The Guest
A young woman searches for belonging. The Guest is a gripping neo-noir short film that delves into the complexities of survival, perception, and human resilience. Directed by sisters Amsara Sekhita Mai Holly and Maasatimbala Sanefer Miling Holly, the film follows a young woman navigating the harsh realities of homelessness. She carefully constructs a world where she can blend in, while seeking moments of normalcy and dignity.
When an unexpected opportunity arises, she finds herself as a guest - a temporary reprieve from the uncertainty of the streets. But as the lines between safety and vulnerability blur, the film forces the audience to question the societal assumptions placed upon those experiencing homelessness.
Shot in a raw, intimate style on an iPhone, The Guest immerses viewers in a haunting yet deeply human story that challenges preconceptions about security, belonging, and the lengths people go to in search of a place to call home. With its atmospheric cinematography, the film sheds light on an often-overlooked reality, leaving audiences with a lingering sense of reflection.
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Amsara Sekhita Mai HollyDirectorTill Now We Stand, Rhythms of Djembe, The Wire
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Maasatimbala Sanefer Miling HollyDirectorTill Now We Stand
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Amsara Sekhita Mai HollyWriter
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Maasatimbala Sanefer Miling HollyWriter
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Ariana Shring HollyWriter
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Taia HollyWriter
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Amsara Sekhita Mai HollyProducer
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Maasatimbala Sanefer Miling HollyProducer
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Carla HollyProducer
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Ariana Shring HollyProducer
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Taia Maati Khum HollyProducer
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Sebia HowardProducer
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Niya RoysterProducer
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Ariana Shring HollyKey Cast"Marie"
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Amsara Sekhita Mai HollyKey Cast"Mariah"
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Taia Maati Khum HollyKey Cast"Brittany"
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Project Type:Short
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Genres:Drama
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Runtime:10 minutes
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Completion Date:July 10, 2024
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Production Budget:7,000 USD
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Country of Origin:United States, United States
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Country of Filming:United States, United States
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Language:English
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Shooting Format:iPhone 12 Pro Max, Digital
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Aspect Ratio:16:9
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Film Color:Black & White and Color
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First-time Filmmaker:Yes
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Student Project:No
Amsara Sekhita Mai Holly and Maasatimbala "Sanefer" Miling Holly are the visionary directors behind the compelling short film "The Guest." Amsara, the eldest of the Holly sisters, brings a wealth of experience from her background in performing arts and her leadership role in the vocal group, Holly Girlz. With a keen eye for storytelling and a passion for cultural representation, Amsara's directorial approach is both nuanced and powerful. Sanefer, also a member of Holly Girlz, complements this dynamic with her creative versatility as an actress, singer, and music producer. Together, they have seamlessly blended their talents to create a narrative that explores themes of identity, belonging, and human connection. Their collaboration on "The Guest" marks a significant milestone in their careers, showcasing their ability to transcend traditional boundaries in the arts and deliver a resonant cinematic experience, representing the Holly Girlz brand.
"The Guest" delves into the often-overlooked realities of homelessness, challenging societal preconceptions and highlighting the profound lengths individuals will go to find security and a place to call home. Directed by Amsara Sekhita Mai Holly and Maasatimbala "Sanefer" Miling Holly, this film aims to evoke empathy and introspection, encouraging audiences to question their assumptions about the unhoused. Through subtle storytelling and nuanced characters, we aspire to shed light on and foster a deeper understanding and compassion for those facing such circumstances.