One of the standout films I had the opportunity to cover at this year’s Miami Film Festival was HoneyJoon, where I sat down with writer and director Lilian T. Mehrel to discuss the film and its growing success. HoneyJoon premiered at the Tribeca Festival and won the prestigious Tribeca AT&T Untold Stories Award, receiving $1 million in funding. Since its premiere, the film has earned multiple audience and best feature awards, gained international attention for its star-studded cast, and was recognized by Vogue as one of the standout films to watch. Described as “a surprisingly sexy, darkly funny, emotional rollercoaster,” the film follows June and her Persian-British mother, Lela, as they travel to the romantic Azores Islands for a grief anniversary while navigating their contrasting ways of coping with loss. Along the way, a philosophical surfer guides them through an unforgettable journey filled with emotion, healing, humor, and flirtation. HoneyJoon is a story for anyone living with loss, anyone searching for freedom within themselves, and anyone who has ever tried and failed to flirt. While HoneyJoon is currently continuing its festival run, audiences can stay tuned for future streaming and release announcements through the film’s official platforms. Find more about Honeyjoon on social media at @honeyjoonfilm. Stay tuned for more incredible films and festival moments by following @miamifilm and visiting www.miamifilmfestival.com @pinzurpr (Pinzur Communications)