Being Here

LOGLINE
On a family boat trip, a closeted queer woman faces a turning point when her younger sister finds a hidden pride flag, leading both sisters to see each other in a new light.

SYNOPSIS
Growing up in a suffocating small town, Valerie, a closeted queer woman, has always found peace in the water. As she prepares for a life-changing move to New York City, a final family boat trip forces her to confront her complicated relationship with her sister, Riley. The trip is overshadowed by Riley’s discovery of a pride flag in one of Valerie’s moving bags, leaving Valerie anxious and on edge.

The boat trip is further disrupted when Riley invites friends aboard, turning a peaceful farewell for Valerie into a chaotic environment. Overwhelmed by the intrusion and the perpetual anxiety of being outed, Valerie constantly seeks solitude as refuge from the uncomfortable situations. Riley, unsure how to initiate a conversation about her discovery, continues to treat Valerie as she always does but starts to see her in a new light. In this forced proximity, tensions rise, and Valerie’s internal struggle becomes palpable.

As the party continues, Riley’s friend spills a drink on Valerie. Frustrated at her sister’s dismissiveness and overwhelming feeling of being trapped in the chaos, Valerie escapes into the water. Submerged, she experiences clarity, bringing a sense of calm that contrasts sharply with the unfamiliar world above.

As the journey concludes and the boat party dies out, Riley approaches Valerie on the bow, leading to a meaningful moment between the sisters and an understanding of their differences.