Private Project

first date?

In "first Date?", a short film by 21-year-old filmmaker Kylie Ramirez from DePaul University, the complexities of modern dating and Gen-Z relationships take center stage. Sammy's friendship with Kari unexpectedly shifts when she learns that Kari perceived their night out as a date. As the two friends navigate this revelation, the film explores the blurred lines between friendship and romance, leaving audiences with a poignant reflection on the fluid nature of connection in the digital age.

  • Kylie Ramirez
    Director
  • Kylie Ramirez
    Writer
  • Leen Rihani
    Producer
    Winter, Strawberry Week, Beth
  • Zofia Ossowska
    Key Cast
    "Kari"
  • Caroline Friend
    Key Cast
    "Sammy"
  • Cecil Lay
    Director of Photography
  • Kylie Ramirez
    Editor
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Genres:
    Coming-of-age, Drama, Slice-of-life, Comedy
  • Runtime:
    7 minutes 55 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    March 31, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    500 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Sony FX6
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - DePaul University
  • DePaul Premiere Film Festival
    Chicago
    United States
    June 2, 2023
    Official Selection (Nominations: Best Directing, Best Ensemble, Best Screenplay)
  • Big Shoulders International Student Film Festival
    Chicago
    United States
    March 2, 2024
    Official Selection, Best Screenplay (Nominations: Best Fiction Film, Best Ensemble, Best Screenplay)
  • CineYouth Film Festival
    Chicago
    United States
    April 20, 2024
    Official Selection: Comedy
  • Chicago LatinX Film Festival
    Chicago
    November 12, 2023
    Official Selection
Director Biography - Kylie Ramirez

A native Chicagoan of Puerto Rican descent, Kylie Ramirez's experiences span from filmmaking to studio art to stage acting and directing. As a life-long multi-sport athlete, her dedication toward excellence is evident in all her pursuits. Her multi-genre work engages viewers in relevant issues and fresh perspectives.

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Director Statement

Director's Statement:
In this short, I aim to portray different viewpoints from two Gen-Z women on their approaches to relationships. The character Kari is sexually liberated and keeps a record of her experiences on an excel sheet, while Sammy is more reserved and has only been in one situationship. Although these two characters are sexually fluid, this is not a film that challenges an audience’s view on LGBTQ individuals but rather one that challenges their views on how to approach relationships with others. Through the word choice, topics, sound, look, and edit of this film, I hope I’ve given justice to the Gen-Z experience in this slice-of-life piece.