Directed by Emma Ream
Synopsis: "Bonbon Voyage” takes place on a cruise ship in the 1950s. When a beauty queen sees a poster touting a “Swimsuit Contest for Bathing Beauties!” her dreams of victory and accolades seem to be in direct conflict with her love of desserts. In her determination to win, she runs a gauntlet of bonbons, cupcakes and other treats, fighting against her desires and fear of gaining weight. Her wordless struggles with temptation hold a comic mirror to pop culture’s unrealistic female body imagery and fat-shaming.
BROKEN PUZZLE
Directed by Anna Pazderski
"Broken Puzzle Synopsis:
Three wildly different women in love with the same cheating man try to force him to choose just one of them. However, in the process they accidentally kill him. The women are forced to work together to figure out how to get rid of the body, but as they do they slowly discover more and more about what kind of person the man really was. As they overcome a pervy landlord and flirty drunk men, they regain their self-love and confidence. Website: brokenpuzzlethemovie.com
Three wildly different women in love with the same cheating man try to force him to choose just one of them. However, in the process they accidentally kill him. The women are forced to work together to figure out how to get rid of the body, but as they do they slowly discover more and more about what kind of person the man really was. As they overcome a pervy landlord and flirty drunk men, they regain their self-love and confidence. Website: brokenpuzzlethemovie.com
BUMPED
Directed by Mahaneela Choudhury-Reed
Bumped' is a heartfelt exploration of Michelle and Deja's enduring six-year relationship. Their love is profound, they're newly engaged, and they're aspiring parents. However, an unforeseen infidelity sends tremors through their foundation, leaving Deja grappling with a turbulent mix of anger and a desire to salvage what they hold dear.
BUNA
Directed by Searit Kahsay Huluf
An infatuated African-American chef creates an imaginary romantic relationship with an Ethiopian chef across the street - but her fantasies soon begin to overpower her senses, causing her to lose her grip on reality.
CARETAKER
Directed by Verónica Rose Wood
"Synopsis:
When Antonio receives improper care from his doctor and loses his sight, his sister puts her life on hold and moves to Texas to take care of him full time. A story of the generational history of caretaking in an immigrant Mexican family - and the weight, love and breaking points of familial sacrifice. This is a documentary film I made of my mother, uncle, and grandparents.
When Antonio receives improper care from his doctor and loses his sight, his sister puts her life on hold and moves to Texas to take care of him full time. A story of the generational history of caretaking in an immigrant Mexican family - and the weight, love and breaking points of familial sacrifice. This is a documentary film I made of my mother, uncle, and grandparents.
CAT GOT YOUR TONGUE
Directed by Georgina Hellier
"Synopsis:
Hazel is trying to track down a man she thought she had a connection with. Whilst at her friend Nick's store she assists the elderly Brian and learns more about love and relationships.
Cat Got Your Tongue is a heartfelt comedy about not being able to carry on living until you’ve buried what’s already dead. It stars Georgina Hellier (Industry/HBO), David Sterne (Detectorists), Sid Sagar (Batman).
Hazel is trying to track down a man she thought she had a connection with. Whilst at her friend Nick's store she assists the elderly Brian and learns more about love and relationships.
Cat Got Your Tongue is a heartfelt comedy about not being able to carry on living until you’ve buried what’s already dead. It stars Georgina Hellier (Industry/HBO), David Sterne (Detectorists), Sid Sagar (Batman).
COLONIZED
Directed by Dr. Priyadarshini G. Roy
"Colonized-The Largest Genocide was a found-footage student Thesis short documentary film via an original concept by
filmmaker Dr. Priyadarshini G. Roy during her Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Digital Cinema program to educate,
enlighten, and engage in discourse. It has won 12 awards across worldwide film festivals for Best Documentary, Best
Story, Best Female Director, Best Short Film, and Best Student Project, which screened in Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, and
Dubai, among others. Dr. Roy would like to thank COAWFF for the Official Selection, which marks the project’s Los
Angeles premiere in her hometown. Dr. Roy has a Ph.D. in Strategic Media and shares stories by amalgamating
academia and the arts through storytelling via film, dance, music, production, and radio.
Colonized expands upon the consequences of global colonization across continents: Asia, Africa, and the Americas,
which has never been depicted in previous documentaries. The thesis hypothesis states that the most significant world
genocide was created due to the ramifications of colonization, defined by the forces in conflict with contradictions
between the bureaucratic display of historic events versus the unseen facts and found footage. The new world order
was established as the wealth of colonizers exponentially grew while drying out the resources of native lands.
Colonizers’ egocentric agendas halted the progress of nations for centuries, as they negatively impacted society’s
economic, religious, and political segments. The death toll from worldwide colonialism has never been tallied from the
16th century to the present. Post the independence of colonized countries, neither were reparations given nor
accountability taken, simply demoting countries to second/third world nations. While the docu-short found footage
film was curated during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, the vision is to transform the thesis treatment into a
Documentary Limited Series on a streaming platform.
Thank you for taking the time to view my film. I hope to educate audiences for more informed discussions on positive
change through art.
Sincerely,
Dr. Priyadarshini G. Roy
-Ph.D. Strategic Media
-President, Priyadarshini Films and Entertainment L.L.C."
filmmaker Dr. Priyadarshini G. Roy during her Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Digital Cinema program to educate,
enlighten, and engage in discourse. It has won 12 awards across worldwide film festivals for Best Documentary, Best
Story, Best Female Director, Best Short Film, and Best Student Project, which screened in Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, and
Dubai, among others. Dr. Roy would like to thank COAWFF for the Official Selection, which marks the project’s Los
Angeles premiere in her hometown. Dr. Roy has a Ph.D. in Strategic Media and shares stories by amalgamating
academia and the arts through storytelling via film, dance, music, production, and radio.
