The Story
This feature length dramedy follows Jess's journey through the loss of her identity, the uniting with her birth family, its impact on her adoptive family and the effect of the two families colliding.
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All that matters to Jess is that she finds the truth of who she is. She doesn't consider what it might do to others.
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Her birth mother slams the door in her face and Jess returns the next day even more determined to gain entry.
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The story explores what happens when two families, both shaped by traumatic events, are forced to confront their shared past and uncertain future.
The Families
The McHales
Jessica's adoptive parents believe that Jess was the gift that made their thriving family possible. Jess is the "leader of the pack" in this loving, successful American family.
The Colons
Jessica's birth parents in Colombia believe "the baby" died at birth and have never discussed it with their two sons. It is a private wound, a deep scar running through the family that is ripped open with the ring of a doorbell.
Key Characters
JESSICA "JESS" MCHALE
The eldest of five discovers her adoption and is compelled to find her birth family regardless of the consequences.
THE MCHALE PARENTS - KATE AND LIAM
Jess's loving adoptive parents who built their cherished family around her and must now face the possibility of losing her to her birth family.
THE COLON PARENTS - ALEJANDRA AND DANIEL
Jess's birth parents in Colombia who believed their daughter died at birth and have spent years carrying this private trauma.
CARMEN LODONO-HERNANDEZ
Alejandra's mother, the matriarch and keeper of the truth.
Core Themes + Tone
Tone - Realistic and Urgent
Tone - Trauma-informed storytelling
1. The Search for Identity and Truth
2. The Impact of Secrets on Family Dynamics
3. The Consequences of Good Intentions
4. Cultural Identity and Belonging