Strangely Optimistic
based on a true, heartbreakingly ridiculous, Long COVID story.
Coming Soon!
Countdown Timer2X Grammy & Emmy-Nominee Nina Storey and MaskTogetherAmerica Launch Long COVID Dramady, "Strangely Optimistic."
Synopsis:
Strangely Optimistic follows aspiring singer-songwriter, Nina Storey, who is blindsided by debilitating mystery symptoms following a Covid infection early in the Pandemic. Although perpetually gaslit by everyone around her, armed with dark humor, music, her loyal pup, and an alarming amount of pickle juice, she finds a way to keep getting back up.
Based on Storey’s harrowing journey with Long COVID since 2020, "Strangely Optimistic" uses the lens of dark comedy to explore the isolation and "under the radar" struggles of those living with the long-term effects of the virus. After years of social withdrawal and a forced hiatus from most performing, Storey is using this platform to redefine Long COVID as a critical health equity and disability issue.
"Long COVID has been an invisible battle for millions, often leaving many feeling isolated and hopeless," says Nina Storey. "Through this film, we want to shine a light on that darkness with humor and hope, showing that even in our most dire struggles, there is a path toward visibility, change, and healing. I also believe that many people facing chronic illness develop a sharp wit and enduring sense of humor to deal with the dynamic elements of their illness.”
Director’s Statement:
According to the National Academies, Long COVID, present for at least 3 months, can manifest in more than 200 symptoms and medical conditions, including exacerbation of pre-existing conditions, and conditions affecting multiple organ systems.
New short film for the 13th Annual Easterseals Disability Film Challenge turns a personal health crisis into a powerful call for health equity.
We made this film to raise awareness of the invisible battle nearly 400 million people are currently facing, livingwith Long COVID. It leaves many feeling like ghosts in their own lives. Emerging in 2020, COVID-19 persists as a global health crisis that targets vital organs—from the brain to the heart to the gut—disrupting every system in the body.
Long COVID is a disability that deserves attention, research, and equity. Our call to action through this film is to shine a light on that darkness with humor and hope, showing that even in our most dire struggles, there is a path toward visibility, change, and healing.
Every 'Like' and 'Comment' on the official YouTube link helps us win the Awareness Award and brings more visibility to the Long COVID community!