An uncommon view in these difficult times,18 year-old, Caribbean-American filmmaker Khai J Umstead delivers a manifesto of gratitude, YVONNE is inspired by and named after Umstead’s grandmother, Yvonne, who is blind in one eye “yet still finds gratitude and joy in life,” Umstead writes. “No matter what, she still continues to find joy in the little things and continues to persevere.” In fewer than a couple of rhythmic, rhyming minutes, Umstead wields her camera and voices her call to us all to look around, pay attention, and give thanks for art, plants, creatures, walking, chores, breathing, and laughing. Yes, YVONNE is a message piece. And it’s bold yet humble, declarative yet kind, grand yet personal, honoring an elder whose wisdom and grace is offered to us with deep respect and love. A world premiere in Good Symptom.

YVONNE (2024) is currently not available on any services.