Colonized expands upon the consequences of global colonization across continents: Asia, Africa, and the Americas,
which has never been depicted in previous documentaries. The thesis hypothesis states that the most significant world
genocide was created due to the ramifications of colonization, defined by the forces in conflict with contradictions
between the bureaucratic display of historic events versus the unseen facts and found footage. The new world order
was established as the wealth of colonizers exponentially grew while drying out the resources of native lands.
Colonizers’ egocentric agendas halted the progress of nations for centuries, as they negatively impacted society’s
economic, religious, and political segments. The death toll from worldwide colonialism has never been tallied from the
16th century to the present. Post the independence of colonized countries, neither were reparations given nor
accountability taken, simply demoting countries to second/third world nations. While the docu-short found footage
film was curated during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, the vision is to transform the thesis treatment into a
Documentary Limited Series on a streaming platform.
Thank you for taking the time to view my film. I hope to educate audiences for more informed discussions on positive
change through art.
Sincerely,
Dr. Priyadarshini G. Roy
-Ph.D. Strategic Media
-President, Priyadarshini Films and Entertainment L.L.C."
CONSUMED
Directed by JP Bradham
"Consumed:
Tammy discovers one night that her shopping addiction might become the death of her. "
Tammy discovers one night that her shopping addiction might become the death of her. "
DAD'S GONE WILD
Directed by Evie Abat
George Ramos experiences an unexpected bout of bereavement mania after the death of his beloved wife, Perla. Known as an introverted, mild-mannered husband by his friends and adult children, George's antics after the funeral shock his community, until the moment at which he realizes the finality of his loss.
DEADHEAD
Directed by Virginia Powers Hendry
"Synopsis for DeadHead:
Wendy is a middle-aged woman who is constantly dismissed and made to feel invisible by the men in her life. One day while working in her garden, she pricks her finger on a thorny cocoon, and is infected with something... inhuman. After she is suddenly let go and replaced with a younger woman by her boss at a job she's enjoyed for decades, her rage, (along with alien DNA), transforms her into a powerful creature, hellbent on revenge. "
Wendy is a middle-aged woman who is constantly dismissed and made to feel invisible by the men in her life. One day while working in her garden, she pricks her finger on a thorny cocoon, and is infected with something... inhuman. After she is suddenly let go and replaced with a younger woman by her boss at a job she's enjoyed for decades, her rage, (along with alien DNA), transforms her into a powerful creature, hellbent on revenge. "
ELLY
Directed by Yu He
Faced with an unplanned pregnancy, Elly(Zhong Ai), a 27-year-old woman brought her American born Chinese boyfriend Tyler back to her hometown Foshan. Returning home subtly shifted her state of wavering and anxiety, and Elly made peace with her complicated feelings deep down about her mother.
ETHICAL SLAUGHTER
Directed by Lili Frances Katz
Synopsis: Inspired by true events, this dark comedy centers around two sisters who endeavor to settle a debate about the ethics of eating meat by attempting to slaughter a piglet.
FLUFFY HOMEGIRLS
Directed by Elvia Susana Rubalcava
"Fluffy Homegirls Brief Synopsis: Alex is forced to
face her body issues in front of her “model type” girlfriends on
a girls vacay to New York City. A serendipitous encounter helps
her find inspiration and acceptance to enjoy and love the body
she is in.
"
face her body issues in front of her “model type” girlfriends on
a girls vacay to New York City. A serendipitous encounter helps
her find inspiration and acceptance to enjoy and love the body
she is in.
"
GOING HOME
Directed by Alessandra Carlino
"Synopsis:
Tidal waves of debilitating events have sent many spiraling into chronic homelessness, forcing them to lose everything: home, family, self-esteem and hope. But many do recover.
Going Home is a story of transformation and courage, of personal challenges and strength. It is the story of the resiliency of the human spirit told through the lens of our homelessness crisis.
Tidal waves of debilitating events have sent many spiraling into chronic homelessness, forcing them to lose everything: home, family, self-esteem and hope. But many do recover.
Going Home is a story of transformation and courage, of personal challenges and strength. It is the story of the resiliency of the human spirit told through the lens of our homelessness crisis.
HANGNAIL
Directed by Grace Connor
"Erin is an outgoing teenager who lives in admiration of her older cousin Blair. When Blair invites Erin to a party one weekend, Erin sees this as an initiation into Blair’s alluring and dangerous world. As the events of the night progress, however, Blair’s self-serving behaviour becomes more and more apparent and Erin is thrown into the harsh reality of Blair’s lifestyle.
Erin’s dream night becomes a relentless nightmare leading to the question of will her naivety get the better of her? Or will she wake up and see the truth behind the person in front of her?"
Erin’s dream night becomes a relentless nightmare leading to the question of will her naivety get the better of her? Or will she wake up and see the truth behind the person in front of her?"
HIM
Directed by Taylor Neary
"HIM - Short Film
Synopsis
“A happily married woman becomes obsessed with an
Apex delivery driver.”"
Synopsis
“A happily married woman becomes obsessed with an
Apex delivery driver.”"
2023 OFFICIAL SELECTIONS
FEATURE FILMS, SHORT FILMS, SHORT SHORTS, DOCUMENTARIES.
