Hold On

A loving husband grapples with perceived failure as he remembers his last day with his terminally ill wife.

  • Chanté Marlena Lewis
    Director
    Samsara
  • Chanté Marlena Lewis
    Writer
    Samsara
  • Chanté Marlena Lewis
    Producer
  • Jeremy Alan Richards
    Producer
  • Kevin Welbeck
    Key Cast
    "Gabe"
  • Aubrie Christine
    Key Cast
    "Camille"
  • Hailey Elise
    Key Cast
    "Bella"
  • Chanté Marlena Lewis
    Key Cast
    "Denise"
    Pariah, 30 Rock
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Runtime:
    11 minutes 13 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    October 7, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    10,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Chanté Marlena Lewis

A New York native (Harlem baby!) currently residing in Los Angeles, Chanté Lewis, is a writer, director, actor, and founder of Trance Ending Films, an independent film company.

Several years ago, Chanté discovered her deep passion for storytelling at church, as she witnessed how moved the congregation became by her work. Ever since, her writing has focused on reaching her audience's heart, with hopes to empower and transform their human experience. Chanté aims to tap into the well of emotion that flows from the stuff that's hard for people to talk about.

Chanté studied screenwriting in 2017 at UCLA's School of Film and Television. In 2020, she joined the Women of Color Filmmakers and made two films. "Samsara," created in the inaugural 2021 Summer Lab, weaves her love for sci-fi/fantasy with the quest for self-love. "Hold On," the recipient of three awards and created as a mentee in the inaugural 2023 Director's lab, glimpses the loss of a loved one due to terminal illness and the mental anguish endured in grief.

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Director Statement

Chanté Marlena Lewis is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of experimental storytelling through the integration of entertainment, healing, and social activism. She is currently developing her first full-length feature, I Declare War, which examines the family dynamics and child custody inspired by her own experience in family court. "Hold On" reflects her dedication to addressing important social issues through her work. With this film, she aims to raise awareness and drive meaningful conversations in partnership with nonprofits, healthcare, and educational institutions.