Support Josiah's Asian American Romance Film

When her estranged friends reunite at an Airbnb, Ilah is surprised to see her ex-lover invited.

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Hello, my name is Josiah and I am a fourth-year film student at San Diego State University. I am excited to announce the newest film I am producing, “Under Seventh Heaven” an Asian American romance drama with LGBTQIA+ themes. As seniors, my team and I are gratified to be making this character-focused movie, and in the context of our political landscape, a vitally relevant narrative that is unapologetic in its depiction of humanity’s rawest feelings and emotions.

For fans of the critically acclaimed Portrait of a Lady Under Fire and/or anyone who appreciates healthy portrayals of underrepresented identities in Asian cinema “Under Seventh Heaven” is a film you should watch out for–we expect to complete shooting in late spring and finish post-production in May.

How YOU could help… financial assistance will go to the following:

Production Design: Fees that come with renting props or the expenses that come with buying them.

Professionalism: It’s the norm, even if our film isn’t union-based, that we feed our crew and actors a hot meal if shoots go past six hours. It’s also important for us to provide snacks and refreshments to keep morale high and everyone well-nourished.

Location: The Airbnb we are renting is the only location we are shooting at. It is the biggest expense in our budget but has everything the director wants–promotes the notion that these are recent college graduates ready to enjoy one last getaway before succumbing to corporate life.

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Synopsis: At a weekend music festival getaway in a sleek Airbnb, Ilah reunites with old friends from her past, including Monica—the girl who once left her behind. As tensions rise and unspoken feelings resurface, the two are drawn into a dance of confrontation, regret, and unresolved emotions. What begins as a lively reunion spirals into a night of intimate confessions and raw vulnerability, forcing them to face the truth they’ve both been avoiding. Between the pulse of the music and the weight of their past, Ilah and Monica must decide if they can forgive, let go, or finally embrace what’s been simmering between them for years.

Director's statement

This film draws deeply from the experiences of my older sister, whose journey of self-discovery as a lesbian navigating cultural expectations deeply shaped my understanding of identity and belonging. Witnessing her struggles and triumphs firsthand has given me a profound appreciation for the complexities of reconciling tradition with personal truth. Stories like hers, especially from an Asian American and LGBTQ+ perspective, remain underrepresented, and I feel a deep responsibility to bring this narrative to the screen with authenticity and care.

I want this film to provide a space for those who have struggled with self-acceptance and reconciling their past, offering a story that feels honest, raw, and deeply human. At its core, this film is about the messy but beautiful process of healing—rediscovering lost connections, finding closure in unresolved pain, and learning that authenticity is the truest form of freedom. Through intimate storytelling and a conscious rejection of stereotypes and the male gaze, I hope the

audience walks away feeling seen, understood, and empowered to embrace their own version of happiness—their own Seventh Heaven.

Bringing this story to life requires community support. Every contribution—whether through funding, advocacy, or sharing our vision—plays a crucial role in ensuring this film reaches those who need it most. Independent films like this thrive on the passion and generosity of those who believe in diverse storytelling. Your support will not only help with production and distribution but also amplify underrepresented voices and create space for stories that deserve to be told.

Thank you for believing in this project and helping us bring this vision to life. Your support means everything.