SUGAR BEACH, 90min., USA
Directed by Noely Mendoza
Rosalyn, a wealthy and talented high school senior, grapples with immense grief after the loss of her brother in a surfing accident. The void left behind by his absence consumes her, and she begins a descent into addiction—alcohol becoming her solace as she numbs the pain and confusion. Amidst her downward spiral, she finds herself in a complex relationship with two other people, Isaac, and Emma. Drawn to the comfort and sweetness of their affection, the throuple provides a fleeting sense of escape, but Rosalyn's internal struggle with grief and substance abuse complicates her search for self-love, growth, healing and identity.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
Zoe (writer / lead) brought me the script, and right away I was drawn to the heart of it. I loved the premise: young women boldly going after what they want even when the world tells them otherwise. It felt rebellious, alive, and necessary. I wanted to explore that hunger and that freedom on screen.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
All in, it took about five years. In a way, the film grew up with me, and I think you can feel that in the finished piece.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Intimate. Visceral.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Everything was an obstacle. Making an independent film means constant challenges with money, time, resources, and even just getting people to believe in the vision. The hardest part was keeping the faith when things kept falling apart, and still pushing forward anyway. Perseverance became my daily practice.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I felt completely overwhelmed in the best way. It is such a vulnerable thing to put your work out there, and hearing that it resonated so strongly with people made me feel joy, relief, and a deep sense of connection.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
At 13 years old. I remember watching films and realizing they could shape how people see the world, and I knew then that this was what I wanted to dedicate my life to.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
The Fall by Tarsem Singh. Its visual poetry and emotional core have stayed with me for years.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Support with barriers of entry would make a big difference, such as travel assistance, childcare, or more accessible networking opportunities. Festivals are such a lifeline for filmmakers, and making them easier to attend and participate in would open so many doors.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experience been working on the festival platform site?
It has been straightforward and reliable. The system makes the submission process feel manageable, which is huge for filmmakers juggling so many moving pieces.

10. What is your favorite meal?
A falafel wrap, simple, fresh, and full of flavor.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
Yes, I am working on The Sugar Beach Trilogy. The first film is complete, and now I am building toward the full arc of the trilogy. It is a deeply personal and ambitious project, and I am excited to keep expanding this world.