Hot Chocolate

The idea for this story was drawn from my own experience as an international student. I studied abroad three times and each time I would experience some form of culture shock. The first time was when I went to France for a bachelor degree, I couldn’t absorb all the different things in the new environment and that frustrated me. I was so depressed that I ended up quitting school and went back home after six months.

This time, after three months of living in the U.S., it finally hit me once again. It was around the holiday season when people started planning their trips back to visit their family and loved ones. I couldn’t go back because an international flight ticket would cost me a fortune. As a result, I was stuck here and the feeling of nostalgia was actually making my homesickness worse. Instead of withdrawing from society like I did before, I decided to express myself the best way I can, to make a film.

I often found myself sitting in my student apartment and did not feel like I was at home. That is the reason why sincerely feel empathy with the homeless people out there who don't have any place to call home at all. I wondered where they would go and who they would spend time with during the holidays when it was cold outside.

It was a surprise for me to see so many homeless people on the street since the U.S. is such a wealthy country. This is obviously a social issue that is not easily solved. I'm sure many good-hearted people will feel connected to my story.

By making this film, I hope to send a message about giving and sharing and encourage others to do a good deed every day no matter how small it is. A simple cup of hot chocolate in the freezing winter could make a cold heart feel warmer.