The Boy in the Bottle is a short film that takes the form of a surrealist fairytale exploring expressions of the human condition in relation to generational curses, addiction, and self-image. Through symbols, gestures, sound, and text, I interrogate how myths and moods of being are handed down from parent to child in a Black family, as well as how behaviors that are useful in certain settings can also be harmful in others.

The film premiered in April 2023 in CITY PARK St. Louis as part of the opening reception for Counterpublic Triennial.

The Boy in the Bottle was written and directed by myself, with cinematography by Bradford Young, and is voiced by actor Cree Summer.