LEECH
While stuck on vacation at a lakeside motel, 11-year-old Frankie must overcome her fear of leeches to exact revenge on her older sister’s summer fling.
ABOUT THE FILM
Leech is an intimate and unsettling coming-of-age short film — an exploration of young womanhood, the loss of innocence, and one’s struggle to reclaim agency in an otherwise powerless position.
The beating heart of the film is the bond between Frankie and Julie, two sisters navigating different stages of girlhood.
DIRECTOR’S STATEMENT
As a filmmaker, I am fascinated by the moments of our youth that define us, pull us into adulthood, and shape how we understand the world.
The fear of leeches imposed on Frankie by Charlie transforms over the course of the film into this act of revenge, of reclamation in defense of her sister and herself. The process of writing this film was a way for me to grapple with the helplessness, anger, and pain that comes with supporting loved ones through experiences of sexual violence and living through a political moment that threatens and disregards women’s bodily autonomy.
While the film explores themes of consent and coming-of-age, its emotional core is Frankie and Julie’s love for each other. It is a tribute to my own older sister who has always been my role model, confidant, and protector.
CREDITS
Director: Maggie Brill (@bymaggiebrill)
Producers: Tiana Cantu (@tianacantu) + Roya Alidjani (@roya.alidjani)
Production Company: Ladytrap Productions (@ladytrapproductions)
Director of Photography: Sarah Greenbaum (@sgb__dp)
We can accept donations via Zelle (through your bank account) @ fiscal@woodstockfilmfestival.org or by check (made out and sent to Woodstock Film Festival, PO Box 1406, Woodstock, NY 12498) or ACH/wire transfer for any amount. Please clearly note you are donating to LEECH.
LEECH is a fiscally sponsored project of The Woodstock Film Festival, Inc. a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Your generous contribution will support an outreach campaign to help LEECH reach a wide audience.
Please contact fiscal@woodstockfilmfestival.org for any questions regarding donations.
Fiscally Sponsored Projects