FEATURE LENGTH FILMS AND DOCS:
-
LEVI: BECOMING HIMSELF
-
RADIOACTIVE: THE WOMEN OF THREE MILE ISLAND
-
WHEN MY SLEEPING DRAGON WOKE
-
UNVEILED: JOYCE TENNESON AND THE HEROINE'S JOURNEY
-
RUDY
-
LET'S MEET HALFWAY
-
INHERIT THE LAND
UNDER TEN MINUTES LONG SHORT FILMS:
-
HIM
-
OVERDOSE
-
LOOK BACK AND LAUGH
-
YEKI BOOD, YEKI NABOOD
-
A STRANGER WITH MY FACE
-
LASHING OUT
-
UNTHINKABLE CONVERSATIONS
-
ETHICAL SLAUGHTER
-
BONBON VOYAGE
-
HANGNAIL
-
CARETAKER
-
LA SIGUANABA
-
THE EXCHANGE GIRL
-
AZRAEL
-
77
-
MI NIÑA (MY LITTLE GIRL)
-
VENUS
-
SISTERS
-
TREASURE HUNT
-
SIDED
-
AROUND THE CORNER
-
MARIMACHA
-
SYNCHRONISM
-
IN SEARCH OF
-
THE SERVICE
-
ITCHING
-
REARRANGED
-
LADY INVISIBLE
-
I AM STILL HERE
-
THE RESCUE
-
WEIGHT
-
SOALS: SIEGE OF A LIVING SOUL
ELEVEN MINUTES AND OVER SHORT FILMS:
-
THE CONSEQUENCE
-
MIGRATING TEXTILES
-
LIFE OF RILEY
-
ELLY
-
PROMISES
-
FLUFFY HOMEGIRLS
-
I CAN'T PROTECT YOU
-
THE MEDICINE WITHIN
-
LEGEND OF EL CUCUY
-
TOUGH LOVE
-
GOING HOME
-
MONOCHROMATIC
-
DAD'S GONE WILD
-
IN THE GRAY
-
LILIAN
-
A LITTLE DEAD
-
SOL SUPERNOVA
-
JFK-THE THREE MILES
-
HOLLY RAMSAY: THE TALK
-
LENA
-
WUSS
-
DEADHEAD
-
LAST SHOW IN RAMSGATE
-
JOGGERS
-
ROSA
-
TELL ME YOU LOVE ME
-
BUMPED
-
PEMÓN
-
VIDA
-
HUNDEFREUND (DOGFRIEND)
-
RED RIBBONS OF LOVE
-
BROKEN PUZZLE
-
THE PURE SONG
-
BACKLOG
-
BUNA
-
NEON RAGE
-
LIKE GOING TO A HARDWARE STORE FOR BREAD
-
REMEDIAL
-
STILLNESS
-
STAIN RESISTANT
-
THE OTHER HALF
-
LES CÂLINS CHEAPS
-
LE BALLON BLEU
-
IVY GRACE
-
BIENVENIDOS A LOS ANGELES
-
AFTER FRED
-
CAT GOT YOUR TONGUE
-
COLONIZED
-
A YEAR TO LIFE
-
TEAM-BUILDING
-
JUST RIGHT
-
CONSUMED
SELECTED FILMS
SCRIPT POSTERS
2023 OFFICIAL SELECTIONS
WRITTEN WORD POSTERS
ANOTHER SATURDAY
Written by J. A. DellaRipa
ANOTHER SATURDAY
Synopsis
Another Saturday is about a young teenager, Joyce, who has a
complicated relationship with her depressed, suicidal mom, Dawn.
Joyce does the chores, takes care of her little sister, and is her mom’s
caretaker because she loves and wants to help her. Yet, Joyce has
built up walls to protect herself from the tense and unpredictable
behavior of her mom’s illness. One Saturday afternoon, Joyce
decides to go to the park to watch her secret crush play baseball.
Slowly, she lets down her guard and embraces a carefree day as a
teen. But when she returns home, what she finds will change her life.
Synopsis
Another Saturday is about a young teenager, Joyce, who has a
complicated relationship with her depressed, suicidal mom, Dawn.
Joyce does the chores, takes care of her little sister, and is her mom’s
caretaker because she loves and wants to help her. Yet, Joyce has
built up walls to protect herself from the tense and unpredictable
behavior of her mom’s illness. One Saturday afternoon, Joyce
decides to go to the park to watch her secret crush play baseball.
Slowly, she lets down her guard and embraces a carefree day as a
teen. But when she returns home, what she finds will change her life.
CANDY PUPPET
Written by Angela Lorena Statnik
Candy Puppet (Synopsis)
When a gluttonous girl enters a candy store, she unknowingly opens a portal for a magician mime, who turns her into a puppet, and leaves her soul trapped in darkness as a punishment for her gluttony.
When a gluttonous girl enters a candy store, she unknowingly opens a portal for a magician mime, who turns her into a puppet, and leaves her soul trapped in darkness as a punishment for her gluttony.
CLOSER TO FINE
Written by Marisa Forrest
CLOSER TO FINE
LOGLINE: LADY BIRD meets THE CATCHER IN THE RYE – As she wavers between championing individuality and seeking acceptance, a 15-year-old girl acts out but fails to recognize that her behavior may have very serious consequences. A semi-accurate recollection of the writer's adolescence.
ELEVATOR PITCH: Set in 1989, CLOSER TO FINE tells a universal, yet uniquely female, coming-of-age story. ELISA GREEN (15) copes with the mental health struggles she’s suffered since her father’s untimely death. She may be more intelligent, sophisticated, and witty than her peers, but these traits manifest as elitism, haughtiness, and condescension, leaving her with few friends. Coupled with a toxic family dynamic, Elisa navigates life with little guidance or companionship. She finds solace in pop culture: art, music, TV, books, films, and fashion. While these interests may be great creative outlets, they distract Elisa from her very real-world problems. She’s failing classes and defies authority, including refusing to communicate with her Mom. Acting with such obstinance, Elisa becomes her own worst enemy and fails to recognize that her behavior may have very serious consequences. As a contrast to masculine angst of The Catcher in the Rye, this semi-autobiographical account of the writer’s childhood offers a powerful female perspective of adolescence.
LOGLINE: LADY BIRD meets THE CATCHER IN THE RYE – As she wavers between championing individuality and seeking acceptance, a 15-year-old girl acts out but fails to recognize that her behavior may have very serious consequences. A semi-accurate recollection of the writer's adolescence.
