Mango Lemon Soda is a 20-minute short film about liberating oneself from toxic environments and relationships. The film, which is set in the heat of a summer’s day, follows the life of a Black femme who has set up a date with her estranged ex, Tyler; hopeful that he has changed after a year of separation. Throughout their day together, Zahrah is reminded of all the harmful reasons why she left Tyler in the first place, and must then make a choice; whether she will blindly continue her relations with Tyler or prioritize herself and abandon toxic familiarity.

Mango Lemon Soda explores realities that many BIPOC can relate to. Realities of systemic, social, and economic disadvantages that seep into various aspects of our lives, including romantic and platonic relationships. Mango Lemon Soda is thoroughly a liberation story as well as a celebration of life, Blackness, and self-love even in the face of prejudice, disadvantage, and toxicity. I want all audiences to leave the viewing with a newfound sense of understanding for an aspect of the Black femme experience.