Imagine a world where social media reigns supreme, and our lives are a never-ending cycle of comparison and competition. But here's where it gets real: what happens when our personal relationships become just another casualty of the digital age? This is the question at the heart of 'Basic', a new indie comedy from writer-director Chelsea Devantez, starring Ashley Park, Leighton Meester, and Taylor John Smith. Based on Devantez's award-winning 2020 short film of the same name, 'Basic' follows the story of Gloria (Park) and Nick (Smith), a couple who go through a painful breakup, only to have Gloria spiral out of control as she delves into Nick's past dating history. As she untangles the web of his ex-girlfriends, she discovers the reason behind all their issues: Kaylinn (Meester), the ultimate 'mean girl' who not only stole Gloria's boyfriend but is also threatening to take over her entire story. Presented by a powerhouse team of producers, including Marc Platt Productions, BuzzFeed Studios, Fortitude International, Caliwood Pictures, and 100 Zeros, 'Basic' boasts an impressive cast, including Ashley Nicole Black, Kandy Muse, Nelson Franklin, Kenzie Elizabeth, and Kate Linder. But what really sets this film apart is its sharp commentary on the human condition, and how we engage with each other in the age of social media. As producer Marc Platt notes, 'Chelsea is a singular creative force – sharply funny, fearless, and full of heart. Her vision brilliantly captures how we engage with, judge ourselves and others, and are consumed by social media.' With a stellar cast and a fearless director at the helm, 'Basic' is shaping up to be a timely and hilarious exploration of what it means to be human in the digital age. And this is the part most people miss: the film's clever script, penned by Devantez, is not just a comedy – it's also a scathing critique of our social media-obsessed culture. But here's the question: are we ready to confront the darker side of our online personas? Devantez, an Emmy-nominated writer, bestselling author, comedian, and director, is no stranger to tackling tough topics. With a resume that includes stints as Head Writer for 'The Problem with Jon Stewart' on Apple TV+ and development deals with 20th Century Fox, she's proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry. Her debut memoir, 'I Shouldn't Be Telling You This (but I'm Going To Anyway)', became a national bestseller, and her podcast, 'Glamorous Trash', has racked up over six million downloads to date. So, what can we expect from 'Basic'? For starters, a healthy dose of humor, courtesy of Devantez's sharp wit and the talented cast. But also, a nuanced exploration of the human condition, one that challenges us to think critically about our online lives and the impact they have on our real-world relationships. As we navigate the complexities of social media, it's clear that 'Basic' is a film that will spark some serious conversations. And this is where it gets controversial: are we willing to confront the ways in which social media is shaping our identities, our relationships, and our sense of self-worth? The answer, much like the film itself, is anything but basic. So, we want to hear from you: what do you think about the impact of social media on our personal relationships? Do you think 'Basic' is onto something with its scathing critique of our online culture? Let us know in the comments below.
