Filmoiselle

ANGEL is a poignant short film directed by Anna Koukouli Born that dives into the complex themes of grief, alcoholism, and family dynamics. Originally conceived as a therapeutic exercise to process her father's passing, a retired Navy officer grappling with addiction, the film explores the emotional intricacies that surround loss. Set during the Gutierrez family’s struggle to navigate their father's funeral, ANGEL poignantly captures the unspoken tensions between siblings Elvira and Jake, played by Rachael Hip-Flores and Jarrod Bogan, as they confront their father's legacy of alcoholism.

Nicole Ansari-Cox delivers a stunning performance as their mother, Sarah, capturing the turmoil of a woman trying to honor her husband amidst years of unresolved pain. The film balances dark humor and raw emotional truths, resonating with anyone familiar with military family struggles. Achieving critical recognition at various film festivals, including the Manhattan Film Festival, ANGEL serves as a powerful commentary on the often-overlooked realities of veterans' families, making it a must-see for those seeking a deeper understanding of this vital subject