Play Me Like That

Skillfully and sensitively directed by Julianna Robinson, Play Me Like That is both affecting and, at times, quite funny, with a powerhouse lead performance by Nicole Gabriella Scipione and an impressive supporting cast, featuring Alina Phelan, Silas Weir Mitchell, Pamela Shaddock and Onahoua Rodriguez - all doing distinguished work as well. The chemistry between Scipione and Phelan as sisters is palpable, and Mitchell has a scene-stealing turn as an unapologetic jerk. In addition, Robinson and the production team deserve particular praise for the superbly curated soundtrack, which manages to support the emotional heft of the piece without ever being intrusive. This is an excellent, richly rewarding short film which deserves to find a wide audience.

From playful, sisterly antics to moments of grief and raw emotion, this film shows some of the most intimate, tender moments a relationship can have. Play Me Like That movingly portrays a bond between two sisters. I could feel the history behind Slipper and Crescent, as well as their friendship. I love the blend of more intense dialogue between the sisters woven in with light-hearted dancing and laughter.

The character, Slipper, played by Nicole Gabriella Scipione is especially captivating. Slipper possesses a child-likeness that contrasts with her sister's more practical personality. Slipper is whimsical, passionate, earnest. It's really her story I was brought into, I could feel her longing.

The film is so expertly written and so beautifully acted it immediately pulled me in. It was poetic, heartfelt, sad yet peaceful. I highly recommend Play Me Like That!!

A touching and beautifully made short that mixes heartfelt drama with moments of humor. Nicole Gabriella Scipione and Alina Phelan shine as sisters with a close and complicated connection, bringing real warmth and depth to their roles. The film's visuals and sound are rich and inviting, and the story lingers long after it ends. A wonderful showcase of Nicole's talent both on the page and on screen.

A tender and refreshingly honest portrait of sisterhood, this short film captures the quiet complexities of love, resentment, and reconciliation between two women. It thoughtfully explores the rarely depicted emotional terrain of two sisters at a crossroads, as they face a life-changing decision that will alter their relationship. The performances from the cast are superb and heartfelt. What comes about is a film that takes you on a journey of the heartbreaking and hopeful, as our protagonist comes to terms with the unexpected and her own personal journey and hopes for motherhood. A reminder that what we plan for and expect might not always be what we receive.

Play Me Like That is a tender, emotionally layered short that leaves a lasting impression. Nicole Gabriella Scipione delivers a near-acrobatic performance-balancing vulnerability, wit, and remarkable emotional range. The film explores identity, memory, and human connection through striking visual poetry and writing that feels both intelligent and alive. Every moment feels intentional and true, with small gestures carrying deep emotional weight. A quiet triumph that rewards close attention-this team clearly poured their hearts and souls into creating something unforgettable and profoundly moving.