ELEVATOR PITCH: Set in 1989, CLOSER TO FINE tells a universal, yet uniquely female, coming-of-age story. ELISA GREEN (15) copes with the mental health struggles she’s suffered since her father’s untimely death. She may be more intelligent, sophisticated, and witty than her peers, but these traits manifest as elitism, haughtiness, and condescension, leaving her with few friends. Coupled with a toxic family dynamic, Elisa navigates life with little guidance or companionship. She finds solace in pop culture: art, music, TV, books, films, and fashion. While these interests may be great creative outlets, they distract Elisa from her very real-world problems. She’s failing classes and defies authority, including refusing to communicate with her Mom. Acting with such obstinance, Elisa becomes her own worst enemy and fails to recognize that her behavior may have very serious consequences. As a contrast to masculine angst of The Catcher in the Rye, this semi-autobiographical account of the writer’s childhood offers a powerful female perspective of adolescence.
DADDY ISSUES
Written by Marisa Forrest
"
DADDY ISSUES:
LOGLINE: MR. MOM meets 9 TO 5 – A single, stay-at-home dad must navigate the social and cultural challenges of re-entering the workforce.
ELEVATOR PITCH: CHAD ASHLAND (30/40s) has always been the stay-at-home parent while his wife, ABBY, was the breadwinner. Chad is “Super Dad” to their kids, EMMA (14) and TREY (10). After Abby dies unexpectedly, Chad must get a job. He finally lands at MACK REAL ESTATE, but Chad quickly learns that his lack of professional experience is the least of his worries in today’s corporate world. Mack promotes a progressive culture, but the company’s actions do not reflect its words. Chad ultimately puts his personal agenda aside, utilizes the skills that make him a great father, and rallies with his colleagues to affect change.
DADDY ISSUES is a timely satire that not only deconstructs modern gender roles, but also tackles the controversial aspects of corporate culture. While it offers insightful social commentary, the script conveys its impactful message via a joyous, optimistic story that embodies the hopeful spirit of classic comedies like 9 TO 5 and LEGALLY BLONDE.
It’s set in Philadelphia, a city where the vivacious culture, diverse demographics, and rich history create a vibrant aesthetic that’s as exuberant as (spoiler alert!) the script’s victorious ending.
Highly castable, budget-friendly, PG films are a much sought-after commodity in the streamer-driven marketplace."
DADDY ISSUES:
LOGLINE: MR. MOM meets 9 TO 5 – A single, stay-at-home dad must navigate the social and cultural challenges of re-entering the workforce.
ELEVATOR PITCH: CHAD ASHLAND (30/40s) has always been the stay-at-home parent while his wife, ABBY, was the breadwinner. Chad is “Super Dad” to their kids, EMMA (14) and TREY (10). After Abby dies unexpectedly, Chad must get a job. He finally lands at MACK REAL ESTATE, but Chad quickly learns that his lack of professional experience is the least of his worries in today’s corporate world. Mack promotes a progressive culture, but the company’s actions do not reflect its words. Chad ultimately puts his personal agenda aside, utilizes the skills that make him a great father, and rallies with his colleagues to affect change.
DADDY ISSUES is a timely satire that not only deconstructs modern gender roles, but also tackles the controversial aspects of corporate culture. While it offers insightful social commentary, the script conveys its impactful message via a joyous, optimistic story that embodies the hopeful spirit of classic comedies like 9 TO 5 and LEGALLY BLONDE.
It’s set in Philadelphia, a city where the vivacious culture, diverse demographics, and rich history create a vibrant aesthetic that’s as exuberant as (spoiler alert!) the script’s victorious ending.
Highly castable, budget-friendly, PG films are a much sought-after commodity in the streamer-driven marketplace."
EXPIRED
Written by Wendy Braff
Television (Half-hour) · Comedy
Five female friends over 50 have had enough of being dismissed and ignored by a society that thinks of them as ""expired."" When they decide they're no longer going to give a fuck, their lives truly begin.
www.wendybraff.com"
FIRES OF THE PAST
Written by Andrea King Jasper
"Fires of the Past
By Andrea King Jasper
LOGLINE
A Journalist uncovers secrets regarding her father’s past that leads her into a battle between
reporting truth or lies. The deeper she delves into her family history, she must face her own
insecurities about who she is as a writer, daughter, and lover.
SYNOPSIS
In Fires of the Past, biracial reporter Tonya Jackson, decides a month before her wedding to
probe into her father, Charles Hayes’ past after seeing a white man that resembles a picture her
deceased mother gave her. Tonya, who is a celebrated journalist in New York City wants to get
answers before marrying her Italian American fiancé, Anthony Gianni. As she tries to get
information from her family members, she finds out that the real answers are in Atlanta, GA.
Tonya heads down south and begins her search to find out about a man and heritage she never
knew. She starts her investigation at the University of Georgia looking for answers about her
father’s relatives. She then questions her mother’s old friend at Spelman College about details
regarding her parents. This leads her to a local West End restaurant and an old plantation just
south of the city. As she continues to probe into her past she finds out that her father’s great-great
grandfather was a slave-owner. She also discovers that his son had burned down many Black
families' houses where several people had died. As she continues to learn more about her
heritage she finds out that the African American community hates the Hayes family. She goes
back to New York angry, embarrassed, and ashamed. Tonya begins to despise this side of her
heritage. She breaks off her engagement to Anthony and decides to fully commit to investigating
racial criminal cases.
While investigating a specific case about the rape of a fifteen-year-old Black girl by a white man,
Tonya finds out that her father is the defense attorney. Tonya goes after him fiercely, trying to
find every angle to discredit his client, Munroe Davis. She believes he is guilty and hates her
father for defending such a man. Tonya’s columns in the newspaper and several magazines spew
out venom for Charles and Munroe. She even finds out he was arrested ten years ago for
soliciting sex from a prostitute. Charles tries to show Tonya that his client has been set up but all
she sees is her family’s sins of the past. As she probes deeper into the case she begins to find out
more about her father and that his client may not be guilty. Tonya realizes that she may hold the
key to helping her father clear his client, but she must get beyond her feelings of the past to heal
herself and help an innocent man."
