Estrella - A CSUN Senior TV Thesis

When Esperanza, a pregnant undocumented immigrant, goes into labor at a West Hollywood bus stop, a stranger brings her to a wealthy hospital, where she is met with indifference. But, in silence and fear, the birth of her daughter becomes an act of quiet resilience.

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We are excited to have you be part of this journey and process of Estrella, a senior thesis TV short, produced by our talented CSUN team. With your support we can bring this powerful emotional story to life.

What is Estrella about?

Estrella, follows the story of Esperanza, a pregnant undocumented immigrant in Los Angeles who goes into labor alone at a West Hollywood bus stop. A stranger silently helps her to a wealthy hospital, where she is met with suspicion instead of care. Isolated by language, status, and fear, she gives birth to her daughter in silence. But in that moment she finds strength and hope. Esperanza no longer feels invisible. She steps back into the world with something real...her child and her resilience. 

A note from our showrunner...

Estrella highlights an important perspective of an undocumented immigrant. It sheds light on the treatment they often face, not just within the health care system, but also from people who view them as less than human. This story is important to me because through this 20-minute short, viewers can step into Esperanza's shoes and truly feel what it's like to be in her place.

**ALL CONTRIBUTIONS TO ESTRELLA ARE 100% TAX DEDUCTIBLE**

Where will your donations go? 

Your generous contributions will help us bring Estrella to life with the quality and care it deserves. Here's how your support will be used.

Equipment: To rent professional camera, lighting and sound equipment that will ensure cinematic visuals and clear audio. 

Locations: To secure authentic, realistic locations that add depth, authenticity and production value to the story. 

Cast: To fairly compensate our talented SAG-AFTRA actors for their time, skill, and dedication. 

Cinematographer: To support our cinematographer, whose visual storytelling will enhance the emotional impact of the film.

Catering: To provide meals for our hardworking cast and crew, keeping everyone energized, focused, and cared for on set. 

Pre-production: To access essential tools and software for scheduling, budgeting and planning a smooth production process. 

Composer: To collaborate with a composer who can create a score that reflects the film's emotional depth and cultural nuance. 

Post-production: To work with a professional colorist who will help finalize the visual tone and bring the film's look to its full potential.

Social Media: 

@estrella.csunthesis

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Thank you for supporting us. Any kind donation helps us bringing Estrella to life and sharing Esperanza's powerful story with the world. Your support means more than you know!