Los Angeles, CA – Production is set to begin in 2027 on The Chicken Festival, a heartwarming and comedic drama directed by award-winning filmmaker Randi Barros. Produced by Jennie Lew Tugend, the film will star Kayden Brenna Tokarski (My Melancholy Baby) and Alison MacInnis (Power Rangers Lightspeed Rescue). Set in 1979 Delaware, the film delivers a touching and humorous narrative about family, resilience, and the trials of growing up. Filming will take place in Los Angeles, CA and Delaware, combining urban and small-town settings to create a nostalgic yet visually dynamic backdrop.
Accolades and Recognition
The Chicken Festival has already gained critical attention, with its screenplay earning accolades at several prestigious festivals and competitions. It was a Nicholl Fellowship semifinalist and has been recognized at CineStory, The Writers Lab, and The Austin Film Festival, where it garnered praise for its poignant portrayal of family dynamics and small-town life. The screenplay has also been listed on The Grey List, recognizing it as one of the most promising unproduced screenplays of the year. These early recognitions highlight the film's potential to captivate both critics and audiences worldwide.
Synopsis
The Chicken Festival is set during a hot Delaware summer in 1979 and centers around Franny Levin (played by Kayden Brenna Tokarski), a teenager struggling to balance her summer job at the town's annual chicken festival while supporting her mother, Leila Levin (played by Alison MacInnis), who is battling cancer. In a twist of fate, a simple summer kiss complicates her friendships and leads her to unexpected revelations about family and hope. Through a mix of humor, drama, and reflection, The Chicken Festival tells the universal story of growing up and discovering strength in adversity.
Director’s Statement
“The Chicken Festival is a deeply personal project for me,” says Randi Barros, the film's director. “Having grown up in a small town like Delaware, I’ve always been fascinated by the quiet but profound stories that take place in communities like this—stories of resilience, love, and finding hope when things seem bleak. The film blends comedy and drama, but at its core, it’s about the strength of family and the beauty of everyday moments. My goal is to capture the essence of that small-town spirit while highlighting the universal challenges we all face, whether it's dealing with grief, finding oneself, or simply growing up.”
Barros also spoke about the importance of the film's period setting: “The late '70s had such a distinctive feel—a time before technology took over our lives, where human connection was still the most important part of a community. The festival itself becomes a symbol of hope and tradition amidst the challenges faced by Franny and her family."
About the Cast and Crew
Kayden Brenna Tokarski (My Melancholy Baby) takes on the role of Franny Levin, bringing emotional depth and youthful energy to the screen. Her performances have made waves, earning her critical acclaim for her ability to navigate complex characters.
Alison MacInnis, beloved by audiences for her iconic role as the Pink Ranger in Power Rangers Lightspeed Rescue, portrays Leila Levin, Franny’s ailing mother. MacInnis brings a wealth of experience and gravitas to the role, and her nuanced performance is sure to resonate with viewers.
Randi Barros, the film’s writer and director, brings her unique storytelling perspective to The Chicken Festival. Known for her focus on misfits and underdogs, Barros' screenplays have been honored at numerous prestigious festivals, including CineStory, Athena, and The Writers Lab. She is also an award-winning film editor, with her latest documentary Heaven Stood Still receiving rave reviews.
Jennie Lew Tugend, the powerhouse producer behind The Chicken Festival, is no stranger to success. With a portfolio that includes iconic franchises like Free Willy and Lethal Weapon, Tugend’s expertise and experience will be pivotal in bringing the story to life.
Curtis Yap, the film’s cinematographer, is renowned for his distinct visual style and masterful storytelling through camera work. He will work closely with Anish Saini, the gaffer, whose lighting techniques have elevated numerous productions.
Lucia Lopez joins the team as the production designer, crafting the visually stunning backdrop of 1979 Delaware. Vraj Kanniyawala will lend his sharp editing skills to the project, ensuring that the film’s pacing and tone hit just the right notes.
Cast and Crew Excitement
The cast and crew are eager to bring the story of The Chicken Festival to life. Kayden Brenna Tokarski expressed her enthusiasm: “Franny’s journey is one that many can relate to. It’s a story about discovering your own strength, even in the most unexpected circumstances. I’m thrilled to step into this role and be part of such a meaningful project.”
Alison MacInnis shared, “Leila Levin is a character who faces her illness with grace and determination. She’s a strong mother trying to hold everything together for her family, and I think her story will touch a lot of people.”
Producer Jennie Lew Tugend, whose experience includes working on major franchises like Free Willy and Lethal Weapon, added: “The script captivated me from the start. Randi’s voice as a storyteller is unique, and her ability to bring out both the humor and the emotional depth in a story is truly impressive. We have an amazing team working on this film, and I’m confident it will resonate with audiences.”
Production and Festival Run
Following the film’s completion, The Chicken Festival is set for an August 2028 release, with plans for a global festival circuit run. The script has already gained recognition at major festivals such as The Austin Film Festival and The Grey List, further raising anticipation for its cinematic debut.
The film will be showcased at prestigious international festivals, drawing attention for its heartfelt exploration of family dynamics, and will be followed by an Theatrical Release.
About Mariposa Movies
Mariposa Movies is an independent production company known for its commitment to powerful, emotionally charged stories. With a focus on visually striking and thought-provoking films, the company continues to push boundaries with innovative narratives and talented filmmakers.