MOTH
Synopsis
Christine, an Asian American woman in her 30’s, makes a confession about a man she murdered -- She was forced to be “a part of him” and felt like something was rotting and sinister inside him. It is revealed that this is an audition for a low budget crime thriller. Christine is really a washed-up actress who was famous for a short time. She strives to leave a good impression on the director and producer (Archie and Bobby) by complimenting their script. On her way out, she sees a plethora of younger actresses waiting their turn. She leaves, feeling empty and defeated.
Christine visits James (her ex husband) and Annie (her daughter). Annie is excited to see Christine. The two play tea par- ty with a toy bear Christine brought. While James cooks, Christine asks if he can take Annie for an extra few days, as she has an important audition she must attend. James is disappointed and tells Christine that Annie misses her.
Christine dances in a Zumba class, but something stirs within her. Then, at home, she feels restless and starts to clean. She receives a phone call from her agent, who delivers an invitation to a premiere and after party. He tells her she should go, it’ll be a good opportunity for exposure and networking.
Christine gets her photos taken in front of a step and repeat along with other C and D-listers. Outside the after party, Christine runs into Archie and Bobby’s entourage. The group invite her in for a drink. She concedes.
In the club, over extremely loud music, Christine asks Archie about the role she auditioned for. Archie suggests sexual fa- vors if she wants his help -- Christine is uncomfortable, but agrees to dance with Archie. As they dance and begin to make out, Christine sees a large eye displayed on the LED ceiling. Something stirs within her, so she pushes Archie off and storms out the club. Three go-go dancers perform an elaborate dance to the strobing lights and techno music. Outside, streaks of streetlights form hypnotic patterns.
Christine jolts awake in the middle of the night. She goes to smoke a cigarette in front of the window. Outside, a helicopter breaks the silence of the night. The searchlight shines in Christine’s window, illuminating her. Her shadow shifts around her apartment, across her posters, family photos, objects of her past. She becomes emotional and slowly kneels down.
Her back suddenly breaks open, and a human sized moth emerges out of the shell of her body. It expands its wings, takes one last look of the room, and flies out the window.
Outside, the city of Los Angeles sleeps quietly under the night sky.
Technical specifications
- Language:English
- Release:September 10, 2018
- Duration:17 min
