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Tonally described as a cross between The Breakfast Club meets Juno, Choices is a short film that leaves a lasting impression. 

In the intricate dance of life, every choice we make ripples outward, shaping our futures in ways we can’t always predict. Kameishia Wooten’s Choices takes us to the heart of these moments, delving into the delicate, sometimes painful decisions that define who we are. This short film is more than just a narrative. It’s a mirror reflecting the human experience, asking us: What are the costs of our choices?

Hidden away under the bleachers at school, free-spirited Aisha gives a pregnancy test to Jessica, a cheerleader and prom queen contender, who’s terrified of what the results might mean. They are joined by their childhood friend Portia, who has made her own decisions about motherhood. The three reconnect over their circumstances and celebrate all of life’s choices.

Wooten’s storytelling weaves emotional depth with raw, relatable characters who face life-altering choices that challenge their values, relationships, and sense of self. The film’s sharp direction and nuanced script offer a fresh perspective on themes such as responsibility, regret, and the power of agency.

The film’s careful pacing ensures the tension builds, drawing viewers into the protagonist’s dilemma while keeping them on the edge of their seat. Choices doesn’t just focus on the act of decision-making but delves deeper into the internal struggles of its characters, making it a standout exploration of human vulnerability and resilience.

Director Kameishia Wooten says that on day two of filming Choices, “Clarence Thomas’ leaked abortion decision became public. With our cast and crew being mostly women, the set felt more like a battlefield. This film became an opportunity for us to protest with art.” 

What happens between Aisha, Jessica, and Portia is not driven by external conflict but by the internal battles faced by its characters. They are real, complex individuals whose decisions come with no guarantees, and their emotional stakes are palpable. It’s a testament to Wooten’s skill as a storyteller that viewers are left pondering not just the characters’ fates but also their own personal dilemmas long after the credits roll.

With sharp writing, masterful direction, and performances that leave a lasting impact, Wooten’s film creates a space for reflection on the complexities of morality, identity, and personal responsibility. Choices isn’t just a film — it’s a conversation starter, one that challenges us to think deeply about the paths we choose, the people we become, and the stories we leave behind.

The film stars Marajanai Kirby (Aisha), Nandi Nfr Ka (Jessica), Maxicianna Santilius (Portia), and Keith Arthur Bolden (Dad). The movie has a running time of 12:50 minutes. Choices is currently competing for Live-Action Short Film for the 97th Oscars.

The post Kameishia Wooten’s ‘Choices’: A Journey Through Tough Decisions appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

PeopleImages / Getty Images By Celeste Polanco ·Updated November 22, 2024

It’s almost that time again! Your whole family will be gathering for holiday dinner. You enthusiastically sit at your vanity, reaching for your favorite red lipstick and gracefully move it across your lips. This is, of course, before you add a glitter shadow that hasn’t been touched in ages. The finishing touch is timeless, reminding you that getting ready for the holidays is at once fun and nostalgic. 

In other words, it’s a time to embrace colors, glitters, and more to express our joy for the season. Makeup trends can also help us step outside our comfort zone and try different looks we otherwise might never think of. Kelly Bellevue and Halle Tims, known as Halle J, are two makeup artists who live for the latest makeup trends.

Below for their hot take on what to expect this season. 

Regarding lip colors, both women agree that this year is all about deeper reds. “Bordeaux is one of my favorite colors for the holiday season. It’s deeper and richer than the red we all associate with the holidays, but it feels very luxurious,” says Bellevue. To complement the deeper tone of red, she uses Mac Lip Liner in Vino because who doesn’t love a little red wine on their lips? 

Glitter is known for having a bit of extremism attached to it. When we hear glitter, most of us want to scream at the idea of glitter getting in our eyes or transferring to someone after greeting them. However, with a good setting spray, glitter can be a nice touch to this year’s trends without overdoing it. 

“I don’t think graphic glitter liner will be as prevalent as highlighting the inner corner of the eye with high-impact fine glitter/shimmer or washes of glitter over the center of the lid,” says Bellevue. She recommends achieving this, beginning with Laura Mercier Caviar Stick and topping it off with Patrick Ta’s Major Dimension Eye Illusion Eyeshadow Palette. 

For those who aren’t into the glitter vibes this season, you’re not alone. Tims is also not a fan of the trend and recommends beauty enthusiasts supplement this with fun eyeliner. She says, “Colored liner is great for a pop of color and something different.” Adding a bright or deep red eyeliner can create interest in the eye area. Deep green tones are also a big hit this season and can be a fun touch to any makeup look. 

Would a holiday be complete without blush? Our experts don’t seem to think so. Blush had a huge moment last year with the strawberry trend; luckily, that is still on par for this year, along with other blush trends. Continuing the theme of reds, Tims believes red blushes are on the rise. However, unlike lipsticks, red will differ for everyone’s skin tone. Plum blushes complement deeper tones, while brighter reds can do well with yellow undertones. We highly recommend spot-testing what tone of red will work for you before commenting on a color. 

There was a time when the heavy contour was mandatory with every look. Are we the only ones who purchased every contour palette in 2013? It’s time to crack open those contour palettes because the trend is back. Bellevue has confirmed that one of the trends that may surprise us most is heavy contour.

