A new short film is capturing the intense collision between new love and the tense political climate in the United States. América is a 22-minute romantic drama starring Cheyenne Jackson and model-actor Luca Castellani. It’s a story that feels incredibly timely as it explores the fear surrounding immigration and government crackdowns.
The film comes from Brazilian filmmaker Aly Muritiba, who previously directed the excellent queer feature Private Desert. The story begins with a familiar setup. Tom (Castellani), a Brazilian immigrant waiting tables, has a chance encounter with Josh (Jackson), a journalist. They start dating and begin building a life together, sharing friends and intimate moments.
Their new relationship is suddenly threatened when an officer walks into Tom’s restaurant. The film explores the frightening reality of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and how they can shatter lives in an instant.
The story was inspired by conversations with Castellani. His own experience pursuing the American dream was challenged by the government’s crackdown on immigration. He told The Hollywood Reporter, “I started modeling [at 17] and have been saving my whole life to become an actor.”
He used those savings to produce the film. “This character gave me a gift, to allow me to look back at how far I’ve come and give myself credit.”
Cheyenne Jackson And Luca Castellani in America. (Aspen Studios)
Trying to create a story about tolerance.
Muritiba wanted to humanise the immigrant experience for audiences. “I was trying to create a story about tolerance, about love, and how important it is to look at each other,” he shared with The Hollywood Reporter. The director hoped Tom’s story would give a voice to others.
“I wrote scenes that would show the audience, this guy is just like you, he has fears and dreams and feelings.”
The film, which was shot last spring, is already gaining attention after screenings in Los Angeles. There is even discussion about the Academy Awards, as it will be eligible in the Best Short Film (Live Action) category.
While the film’s ending remains a secret, Castellani’s personal story had a happy update. He became an American citizen in June. He marked the moment on Instagram, promising to use his new rights. “I will vote. I will speak up. And I will fight for the rights of immigrants, because our voices and our stories matter.”
