LOGLINE
“Moon Over Sorrento” is a quirky comedy about a spirited family living in Tampa, Florida, who confronts a pending tragedy: living with cancer. We follow Monica, a devoted wife and mother, leading a spirited family after she’s diagnosed with a brain tumor. Monica’s unwavering positivity inspires unity, and with faith, she turns adversity into growth, and the family rises to the occasion.
SYNOPSIS
“Moon Over Sorrento” follows the journey of Monica, the vibrant heart of the Collins family, alongside her husband, Roger, daughters Sarah and Nikki, and their beloved chihuahua, Rocco. Monica, a devoted wife and mother, has long harbored a dream of becoming a dress designer, a passion deferred by the demands of family life. As her daughters grow into adulthood, Monica seizes the chance to pursue her creative calling, designing her niece’s wedding gown for the picturesque setting of Sorrento, Italy. Yet, amidst her newfound purpose, Monica’s joy is shadowed by unexplained faintness and nausea, leading to a sobering diagnosis: a brain tumor. Despite the daunting news, Monica remains resolute, refusing to succumb to despair. Roger, recognizing the need to prioritize family, adjusts his busy schedule to offer unwavering support. Surprising Monica with tickets to Sorrento, he kindles a spark of hope amid uncertainty. Determined to see her vision through, Monica draws upon her inner strength to complete the wedding dress, a labor of love that symbolizes her unwavering spirit. Against the backdrop of Sorrento’s moonlit skies, the Collins family gathers, united in love and resilience. As they gaze upon the moon over Sorrento, they find solace in each other’s company, a testament to the enduring power of family bonds in the face of adversity.
THE INSPIRATION
Thank you for this opportunity. We’ve put our hearts into creating a short for the long form of Moon Over Sorrento and have even edited a trailer for the purpose of completing the short film version, one step closer to realizing the entire 90-minute story that’s already waiting in script form. This film means the world to us—especially now.
How it all started: my writing partner, Marie, introduced me to her friend Cynthia, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor. She was a fighter living a life of resilience and hope to the end. Ultimately, she lost the battle to that tumor. Meeting the two, Marie and Cynthia, inspired me to write this story, and through it, I want to honor the preciousness of life, our ability to grow, and the enduring need for faith and strong family bonds.
Finding a grant to finish the short film would take us one step further on this journey to secure the support needed to complete the feature film and carry forward Cynthia’s legacy. It’s a beautiful story of love and redemption.
FINANCIAL OPPORTUNITY
Unlock a remarkable financial opportunity inspired by the moving narrative of “MOON OVER SORRENTO” for brand integration. This captivating story delves into the intricate dynamics of navigating a family member’s battle with a brain tumor. It sheds light on the critical pursuit of pioneering cures and invaluable insight into coexisting with cancer. Join us in championing this vital cause, whether for-profit or non-profit and pave the way for financial prosperity and research.
CHARACTERS
Monica (40-50 something) is a dynamic and funny lady, a mother and wife, with two girls, Sarah and Nikki. She’s on a quest to finish taking the family to Sorrento, Italy, with the wedding dress she wants to design for her niece, but Roger seems to be an obstacle. As a result, Monica has never been more frustrated.
Roger (40-50 something) is successful in finance, always flying somewhere or entertaining his clients. Unfortunately, he works too much and is less appreciative of Monica than he should be, affecting the marriage. He does redeem himself, but not until after hearing of the diagnosis.
Nikki (20s) is the oldest of the two girls in the family. She has a party streak in her, and it shows. There’s a conflict with her mom always. Nikki is devastated by her parent’s relationship. She’s a good girl who wants to be wrong. She is affected deeply by it all. She softens when her mother is diagnosed and does a 360.
Sarah (in her late teens) is the youngest of the two girls. She is together much more than Nikki. She is super dedicated to college, a great student, and not a partier like her sister. Sara is torn between falling in love with Marco and not due to the situation with her mother. Sarah comes on strong, helping her older sister deal with it all.
Marco (early 20s) is an Italian-American guy with eyes for Sarah. He stops at nothing to pursue her. He’s a good-looking young with a lot of ambition to help his family build a wine business.
Alexa (40-50 something) is one of Monica’s best friends, a real estate agent like Monica. She’s a gregarious, fun-loving, potent sort with many things happening simultaneously. Alexa is the one who saves Monica’s life. She’s always there for her.
Leo (early 20s) is Nikki’s boyfriend or friend. Nobody knows but Leo and Nikki, but Leo is gay without much of a home. He is Nikki’s best friend.
Nonna (80s) is a little senile and is all there. But, she still echoes for her deceased husband’s friend.
Dr. Roberts (30s) is a severe man with a raw sense of dry humor. He is Monica’s doctor, who needs to get her through the treatments and live the most extended life she can.
Christoff (40s) is Roger’s partner in the firm. He seems to have it out for Roger until he realizes the tough time Roger is having.
