SIFTers Kristal Sotomayor (writer/director) and Bettina Escauriza (producer) are in production for their film LAS COSAS QUE BRILLAN which began as a BlackStar Filmmaker Lab short film. Please consider donating to their GiveButter crowdfunding campaign…
Synopsis
Las Cosas Que Brillan follows Marisol, a young Trans Latina mermaid, as she navigates the complexities of identity, family, and environmental destruction in her coastal community. Set in a world where magical realism blends with historical fiction, Marisol must face the harsh realities of a world that threatens her existence while finding strength within herself and her community. This visually stunning short film tells a story of resilience, self-discovery, and hope, celebrating the beauty and power of those who fight for their place in the world.
About the Project
Las Cosas Que Brillan is a narrative short film that explores the intersections of identity, belonging, and environmental justice through the eyes of Marisol, a Trans Latina mermaid. Inspired by myth and folklore, the film blends magical realism with a vibrant visual style, evoking classic cinematic motifs inspired by Georges Méliès. At its core, this film is about the strength it takes to thrive in an environment that is both beautiful and destructive, capturing Marisol’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Produced through the prestigious BlackStar Filmmaker Lab, this film showcases the resilience and richness of the Latinx and LGBTQ+ communities. We are so thankful to have additional community support from Maestro Filmworks and Big Picture Alliance. Las Cosas Que Brillan is a love letter to those who defy societal expectations and fight for the right to exist in a world that often tries to erase them. We’re so excited to have support from established institutions and to have your support as we build this world. Our goal is to raise $25,000 to cover the final stages of production and post-production.
How Your Contribution Will Make an Impact
By supporting Las Cosas Que Brillan, you are directly uplifting underrepresented voices and stories in film. This project centers around the lived experiences of Latinx and LGBTQ+ communities and highlights environmental justice issues impacting marginalized communities. Your donation will not only help us finish the film but will also foster important conversations around identity, resilience, and the fight for justice.