the layover

CHRISTMAS is upon Lucas, although not in the way he initially anticipated experiencing it: cold, newly single, and with no desire to put up any decorations. He has always been one for tradition, but this season without his ex-boyfriend, Bao Zhang, means spending the holidays alone. That is, until Bao’s mother shows up.

A few knocks later, Mrs. Zhang is making food in Lucas’s kitchen. Bao shares that his father just passed and his mom was en route to spending Christmas with him, but a nearby storm forced a layover in Chicago. Mrs. Zhang thinks she’s just getting to know her son’s friend, but Lucas knows full well that Bao’s sexual identity – and by extension, his relationship – was always kept a secret.

Following Bao’s micromanaging requests, Lucas does his best to hide any “gayness” in himself and around his place, but ultimately, he is unable to stop Mrs. Zhang from finding a picture of his son’s forbidden romance.

With all the cards out on the table, Lucas and Mrs. Zhang speak openly about their respective experiences with Bao. As Mrs. Zhang performs her ritual honoring her husband, Lucas joins and lets his relationship with Bao finally be put to rest. After leaving one final voicemail for Bao, Lucas can now begin to move forward and celebrate Christmas in the way he now knows best: making new traditions.

Film Content Advisory: Grief

Credits
Writer: Fola Goke-Pariola
Producer: Trent Nakamura
Executive Producer: Yuchi Chiu
Director of Photography: Farrah Su
Editor: Justin Ricafort
Production Designer: Ming Fen Congdon
Composer: Maia Thomas
Sound Designer: Nate Flaks
Music: Maia Thomas

Plays in

LIFE IS SHORT

Love, death, disappointments and personal obstacles. Seven filmmakers distinctly put these human experiences through the wringer.