Anita Mann’s complicated views on sex, love and death leaves much to the imagination, and her therapist is about to find out how deep the rabbit hole goes.
LOGLINE
![blood-2-[Converted].png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4a56c9_62443bdc53f74e40aaab4ffa4797c4f3~mv2.png/v1/crop/x_0,y_102,w_1920,h_568/fill/w_40,h_12,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_avif,quality_auto/blood-2-%5BConverted%5D.png)
.png)
Anita Mann is a complicated young woman. In this short film, she explores her relationship with Sex, Love and Homicidal desires. Beginning with her first sexual experience as a young girl playing spin the bottle with the popular kids in the neighbourhood, her College experience, living away from home for the first time, and ending with her first taste of true love as a young adult. Her therapist tries to unpack her dark but humorous secrets, determined to find Anita’s real problem, but what he fails to realize, it's just in her nature!
SYNOPSIS
As a Black filmmaker, my journey into the world of film is deeply rooted in the desire to elevate underrepresented voices and to showcase the richness of our experiences. My debut film is a testament to this mission, a project born from a powerful collaboration and an unyielding vision.
The inception of this film began with a conversation with my dear friend, Juno-nominated artist BLk Orchid. When she shared her track "Maneater" with me, the raw energy and emotive depth of the song sparked a torrent of creative ideas. It became clear that this wasn't just an opportunity to create a music video but to embark on a more ambitious artistic endeavor. The concept that emerged from this collaboration is a short film that transcends traditional music videos, blending visual storytelling with the visceral intensity of the horror genre.
This film is not merely a creative outlet but a deliberate statement on representation. In a genre where Black voices and experiences are often marginalized, this project aims to assert the presence of Black narratives and perspectives in spaces where they are underrepresented. By centering a Black female lead, we challenge conventional norms and offer a fresh perspective that is both engaging and essential.
Moreover, this film embodies a larger vision of community and collaboration. In Toronto and beyond, there is a burgeoning movement of BIPOC creators coming together to uplift and support one another. By contributing to this collective effort, my goal is to foster a creative ecosystem where diverse voices are not only heard but celebrated. Our success is interlinked, and through our shared efforts, we can build a more inclusive and dynamic cultural landscape.
In creating this film, I am not only aiming for artistic and commercial success but also striving to set a precedent for future projects. I believe that this film can serve as a powerful example of how Black representation can enrich the horror genre and how creative collaborations can propel us towards greater recognition and impact.
This film is more than just a personal milestone; it is a step towards a broader cultural shift. It is an invitation for audiences and industry professionals alike to embrace new narratives and to recognize the potential of Black stories and voices. As a filmmaker, I am committed to this vision and excited for the journey ahead.
directors Statement
IMPOrtance
This film embodies a larger vision of community and collaboration. In Toronto and beyond, there is a burgeoning movement of BIPOC creators coming together to uplift and support one another. By contributing to this collective effort, my goal is to foster a creative ecosystem where diverse voices are not only heard but celebrated. Our success is interlinked, and through our shared efforts, we can build a more inclusive and dynamic cultural landscape.
In creating this film, I am not only aiming for artistic and commercial success but also striving to set a precedent for future projects. I believe that this film can serve as a powerful example of how Black representation can enrich the horror genre and how creative collaborations can propel us towards greater recognition and impact.
Writer & Director, Tess J.L Francis
Tess is a Toronto-based filmmaker-writer, born December 15, 1979. After graduating from the Toronto Film School, he began his video and film career, working as a freelance video editor, working on productions such as the NFB documentary “The Making of a Hip Hop Dancer” directed by Elizabeth st. philip. TJ became very active in social community activism, after travelling to Kolkata, India he started a non-profit organization called “Project Building Blocks,” which provided youth from disadvantaged communities in the west end of Toronto, with media arts and employment training. TJ established Iron Horse productions with a focus on providing entertaining stories that people from all walks of life can relate to.
CREATIVE TEAM
Executive PRODUCER. Monique Armstrong
Monique Armstrong is a Film and Media Producer and Business Affairs Consultant. She graduated from McMaster University with a Degree in Communications, Theatre, and Film and a certificate in Bilingual Studies. In 2020, she launched Media With Mo, specializing in mentoring small business owners and creatively directing entrepreneurial projects. Since starting her company, Monique has worked with numerous productions and networks, including SLICE, The Mom Show, and CTV's So You Think You Can Dance Canada. Her experience also includes providing strategic media support to the Deputy Minister’s Office for the Ministry of Research and Innovation and serving as a judge for the Toronto Caribbean Festival.