If you’re not a blush girlie, or even if you are, a heavy contour look can bring back an old tradition for holiday’s sake. However, If you want to have a side of blush with your contour, you may want to be mindful. Bellevue says, “Blush is still big, but I wouldn’t do it with harsh contour. Both are still trending.”

The post These Holiday Makeup Trends Will Fill You With Glee appeared first on Essence.

Werewolves don’t get nearly enough love. Sure, there are some werewolf supporting characters in larger horror stories, and there are even one or two quality werewolf-centric films, but vampires and zombies seem to get most of the attention. Director Leigh Whannell might just change that with his latest project.

You might know writer/director/actor Leigh Whannell as the writer of Saw, Cooties, and Insidious; or as the director of 2020’s awesome Invisible Man. Now, Whannell is bringing a classic Universal monster back to life with his upcoming film, Wolf Man.

Instagram By Celeste Polanco ·Updated November 22, 2024

The holidays are a time for us to become closer to our loved ones. They are also a time for women to be overburdened by the season. We are expected to cook, clean, decorate, get the children dressed, and attend Thanksgiving dinner as if we didn’t run on anxiety the whole day. 

Still, we sit at the table enjoying our prepared meal while catching the shade our family member threw us. Deeply exhausted, we suck it up for the sake of “getting along.” Meanwhile, we are drained beyond belief and counting down the hours for our guests to leave so we can release ourselves from the shackles of our makeup, bra, and wardrobe. 

Dear women, it is okay not to do it all this holiday season. Permit yourself to say no to the party or cook for a guest list of 20. Fight the urge to be the “strong woman” when someone says, “But you always make the turkey; you’re so good at it.” It’s okay to choose to be good to yourself instead. 

Self-care is a surface-level term that receives pushback for being mainly material. But it’s not just about the face masks. It’s about taking the time to exhale the stresses of being a woman and inhale everything that makes us feel aligned. It’s also our greatest survival tool when life becomes a bit overwhelming. 

One of the most remarkable healing tools we can give ourselves during this time is to lean on other women. The women in our village can serve as a guiding light. The women we follow on social media can comfort us sometimes, too—giving us tips and tricks that relieve us. 

In that spirit, we’ve chatted with a few influential women about how they care for themselves during the holidays. Their stories below. 

A post shared by Tina Meeks (@herlifesparkles)

Time is scarce for Tina Meeks. She spends it caring for her four children, creating content, hosting holiday parties, and organizing charity events. She describes this time as “mental gymnastics,” as she balances the joys of pregnancy and life’s obstacles. “Our family calendar is nuts during this time of year, so for me, it’s a busy time,” Meeks expresses. Her survival kit for this season has been having the strength to say no and not compromise her boundaries. 

Meeks centers herself by marking days “off” on her calendar. This allows her to do nothing at all or the freedom to do what brings her joy. It is a moment of pause that gives Meeks the strength to continue. “I’ve learned that if I’m not centered, neither is my family because my kids will feed off my energy. Therefore, I must protect my peace when I have too many things on my plate.” 

A post shared by Kay Davenport•DMV >

Anxiety is something Kay Davenport knows all too well during the holidays. Balancing a household, career, and hosting two families during the holidays can be overwhelming for anyone. “Just the thought of planning and prepping can easily make me anxious,” says Davenport. 

Despite this, preparation is also a way of bringing her a sense of ease. She believes staying two steps ahead can minimize stress. “Preparing helps me prioritize my calm during a season that can bring excitement and other emotions.”

Davenport sees preparation as a way of regaining her power. It is her secret weapon for controlling her emotions. She also advocates for taking time to breathe. “My husband and I tap out and find a quiet place to breathe and simply take a break while we are hosting.”

A post shared by Dr. Robin Barrett, Pharm D., NASM-CPT (@dr.robinb)

As an entrepreneur, Dr. Robin Barrett is always on the go. Between balancing work, family, and her fitness goals, time is limited. Still, she finds a moment to spend with her loved ones during the holidays. Family time target="_blank"> View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Oyin Edogi (@sweetlikeoyin)

This time of year, Oyin Edogi feels the pressure of perfectionism. She strives to provide the perfect holiday dinner, travel, and overall experiences. Naturally, living up to this standard can feel overwhelming and as if time is against her. Just when it all becomes too much, Edogi reminds herself of the simple aspect that brings her joy during the holidays—her family. She inhales this truth and exhales the unnecessary pressure she placed upon herself. 

In addition to family time, Edogi also finds it essential to make time for herself. “Whether it’s reading a book, taking a warm bath, or simply enjoying myself in silence, these moments allow me to recharge and find peace,” says Edogi. Implementing these practices has decreased her stress levels.

As a woman living with anxiety, she is aware of the importance of calming the voices that carry with her throughout the day. “Taking care of yourself first is the most important thing because you can’t pour into others if your cup is empty. Remember, it’s important to protect your peace and create boundaries to prevent burnout and enjoy the holidays to the fullest.”

The post These Beauty Influencers Share How They Keep Stress Down During The Holidays appeared first on Essence.