Phallic Phase - Student Film

Hello Family, Friends, and all others reading! Mia Molina is a 1st generation college student studying film and electronic arts with a minor in women's gender and sexuality studies. She is a 4th year student and is set to graduate in Spring of 2024. At CSULB, Mia was profoundly influenced by the feminist perspective they gained through their Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies program. This academic background became the cornerstone of their filmmaking philosophy, inspiring them to create films that address gender and sexuality issues, challenging societal norms, and promoting inclusivity. In addition to their studies in film and Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, Mia recognized the importance of mastering the role of a producer in the world of filmmaking. They delved into courses and internships that provided them with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage and oversee the production of their films. She has gained valuable experience working on a variety of film projects during their time at CSULB, learning how to secure funding, assemble a talented crew, and handle the logistical intricacies of film production. They honed their organizational and leadership skills, becoming an essential figure in bringing their creative visions to life.

Phallic Phase is very special to Mia as it discusses real life situations that had affected her within working in corporate America as not only a woman, but a woman of color. Being seen in most instances as an assistant due to her womanhood and position, she had been walked over many times and hoped and prayed that something would change within the patriarchal society of America. After working under very strong and independent woman in these positions she learned that the change will not come from equality within men and woman, but with women resisting and becoming forces of nature that persists forward moving past the phallic phase of making men understand our struggles. Women of all kinds can relate this story as it shows how we need to cut ourselves away from this sort of control and find a new way of life that will help everyone finally be within the same playing field.

The film deals with Esmeralda's life as she works her way through a very male dominated workplace environment and because of this, ends up getting discriminated against in many instances. After one particularly bad day, she goes home to talk with her pet praying mantis who brings forth a sort of bodily transformation that changes her perspectives and how she is perceived causing her a whole new life to endure. The genres of this film mix drama with horror and psychological thriller to create a fresh and very thought-provoking film about capitalism, feminist ideologies, gender, sex, and the patriarchal world most endure today.

Sadly however, this project cannot come to life without help from everyone reading! Our film is in need of $2,500 in order to fund and complete our film. Our budget is listed below for your convenience. As you can see, we need all the help we can get to make this dream a reality and any donation will bring you a great reward!

Because we know that asking for money for these projects are honestly super annoying, we want to make sure we also give back to those who donate to our film! So, we have created a tier system that will make sure you get what you deserve as well!

Producers' statements:

• Born and raised in Mexico, Ana Mendoza has always had an affinity for film. She is deeply committed to promoting women in film and empowering their voices through storytelling. Through her work, Ana aspires to make a significant impact by sharing diverse narratives and creating a more inclusive film industry.
  

• As the daughter of Mexican immigrants, Bryssa Padua was determined to pursue higher education while nurturing her creative spirit. She found her perfect outlet in filmmaking. Bryssa firmly believes that stories from minority communities should be shared by those who've lived them. Her mission is to promote and empower women both behind and in front of the camera
  

• Martin Straume is an international student originally from Bergen, Norway who has always had a strong ambition for film and photography. His mission within the field is to produce creative and unique films that tell untold stories, particularly featuring queer expression and liberation.   
  

Production Designer Statement: 

• Lawrence Marquez is a Filipino-American filmmaker studying at California State University Long Beach. He is in his last year of film school, pursuing a double concentration in Production Management and Broadcast Production, accompanying a minor in Linguistics. Taking on a multitude of roles on student films, he has found a liking for cinematography, producing, and production design. As the current Outreach Coordinator for the CSULB Women in Film Association, he has sought out more opportunities for future filmmakers in hopes to create inclusive spaces and make changes to the industry that gives marginalized groups a voice.