Em is a young actress on the verge of a promising career, but her struggles with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder threaten her dreams. With a real chance at happiness before her, can Em overcome her fear of judgement and open herself to help?
Director Statement
Mental health development can be a deeply sensitive challenge throughout one's life. In this deeply personal semi-autobiographical film from writer/actress Tori Ernst, we explore the particular challenge women can face fearing that an acknowledgement of our needs will be perceived as weakness. This film is a frank yet whimsical look into the mind of one young woman learning to navigate career/romance when her mind seems determined to sabotage her chance at growth. Counting proudly features a female leadership team including writer, director, and more. Made safely during the Covid 19 Pandemic in New York City, this indie short film was made possible by drive, resilience, and teamwork. Nominated: Best Drama McMinnville Short Film Fest 2022 Won: Best Actress Tori Ernst, Oregon Short Film Festival 2022 Official Selection: Los Angeles Women's International Film Festival 2022 Official Selection: NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival 2022 Official Selection: Houston Asian American & Pacific Islander Film Festival 2022 Official Selection: Uplift Film Fest 2022 Official Selection: FLOW Festival and Film Market 2022 |
Directed by Sarah Young
Produced and Written by Tori Ernst Director of Photography: Andrew Whitlatch Tori Ernst Jinho Woo Kat Dunn Watson Cristina Spina Sound by Alex Chludzinska Editor and Gaffer Kevin Deming Art Direction Alexandra Peter |