By Andrea King Jasper
LOGLINE
A Journalist uncovers secrets regarding her father’s past that leads her into a battle between
reporting truth or lies. The deeper she delves into her family history, she must face her own
insecurities about who she is as a writer, daughter, and lover.
SYNOPSIS
In Fires of the Past, biracial reporter Tonya Jackson, decides a month before her wedding to
probe into her father, Charles Hayes’ past after seeing a white man that resembles a picture her
deceased mother gave her. Tonya, who is a celebrated journalist in New York City wants to get
answers before marrying her Italian American fiancé, Anthony Gianni. As she tries to get
information from her family members, she finds out that the real answers are in Atlanta, GA.
Tonya heads down south and begins her search to find out about a man and heritage she never
knew. She starts her investigation at the University of Georgia looking for answers about her
father’s relatives. She then questions her mother’s old friend at Spelman College about details
regarding her parents. This leads her to a local West End restaurant and an old plantation just
south of the city. As she continues to probe into her past she finds out that her father’s great-great
grandfather was a slave-owner. She also discovers that his son had burned down many Black
families' houses where several people had died. As she continues to learn more about her
heritage she finds out that the African American community hates the Hayes family. She goes
back to New York angry, embarrassed, and ashamed. Tonya begins to despise this side of her
heritage. She breaks off her engagement to Anthony and decides to fully commit to investigating
racial criminal cases.
While investigating a specific case about the rape of a fifteen-year-old Black girl by a white man,
Tonya finds out that her father is the defense attorney. Tonya goes after him fiercely, trying to
find every angle to discredit his client, Munroe Davis. She believes he is guilty and hates her
father for defending such a man. Tonya’s columns in the newspaper and several magazines spew
out venom for Charles and Munroe. She even finds out he was arrested ten years ago for
soliciting sex from a prostitute. Charles tries to show Tonya that his client has been set up but all
she sees is her family’s sins of the past. As she probes deeper into the case she begins to find out
more about her father and that his client may not be guilty. Tonya realizes that she may hold the
key to helping her father clear his client, but she must get beyond her feelings of the past to heal
herself and help an innocent man."
IT AIN'T OVER YET
Written by Elizabeth Appell
"It Ain’t Over Yet!
Unknown to each other, two heartbroken dames cross paths withdrawing funds from a small bank to run away from abusive husbands. They bump into an elderly gang of ex-cons equipped with canes, walkers, an oxygen tank and a rusty old Glock on a mission to pull off one more heist. The dames discover their strengths when they outfox the goons and escape with their whackers. The madcap chase is on! Written by Elizabeth Appell"
Unknown to each other, two heartbroken dames cross paths withdrawing funds from a small bank to run away from abusive husbands. They bump into an elderly gang of ex-cons equipped with canes, walkers, an oxygen tank and a rusty old Glock on a mission to pull off one more heist. The dames discover their strengths when they outfox the goons and escape with their whackers. The madcap chase is on! Written by Elizabeth Appell"
MAD ART GALLERY
Written by Diane Lansing
"After a severe breakdown as a teen, Cadence, a child prodigy artist stops seeing color. On a
doctor’s advice she stopped painting and drawing for fear of it setting off another breakdown.
She retreats into a marriage with Gerald, a controlling husband. She does research for his
books, yet her buried creative side begins to emerge again. In an attempt to draw she has
another breakdown and ends up in a mental hospital. Here she meets a social worker that tells
her of a gallery he runs of artists with mental illness. Cadence walks all the way to the gallery
from the hospital and begins her journey back to being an artist and helping to save the gallery
from being closed down. She learns she is able to help the other artists work through their
illnesses and they in turn do the same for her. Creating bonds that will change all their lives."
doctor’s advice she stopped painting and drawing for fear of it setting off another breakdown.
She retreats into a marriage with Gerald, a controlling husband. She does research for his
books, yet her buried creative side begins to emerge again. In an attempt to draw she has
another breakdown and ends up in a mental hospital. Here she meets a social worker that tells
her of a gallery he runs of artists with mental illness. Cadence walks all the way to the gallery
from the hospital and begins her journey back to being an artist and helping to save the gallery
from being closed down. She learns she is able to help the other artists work through their
illnesses and they in turn do the same for her. Creating bonds that will change all their lives."
MARBLES
Written by Danielle Elise Olson
"Title: Marbles
Synopsis: In a world where lives are measured by a jar of marbles and our days are literally numbered, a 52 year old woman is coming to terms with and preparing for her final days with her family. As she reminisces the time she's had with her family, her daughter has yet to realize her mom will be gone soon until it's almost too late."
Synopsis: In a world where lives are measured by a jar of marbles and our days are literally numbered, a 52 year old woman is coming to terms with and preparing for her final days with her family. As she reminisces the time she's had with her family, her daughter has yet to realize her mom will be gone soon until it's almost too late."
OPPOSITE SIDES
Written by Kim Broderick
"OPPOSITE SIDES SERIES SYNOPSIS
OPPOSITE SIDES is a one-hour drama series that follows the journey of Cori Clemons, a lesbian heart surgeon. Similar to the storytelling techniques employed by the series, FIREFLY LANE and THIS IS US, through flashbacks, we share in Cori’s evolution from a scared and ashamed girl to a confident woman who, guided by her faith and the power of love, helps others find their truth.
