Login Line: Destiny and her prankster friend break out of their rehab center to watch their favorite stoner comedy, Starbud. After overdosing during the screening, they wake up trapped in an endless loop within the film. As Destiny battles to escape, she realizes she is becoming the embodiment of time itself.
In a Nutshell: In "Starbud 2," Destiny, a Black woman in a mental hospital, embarks on a surreal journey with her best friend, filled with weed, movies, and time travel. As they traverse through history and media, Destiny discovers her true identity, battling against her friend's villainous alter ego in a cosmic struggle between good and evil.
Genre: Coming of Age, Sci-Fi, Afrofuturism
Tagline: "Through the Smoke and Haze, Destiny Awakens."
Format: A Short Film - 1st 15 mins of the show
Synopsis: Destiny and her prankster friend, Lily, are residents of a rigid rehab center, navigating their existence under the watchful eyes of the staff. But today is April 20th, and they have a bold plan to escape the confines of their reality and indulge in their shared obsession: the stoner comedy, "Starbud."
We kick off with Destiny zoning out in a monotonous group therapy session, her mind drifting far away. Suddenly, Lily crashes in, bringing an explosive burst of energy, much like Harley Quinn in a jailbreak scene. She ignites a chaotic, musical moment with patients joining in a wild rendition of "Chandelier" by Sia, creating a surreal, anarchic atmosphere. Amidst the pandemonium, Lily pulls Destiny aside, reminding her of their mission: to catch the screening of "Starbud."
Their escape is a whirlwind of near-misses and comedic mishaps, as they outsmart guards and make a dramatic dash onto a city bus. Their escape route takes them through the Hemp Fest parade, a vibrant, kaleidoscopic event that provides perfect cover. Amidst a sea of quirky festival-goers, they finally reach their destination—the Egyptian Theater.
As they settle into their seats, the anticipation is palpable. They light up a special blunt, and as the first 4 minutes and 20 seconds of "Starbud: The Battle of Zion" play, Destiny starts feeling disoriented. The screen blurs, and Lily's voice fades, asking, "Are you with me?" Destiny’s vision tunnels and she passes out.
She awakens back in the rehab center’s therapy session. The realization hits hard: she’s caught in a loop. Each subsequent escape attempt grows more surreal and fragmented, with reality and the film’s universe intertwining in bizarre, unpredictable ways. Destiny’s reflections in mirrors start to move independently, clocks spiral into infinity, and cryptic messages appear in unexpected places.
Through each iteration, Destiny encounters peculiar characters who drop enigmatic hints about identity and existence. These moments become increasingly meta, bending the boundaries of the narrative. The rehab center morphs into strange versions of itself, echoing scenes from "Starbud" in dreamlike, hallucinatory sequences.
As Destiny’s awareness sharpens, she starts piecing together the puzzle. The line between friend and foe blurs, with Lily’s behavior growing more suspicious. Destiny notices that the supporting characters—guards, therapists, fellow patients—begin to mirror aspects of herself, each representing fragments of her psyche.
In a climactic, mind-bending showdown, Destiny confronts Lily, realizing the shocking truth about their existence. Every encounter, every loop, was a piece of a grander design leading her to this moment of awakening. She comprehends that she is the incarnation of time itself, with the power to break free from the perpetual cycle.
The film crescendos with Destiny’s final awakening. She stares directly into the camera, breaking the fourth wall and holding the audience’s gaze for a full minute. Her expression is a mix of revelation and serenity, a visual metaphor for her ultimate enlightenment. The screen fades to black, leaving viewers to ponder the profound journey they've just witnessed.
Age: 25
Background: Destiny is a young African-American woman who has struggled with substance abuse, leading to her stay in a rehab center. Intelligent and introspective, she often finds herself lost in daydreams and escapist fantasies.
Personality: Thoughtful and curious, Destiny has a natural inclination towards deep thinking and introspection. Despite her current circumstances, she harbors a strong desire to understand herself and the world around her.
Appearance: Destiny has a natural hairstyle, often wearing comfortable and casual clothing that reflects her laid-back and thoughtful nature.
Role in Story: Destiny is the protagonist who embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Throughout the time loops, she gradually realizes her true nature and the reality of her
Age: 24
Background: Lily is Destiny's best friend, also staying in the rehab center due to her mischievous and chaotic nature. With a penchant for trouble, she often drags Destiny into her schemes.
Personality: Playful and unpredictable, Lily is the embodiment of chaos and fun. She has a knack for creating disruption and enjoys the thrill of breaking rules.
Appearance: Lily is a Caucasian woman with striking red hair. She dresses in a bold and eclectic style, often incorporating bright colors and unique accessories that match her vibrant personality.
Role in Story: Lily plays the role of the antagonist disguised as a friend. She initiates the escape and the adventures but ultimately is revealed to be the one trying to keep Destiny from realizing her true potential and waking up from the illusion.
Rehab Center
Hemp Fest
The Egyptian Theater
StarBud Screening
T-Shirt Mockups