"Motad" (Like The Black Hole Of Calcutta)

Hello!

I’m Rana Ghiassi. For those who know me, you probably already know how I deal with things—if it’s emotionally traumatizing, I turn it into a movie.

That’s exactly what this project is about. After coming out of a really toxic relationship, I poured my experience into a film that shines a light on the destructive love cycles people can get trapped in.

The goal was to be honest, raw, and shed light on the discomfort and cringe that comes with those moments, in the hopes it resonates with others.

Why am I asking for your support?

This film was shot in my bedroom with just a small, dedicated team. My friend Paul Duran-Lemos shot and edited it—he poured his heart into this without earning a single cent. Alongside him, we had Lorenzo Zapata, the other actor, and a couple of more (sound and swing) who helped on set. We had no budget, just shared meals and credit. Every person involved gave everything they had—blood, sweat, and tears—to bring this story to life. Without the expectation of anything in return--that’s the soul of independent filmmaking—it’s not driven by big budgets or flashy sets; it’s people who deeply care. It’s about passion, sacrifice, and pouring your heart into something, knowing that even without guarantees, what you’re making has meaning. Every person involved showed up because they believed in the story, in the magic of creation, and in each other.

Now, I’m asking for your support to get it out into the world. I need funds to submit the film to festivals. Toxic relationships exist everywhere, and this film shines a light on how damaging they can be. My hope is that it offers perspective to those trapped in such cycles and comfort to those who’ve been through them.

Every dollar helps, and your contribution would mean the world—not just to me, but to the message we’re trying to share. Thank you for being part of this journey.

With love and gratitude,

Rana