OPPOSITE SIDES begins in Napa, California in 2015 when we meet Cori, at age sixty-one and at a critical juncture in her life. She is contemplating retirement due to a medical issue that nobody knows about; the current mayor's term is about to end and his clever and bigoted potential successor, Frank, forces Cori to consider running for the position; and her thirty-year romantic partner, Dana — a smart and savvy chef — has an enticing offer to establish her own signature restaurant as their wedding draws near. At Cori and Dana’s wedding we meet Cori’s cherished tribe: Pippa, Cori's lifelong pal, her daughter, Mariella, and her granddaughter, Gia, a spirited 10-year-old.
Tension escalates as a political storm brews, dividing local vineyards into opposing factions. This situation becomes tricky for Cori, knowing that her mayoral candidacy might put her at odds with her beloved wife and closest friend. We meet Sam, Dana’s female co-worker, whose romantic interest in Dana is evident. Another conflict emerges when Gia confides in Cori she is being bullied. This revelation stirs painful memories for Cori, who once endured bullying for being a tomboy who didn’t fit in.
A more lighthearted element of the series is Sunday brunch at Cori and Dana’s house. It is here that we participate in the lives of our passionate and diverse characters. We watch Cori and her friends help each other through the ups and downs of life — from steamy romantic encounters to reunions, betrayals and sad goodbyes. A unique aspect of this fifty year journey, is how OPPOSITE SIDES explores Cori’s life transitions that seemingly coincide with social, cultural and political movements in America."
OPPOSITE SIDES is a one-hour drama series that follows the journey of Cori Clemons, a lesbian heart surgeon. Similar to the storytelling techniques employed by the series, FIREFLY LANE and THIS IS US, through flashbacks, we share in Cori’s evolution from a scared and ashamed girl to a confident woman who, guided by her faith and the power of love, helps others find their truth.
OPPOSITE SIDES begins in Napa, California in 2015 when we meet Cori, at age sixty-one and at a critical juncture in her life. She is contemplating retirement due to a medical issue that nobody knows about; the current mayor's term is about to end and his clever and bigoted potential successor, Frank, forces Cori to consider running for the position; and her thirty-year romantic partner, Dana — a smart and savvy chef — has an enticing offer to establish her own signature restaurant as their wedding draws near. At Cori and Dana’s wedding we meet Cori’s cherished tribe: Pippa, Cori's lifelong pal, her daughter, Mariella, and her granddaughter, Gia, a spirited 10-year-old.
Tension escalates as a political storm brews, dividing local vineyards into opposing factions. This situation becomes tricky for Cori, knowing that her mayoral candidacy might put her at odds with her beloved wife and closest friend. We meet Sam, Dana’s female co-worker, whose romantic interest in Dana is evident. Another conflict emerges when Gia confides in Cori she is being bullied. This revelation stirs painful memories for Cori, who once endured bullying for being a tomboy who didn’t fit in.
A more lighthearted element of the series is Sunday brunch at Cori and Dana’s house. It is here that we participate in the lives of our passionate and diverse characters. We watch Cori and her friends help each other through the ups and downs of life — from steamy romantic encounters to reunions, betrayals and sad goodbyes. A unique aspect of this fifty year journey, is how OPPOSITE SIDES explores Cori’s life transitions that seemingly coincide with social, cultural and political movements in America."
OPPOSITION
Written by Eon Song
Log line: Two female lawyers, adversaries in the courtroom and in their personal lives, find their destinies colliding on a critical day, forcing them to reevaluate their choices and relationships.
RISING SUN
Written by Mark C. Spera
A pregnant out of work writer, Jessica Martindale, discovers she’s in line to inherit $10 million from her recently deceased and estranged grandfather, with one problematic stipulation; she must kill Dracula to get it. Her grandfather has left her a cryptic note of clues leading her to a man of Native American heritage, Jonathan Black Crow, who has particular knowledge and visceral hatred of Dracula. As it turns out, the blood thirsty vampire is alive and hunting in the present day. Together they must find Luca and kill him, but little does Jess know that Luca has also been searching for her, as she holds the key to his absolute immortality.
ROMEO AND JULIO
Written by Evie Abat
"Synopsis: A grouchy, new resident of an assisted living facility learns the meaning of love and friendship, when he meets a flamboyant memory care patient."
SPEED-WAY
Written by Angela Lorena Statnik
"Speed-Way (Synopsis)
Set
in California 1962. Susan's neighbors, William and Robert, the brothers Pitts bring the pieces to assemble their home made car-racing track to play with their model cars. Susan peers through the fence craving to play until one day, sneakily she decides to
take off one car from her fathers model’s car collection to play with the neighbors. The 1955 Mercedes 300 model is hard to deny for William, the game’s boss, knowing that the game's rules state that the winner takes the loser's cars. He allows her to play
despite the game being meant to be only for boys.
The
car-race goes on as we see through Susan’ imagination the Corvette, Jaguar and Mercedes competing. Sound of engines growling, tires skidding, and gears shifting, while the kids grunting and whooping through the action almost like in a video game.
Getting
close to the finish line, Susan has a memory which reveals that she and her mother suffer domestic violence. It boosts her with courage, to push towards the finish line, but her car skids over an oil slick letting William’s car be the winner.
At
night, Susan’s father realizes a car is missing from his collection. Transformed in his anger, he beats her up. Simultaneously, Mr Pitts benignly scolds William for taking something it doesn’t belong to him. As they go to return the model Mercedes, they hear
the beating, Mr Pitts bangs on the window trying to help Susan unsuccessfully while William can only hear the commotion.
A
few days later, William sees Susan and her mother fleeing from home, he tries to return Susan's car. But they quickly go away, leaving William sowing the seeds of guilt."
Set
in California 1962. Susan's neighbors, William and Robert, the brothers Pitts bring the pieces to assemble their home made car-racing track to play with their model cars. Susan peers through the fence craving to play until one day, sneakily she decides to
take off one car from her fathers model’s car collection to play with the neighbors. The 1955 Mercedes 300 model is hard to deny for William, the game’s boss, knowing that the game's rules state that the winner takes the loser's cars. He allows her to play
despite the game being meant to be only for boys.
