FREEDOM HAS A COST

WRITTEN BY JULIO GABAY

DIRECTED BY AVI YOUABIAN

INSPIRED BY TRUE EVENTS

Thin Geometric Lines

"Wake" tells the story of Sammy, a Cuban ​immigrant ​haunted by the consequences of his ​decision to lead his family to freedom on a risky ​journey ​from Cuba to Miami.


In his quest for redemption, Sammy secretly helps ​other ​Cuban refugees despite threats from Gerrard, ​a ​self-righteous Coastguard officer. Sammy ​eventually has to ​confront his painful past and ​make a heart-wrenching ​decision that may alter his ​fate.


"Wake" delves into themes of remorse, salvation, ​and ​the profound human toll experienced when ​refugees ​seek sanctuary in a new country.


Round Geometric Lines
Instagram Blue Logo Vector
Black Gradient Background
Round Geometric Lines
Round Geometric Lines
Thin Geometric Lines

CAST

CAST

Round Geometric Lines

Julio Gabay


"Sammy"

Camila Rodriguez


"Miriam"

Emma Sofia Henriquez


"Eva"

Round Geometric Lines

Jadon Cal


"Officer Gerrard"

Roberto Sanchez


"Captain Herrera"

Thin Geometric Lines

Jennifer Fernandez


"Maria"

Abigail Grace Fundora


"Leyla"

Round Geometric Lines
Thin Geometric Lines
Round Geometric Lines
Round Geometric Lines
Thin Geometric Lines
Round Geometric Lines
Round Geometric Lines
Round Geometric Lines
Round Geometric Lines
Round Geometric Lines
Thin Geometric Lines
Thin Geometric Lines

Director's Statement

Simple Black Square Shape

My parents escaped from Iran to America, harboring dreams of a better ​future not just for themselves but also for my younger brother and me. Their ​sacrifices, love, and unyielding spirit pulse through every page of "WAKE".


"WAKE" didn't just resonate with me as a filmmaker, but profoundly as a ​father, whose paramount wish is for his children's well-being. Now, as a ​father of three, the mere thought of losing a child is my deepest dread.


Though this story holds deep personal ties, its themes are universally ​echoing: sacrifice, love, and the indomitable human spirit that pushes ​forward even when faced with monumental adversities.

With "WAKE", we aim to magnify the voices and silent calls that motivate ​every refugee. This narrative transcends the mere desire for a better life; it ​embodies the pursuit of existence itself, a relentless hunt for hope, and the ​promise of a more radiant tomorrow.


I hold a steadfast belief that "WAKE" will extend beyond evoking emotions. ​It's sculpted to ignite dialogue and hopefully recalibrate views, offering ​viewers an intimate dive into the refugee journey toward finding a "home".


Thin Geometric Lines
Round Geometric Lines
Thin Geometric Lines

A little History

Thin Geometric Lines

WHY DID WE MAKE THIS SHORT?

Web button with arrow pointer clicking icon. Vector web button. Web button with action of arrow pointer. UI button concept.

EXPLORE

Web button with arrow pointer clicking icon. Vector web button. Web button with action of arrow pointer. UI button concept.

EXPLORE

Round Geometric Lines
Thin Geometric Lines
Web button with arrow pointer clicking icon. Vector web button. Web button with action of arrow pointer. UI button concept.

EXPLORE

Sponsors

&

Donors

A special thanks to all ​vendors and sponsors who ​contributed to the production ​of this short film.

BEHIND THE SCENES