Private Project

I Can't Protect You

Based on true events, "I Can't Protect You" explores the intricate bonds of sisterhood in the midst of a life-altering cancer diagnosis. Natalie, attempting to manage her diagnosis alone, seeks solace in a double life of strangers and alcohol. Her younger sister, Nicole, senses the growing rift but hesitates to confront her. One fateful night, their two worlds collide, revealing Natalie's duplicity and forcing them to confront her illness and their strained relationship. "I Can't Protect You" is a raw exploration of love, coping, and family resilience, offering a gripping and ultimately hopeful narrative for those who have grappled with adversity within a family.

  • Lauren Cantell
    Director
  • Lauren Cantell
    Writer
  • Lauren Cantell
    Producer
  • Bara Kim
    Producer
  • Lauren Cantell
    Key Cast
    "Natalie"
  • Alice Skok
    Key Cast
    "Nicole"
  • Steve Hauser
    Key Cast
    "Davis"
  • Chris Periko
    Key Cast
    "Evan"
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Drama, Family
  • Runtime:
    13 minutes 31 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    August 31, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    14,000 USD
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
Director Biography - Lauren Cantell

Lauren Cantell is an actor, director, and writer based in Los Angeles by way of Philadelphia. Following a cancer diagnosis and being faced with her own mortality, Lauren began acting and making films - what she has always wanted to do. This is her directorial debut.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

One night in 2014, like many nights before, I came home intoxicated after a Hinge date and snuck into my bedroom while my sister and her boyfriend were asleep in the other. I undressed out of view of my mirror, removed my wig, and accidentally caught a glimpse of myself. I had a moment of disgust that haunted me for years, which I swore I'd take to the grave, but ultimately inspired this film.

I existed in two realities; one was a cancer patient, sister, daughter, and "warrior". The other was an isolated, scared, deceitful, envious drunk. Relationships were strained. Many arguments were had.

In making “I Can’t Protect You”, I wanted to subvert the "brave / warrior" cancer patient and the "understanding and ever-tolerant caregiver" archetypes. I wanted to show the raw and human experience of illness in a family and the various layers it unearths. I hope that this film helps anyone experiencing something similar feel seen and less alone.