The
car-race goes on as we see through Susan’ imagination the Corvette, Jaguar and Mercedes competing. Sound of engines growling, tires skidding, and gears shifting, while the kids grunting and whooping through the action almost like in a video game.
Getting
close to the finish line, Susan has a memory which reveals that she and her mother suffer domestic violence. It boosts her with courage, to push towards the finish line, but her car skids over an oil slick letting William’s car be the winner.
At
night, Susan’s father realizes a car is missing from his collection. Transformed in his anger, he beats her up. Simultaneously, Mr Pitts benignly scolds William for taking something it doesn’t belong to him. As they go to return the model Mercedes, they hear
the beating, Mr Pitts bangs on the window trying to help Susan unsuccessfully while William can only hear the commotion.
A
few days later, William sees Susan and her mother fleeing from home, he tries to return Susan's car. But they quickly go away, leaving William sowing the seeds of guilt."
THE STAND IN
Written by Renee De Palma & Mary Mackey
A Synopsis by Mary Mackey and Renée De Palma
Copyright 2023 Renée De Palma and Mary Mackey
Jayne Wants To Sample “Ordinary Life.”
Mary Lynn Wants Something More Than “Ordinary.”
What Could Possibly Go Wrong?
How About Everything!
In this hilarious modern day take on Mark Twain’s The Prince and The Pauper, two women trade
lives only to discover that every ordinary life has its extraordinary moments."
THE STRAYS
Written by Eli Rose
TO BE YOUNG N' HOLLYWOOD
Written by Rae Ashe
" Four childhood friends experience transitioning into adulthood on different levels under the
scrutiny of their peers and public eye. Navigating together through the entertainment industry
and new chapters seemingly bring on different emotions from each BFF and tests their once
unbreakable bond. No two situations or personalities are the same. Chelsea, Desiree, Ethan and
Baige find solace within their uniquely aligned friendships while tackling their generations
drama of social media, cancel culture and simply adulting. Losing identities, finding peace,
understanding balance, body dysmorphia, talent struggles and dealing with youth ageism- all
while trying to stay relevant is what it feels like To Be Young N’ Hollywood."
scrutiny of their peers and public eye. Navigating together through the entertainment industry
and new chapters seemingly bring on different emotions from each BFF and tests their once
unbreakable bond. No two situations or personalities are the same. Chelsea, Desiree, Ethan and
Baige find solace within their uniquely aligned friendships while tackling their generations
drama of social media, cancel culture and simply adulting. Losing identities, finding peace,
understanding balance, body dysmorphia, talent struggles and dealing with youth ageism- all
while trying to stay relevant is what it feels like To Be Young N’ Hollywood."
UNDER PRESSURE
Written by Steven Smith
Logline: Two terrified drug smugglers and an innocent young couple fight to survive after a tiny narco-sub gets tangled in the lifeline connecting an underwater Airbnb to the surface.
Synopsis for UNDER PRESSURE:
Julianna and Hector may drown. The tiny narco-sub they’re piloting is packed with fentanyl and cocaine.
It was poorly built and it’s leaking badly as it powers across the Caribbean toward Texas.
They have one over-riding goal, to deliver the product before sinking. With the money he makes
Hector’s going to quit smuggling and start a family. The one he’s always wanted since growing up alone
on the streets of Mexico City. He never wanted to be a criminal and he’s jealous of people who live
ordinary lives.
Julianna’s husband had agreed to haul drugs for the Cartel in their family fishing boat. After she talked
him out of it they sank the boat and murdered him. Now she either fulfills his commitment or they’ll kill
her daughters.
Hector and Julianna are locked inside “El Ataud” (“The Coffin,” as smugglers refer to these horrible semi-
submersible boats) and the only people with the tools to open the hatch are the off-loaders they’re
supposed to rendezvous with. They either deliver the drugs or die.
Nearby, just off the coast of Panama, Kayla and Cameron, a young couple trying to re-ignite their
relationship, have rented one of the world’s most unusual Airbnb hotels. Situated under 60 feet of water
in a remote tropical lagoon, they’re spending two days in a tiny underwater lodge. Cameron hoped Kayla
would love the adventure and instead she sees it as a huge waste of money. How can she commit to
someone so frivolous?
Fighting bad weather at sea Julianna and Hector look for a place to wait out the storm. They choose the
same lagoon as the one holding the underwater lodge. The fates of all four people collide when El Ataud
hits the lifeline connecting the underwater lodge to the surface and gets tangled.
Trapped in the sinking sub, Julianna and Hector don’t know what’s happened. At the other end of the
umbilical wrapped around the sub’s propeller, the lodge Cameron and Kayla are in has been yanked off
its supports, blocking the entrance. It's filling with water and Kayla and Cameron are also trapped.
All four people have to figure out what happened, how to fix it, and how to work together with people
they’ve never met to have any chance of survival.
Additional notes:
This is script was designed to limit production costs by using four characters in two locations for 99%
of the film. It was also designed to be shot on dry land. Out of 8,920 scripts this year it placed
second for a Page Fellowship and just won the Grand Prize in the Fade In Thriller Awards."
Synopsis for UNDER PRESSURE:
Julianna and Hector may drown. The tiny narco-sub they’re piloting is packed with fentanyl and cocaine.
It was poorly built and it’s leaking badly as it powers across the Caribbean toward Texas.
They have one over-riding goal, to deliver the product before sinking. With the money he makes
Hector’s going to quit smuggling and start a family. The one he’s always wanted since growing up alone
on the streets of Mexico City. He never wanted to be a criminal and he’s jealous of people who live
ordinary lives.
Julianna’s husband had agreed to haul drugs for the Cartel in their family fishing boat. After she talked
him out of it they sank the boat and murdered him. Now she either fulfills his commitment or they’ll kill
her daughters.