Monique has significantly contributed to the not-for-profit sector, working with Black Women Film Canada for two years. She was honored to manage a documentary feature, The National Emancipation Day Celebration for Canada, in partnership with Heritage Canada and The National Film Board. This project featured The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau.
Currently, Monique anticipates the release of her short film, The Cold Ride (2025), for which she served as the Executive Producer. Monique Armstrong remains a dynamic force in the film and media industry, dedicated to inspiring and empowering others through her work.
ConsultIng Producer, Cherene Francis
Cherene Francis is a Film and Media actor-producer and digital marketing consultant known for her expertise in monetizing online communities. As an alumnus of the OYA Media Black Arts Coalition (OBAC) program and a current member of Black Women Film Canada (BWFC), Cherene continues to create, direct, and produce narrative and branded content for businesses across Canada and the USA. As a producer, Cherene achieved a remarkable feat by independently producing two seasons (24 episodes) of "LEAP!" - a talk show featuring renowned entrepreneurs. The show aired on CHEX TV - Corus Entertainment, reaching audiences throughout Ontario. She has also produced a short feature film concept, STAINED (2023), and has directed a sci-fi thriller, The Cold Ride (2025). With a degree in Religious Studies, Cherene’s productions explore cultural, psychological, and spiritual perspectives, offering insights into mental health, ancient wisdom, and paranormal activity. Her work showcases thought-provoking narratives for screens of all sizes, blending entertainment with inspiration.
PRODUCER/1ST. AD, Lisa Kockeritz
Using the power of imagination to problem-solve and story-tell, Lisa produces and ADs indie films that captivate our senses and make us chuckle. As a writer/director, she enjoys exploring the messiness of aging and mining her own faults and flaws to create relatable characters that strive to thrive in interesting worlds. “Treat Day”, her first short film, screened in 5 festivals, received several nominations and won Best Actress (Chicago Shorts).
D.O.P., Gauarav Virkar
Gaurav is a Toronto-based cinematographer whose body of work covers narrative shorts, music videos, short documentaries, and commercials. After graduating as valedictorian from George Brown College, he further developed his skills and knowledge by working as a lighting and grip technician. His work as a cinematographer on the short film "Not So Afraid" earned the honour of best Micro Short at Cannes. Gaurav enjoys exploring innovative techniques and collaborating on projects that push creative boundaries. His passion for filmmaking is driven by its ability to entertain and educate an entire audience.
Soundtrack Supervisor, BLK Orchid
A 4x Juno Nominated producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist hailing from Hamilton by way of Toronto. With an impressive track record in the music industry, she has collaborated with renowned artists, including the Godfather of Canadian hip hop, Maestro Fresh Wes, Juno Nominee Chelsea Stewart, legendary producer Sly Dunbar, and Dancehall superstar Red Rat.
Blk Orchid's exceptional talent and versatility as a producer and songwriter have earned her recognition and nominations in the prestigious Juno Awards.
Web design, Karen Jewels
Karen is a creative visionary and founder of Upright Media Republic, a company that executes creative vision. Her professional journey led her into fashion design, graphic design, photography, videography, editing, music, theatre and film. She has a holistic understanding of the arts, entertainment, and fashion industries. She has performed on stage and in film/television in productions like The Lion King (theatre) and on Networks such as ABC/Walt Disney, She is a singer-songwriter with 3 recorded albums to date. She has a B.A. of Creative Arts from Yorkville University, a diploma in Fashion Design from George Brown College, and 3 years of music studies at Humber College. She also has certificates in Brand Management from the U of T, Fashion Business Development & Management (GBC) and Therapeutic Arts Practitioner from Ciiat. Karen is an alumnus of the OYA Black Arts Coalition Immersive Media Program. Deeply passionate about her work Karen is a valuable Creative /Brand Consultant.
JOIN OUR MAILING LIST
Get monthly updates and get exclusive opportunities to win merch and other amazing prizes from our brand partners.
