WRITER & DIRECTER & EDITOR

STARRING

Olushola Grace Fagbamila Jean Shin Vavra

Lisa Ginel Rachel Kang

See full production team & film details here

"Candies" is a very intimate, personal story for me. The idea of creating a story that focuses on mother-daughter relationships sprouted from the seed of a love-hate relationship with my own "tiger mom." But, the plot evolved into the story of a young woman who struggles with addictions, mental illness, and mothering issues after witnessing my husband thrive in recovery as an addict after a life-awakening DUI car accident.

In the room, people call addiction a disease. They don’t have control over their addiction or disease because they are given very limited options in at-risk environments or are genetically disposed, which leads them to substance abuse. The judgment that society often casts upon them without delving into their deeply rooted traumas became a compelling impetus for me to tell this story. My aspiration is to provide audiences with a fresh lens, inviting them to step into the shoes of these individuals, see the world through their eyes, and extend the hand of understanding that empathizes with their humanity. Everyone makes mistakes and desires to be accepted.

Acceptance is a key theme in this film. Whether it is the storyline of Candice struggling with her addiction or reconciling with her estranged ex-addict mother, the path to healing unfurls upon the foundation of self-acceptance. Just as Candice summons the courage to acknowledge her vulnerabilities and ask for help, so too must she traverse the terrain of embracing her mother's imperfections—a crucial stride towards forgiveness.

In "Candies," my hope is to weave connections—bridges spanning diverse experiences, perspectives, and emotions. It stands as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for renewal, empathy, and the transformative voyage towards self-love and compassion for others.

2024 Old Towne Film Festival Best Perception Film

2024 CCASU Film Awards Third Place Winner

2024 Top Short March Festival Best Narrative Film

2024 Top Short March Festival Best Original Story

2024 Top Short March Festival Best Actress, Olushola Grace Fagbamila

Currently in festival circuit