Hector and Julianna are locked inside “El Ataud” (“The Coffin,” as smugglers refer to these horrible semi-
submersible boats) and the only people with the tools to open the hatch are the off-loaders they’re
supposed to rendezvous with. They either deliver the drugs or die.
Nearby, just off the coast of Panama, Kayla and Cameron, a young couple trying to re-ignite their
relationship, have rented one of the world’s most unusual Airbnb hotels. Situated under 60 feet of water
in a remote tropical lagoon, they’re spending two days in a tiny underwater lodge. Cameron hoped Kayla
would love the adventure and instead she sees it as a huge waste of money. How can she commit to
someone so frivolous?
Fighting bad weather at sea Julianna and Hector look for a place to wait out the storm. They choose the
same lagoon as the one holding the underwater lodge. The fates of all four people collide when El Ataud
hits the lifeline connecting the underwater lodge to the surface and gets tangled.
Trapped in the sinking sub, Julianna and Hector don’t know what’s happened. At the other end of the
umbilical wrapped around the sub’s propeller, the lodge Cameron and Kayla are in has been yanked off
its supports, blocking the entrance. It's filling with water and Kayla and Cameron are also trapped.
All four people have to figure out what happened, how to fix it, and how to work together with people
they’ve never met to have any chance of survival.
Additional notes:
This is script was designed to limit production costs by using four characters in two locations for 99%
of the film. It was also designed to be shot on dry land. Out of 8,920 scripts this year it placed
second for a Page Fellowship and just won the Grand Prize in the Fade In Thriller Awards."
WHO I AM
Written by Jaimy Gardner
SYNOPSIS:
Just as it only takes a spark to start a fire, it only takes one chance encounter to reinvigorate a forgotten and abandoned dream. Inspired by true events, this story is about a young woman who traded away her dream to be a professional ballet dancer for a corporate career, only to realize years later that despite her best attempts, her passion and love for dance never died.
Just as it only takes a spark to start a fire, it only takes one chance encounter to reinvigorate a forgotten and abandoned dream. Inspired by true events, this story is about a young woman who traded away her dream to be a professional ballet dancer for a corporate career, only to realize years later that despite her best attempts, her passion and love for dance never died.
HALLOW’S POINT
Written by Brian W. Smith
"Hallow's Point"
On a weekend book tour in a seaside town, a bestselling author of vampire novels fears the welcoming residents are blending her fiction with a terrifying reality. Joined by her feisty publicist and a photographer, she uncovers a forgotten past and a power within that may be her only hope to survive.
On a weekend book tour in a seaside town, a bestselling author of vampire novels fears the welcoming residents are blending her fiction with a terrifying reality. Joined by her feisty publicist and a photographer, she uncovers a forgotten past and a power within that may be her only hope to survive.
GENDER SWITCH
Written by Tristan Venture
When a newly installed 5G Cellular Tower malfunctions and causes a career-oriented woman and eternal man-child to switch bodies they must learn to accept their differences before destroying each other’s lives.
PORCELAIN
Written by Christine Makepeace
Amid rising bills and domestic squabbles, an aimless 20-something’s latest grind turns deadly when she starts selling haunted dolls as a side hustle.
DEAN'S LIST
Written by Brian W. Smith
A college student suspects her fellow seniors are falling prey to a bloodthirsty cult on campus and fears she may be next.
TREE
Written by Kristin Burniston
Set in 1918 London during the Spanish Flu epidemic, TREE is a tragicomedy about LULU, a magician’s assistant and HARRY, a magician. One night, a tree appears outside their window. Lulu can see it, but Harry can’t. Who is to say what is real - and what isn’t?
BAWDY SHOTS
Written by Dionne Wynn
To the world Dr. Stacy Jackson is Dr ATL. Smart, beautiful and accomplished; but Stacy has secrets. The kind of secrets that can be hidden under designer clothing only but so long. One day a face from her past shows up in her office, and the pent-up rage that Stacy has carried since her youth and she decides to use her position for some deadly payback. This unleashes a power Stacy’s never felt before and she morphs into the malevolent dominatrix, DOM. and Dom wants blood. Assigned to the case of missing and murdered victims are Special agents Brenda Johnson and Jamal Braxton. A game of cat and mouse ensues. Can they catch a killer before either of them take a Bawdy Shot ?
SELECTED SCRIPTS
2023 OFFICIAL SELECTIONS
WRITTEN WORD
OFFICIAL FEATURE SCRIPTS AND SCREENPLAYS:
-
THE STAND IN
-
RISING SUN
-
CLOSER TO FINE
-
DADDY ISSUES
-
IT AIN'T OVER YET
-
THE STRAYS
-
HALLOW’S POINT
-
OPPOSITE SIDES
-
THE SILVER CUP
-
QUEEN OF HEARTS
-
BLACKNESS OF SPACE, WHITENESS OF BONES
-
LEAVING VACAVILLE
-
MAD ART GALLERY
-
FIRES OF THE PAST
-
EXPIRED
-
QUARRY
-
UNDER PRESSURE
-
OPERATION MOM
-
GENDER SWITCH
-
PORCELAIN
-
DEAN'S LIST
SHORT SCRIPTS (Under 10 pages)
-
TREE
-
BAWDY SHOTS
-
CANDY PUPPET
SYNOPSIS FOR FILM OR TV (2 pages or less)
-
ONLY A WOMAN
-
GAME-FAINT SIGNALS
-
THE STRAYS
-
TO BE YOUNG N' HOLLYWOOD
UNDER FORTY PAGES (SCRIPTS AND TELEPLAYS)
-
MARBLES
-
WHO I AM
-
ROMEO AND JULIO
-
HOME(SICK)
-
OPPOSITION
-
ANOTHER SATURDAY
-
SPEED-WAY
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