A naïve immigrant seeks a better life in America, but first, he'll have to survive New York City.

Top 15%, The Academy Nicholl Fellowship 2017

SYNOPSIS:

Jose, a newly arrived undocumented immigrant, lands in the high-energy, complex world of New York City, carrying his dream of becoming a mariachi singer. His initial excitement is marred by a traumatic event he witnessed during his risky journey to the United States. Once in New York, Jose looks for his old friend Mario, with whom he has shared a special bond since their childhood in Mexico. When Jose discovers that Mario is now Maria, he greets Maria's transition with respect and acceptance, renewing their strong friendship amidst the backdrop of a city often marked by harsh realities.

One night, on his way home from work, Jose becomes disoriented and gets lost in the city. A mugging ensues but is interrupted by Jane, who is on her way home. Jose is left battered and bloody, but Jane goes against her better judgment and takes in this foreign-speaking stranger to clean his wounds. Communication between Jose and Jane occurs through intuition. They spend a special night together, platonic but romantically charged, sharing their hopes, dreams, and nightmares without sharing a spoken language. Jane and Jose part ways in the morning, with Jane heading to work and Jose returning to his home with Maria.

Consumed by thoughts of Jane and with Maria's help, Jose endeavors to find her in the labyrinthine city. Meanwhile, Jane finds herself similarly drawn to Jose but has no way to locate him. In Maria's effort to help Jose integrate better, she unknowingly directs him closer to Jane by enrolling him in an English class that takes place during the weekend at the same school where Jane teaches on the weekdays.

Maria and Jose shared journey takes a severe turn when Maria survives a violent hate crime. The experience fortifies their determination to thrive in their adopted city. Amidst these challenges, the question persists: will Jose and Jane ever cross paths again?

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SING DON'T CRY