I'm Fine

I'm Fine (Thanks for Asking) is a captivating indie film finely crafted and co-directed by dynamic new voices in the cinema world, Kelley Kali and Angelique Molina. Released in 2021, this emotional roller coaster co-stars Kali with Wesley Moss, and also includes Dominique Molina. Giving life to the characters, the lead actors offer a magnetic portrayal of the dramatic storyline, delivering a poignant and powerful message about homelessness and the daily struggle of survival.

Set against the backdrop of an illuminating sunny day in California, the narrative distances itself from traditional approach to storytelling, providing a raw and realistic perspective of life that is certain to leave a lasting impression on its viewers. It embodies the grit and determination of a single mother's quest to provide her daughter with a stable environment amidst personal and financial turmoil.

Kelly Kali, an award-winning actress, plays the role of Danny, a recently widowed mother who is temporarily homeless and desperate to gather enough money to rent an apartment. Living out of their whimsical pink tent while pretending they are just on a fun camping adventure, she aims to shield her young daughter Wes, brilliantly performed by Wesley Moss, from the harsh realities of their situation. Behind her upbeat personality and ingrained optimism, Danny is forced to navigate a harsh reality in the pursuit of re-establishing a normal life for Wes and herself.

Among the myriad of her life challenges, I'm Fine (Thanks for Asking) doesn't shy away from exposing the social implications that gender and race play in our society. Without becoming overly preachy, the filmmakers effectively address the issue of racial bias while providing a profound look into a day in the life of a struggling single Afro-American mother trying to make ends meet. Additionally, the film explores economic disparities, the paucity of available resources for single mothers, and the lack of a support system.

Dominique Molina, in the role of a roller-skating friend, delivers a memorable performance that further enhances the tapestry of the narrative. Her interactions with Danny offer a deeper insight into the beleaguered reality of a community that the outside world often fails to consider.

With the screenplay also written by Kali alongside Roma Kong, the narrative gains depth and captures the viewer's interest, allowing empathy for the lead characters' plight. Coupled with a distinct flair of cinematography by Tobin Oldach, the viewer is ushered through a cinematically rewarding journey of the streets of Los Angeles, frequently seen from a different perspective.

The film stands out not only as a social commentary but also as a testament to the strength and resilience of a mother's love. Besides the strong narrative, Kelley Kali and Angelique Molina bring forth a competent directorial venture that is spellbindingly paced and creatively layered.

The casting also deserves recognition, as all characters, including supporting roles, vividly impersonate their streetside personas truly, culminating in a story that feels remarkably authentic. This crisp execution of the cast-ensemble amplifies the film's overall impact, making it an ambitious dive into the realms of independent filmmaking.

Enhancing the movie's effect is the music, an unassuming but powerful tool to catalyze the performance. Composed by Daeizm, it hits all the right notes, infusing a vibrant energy that pulsates in parallel with the throbbing heartbeat of the narrative. The music aligns perfectly with the roller-skating theme, adding deeper, upbeat dimensions to a storyline that mostly concerns a harsh reality.

One doesn’t have to look far into "I'm Fine (Thanks for Asking)" to truly appreciate the love, hard work, dedication, and attention to detail poured into making this film. Kelley Kali and Angelique Molina put forth a great example of the confluence of sharp writing, crisp acting, and brilliant cinematography.

I'm Fine (Thanks for Asking) is not just a movie; it is an impactful and stirring experience that invites us all into a day's journey in the life of a struggling single parent. This indie drama demands attention and, in return, offers an exceptional, empathetic, and deeply moving view of humanity.