“The Diamonds,” a captivating and unique genre-bending musical short film, is set to make a buzz in the film festival circuit. The film Starring Alicia Kidman, Amy Julia Rose, Kiara Kastle, and Benét Mvovi, goes into the lives of four young women sharing a living space and a burning desire to make their musical dreams a reality. Co-written by Amy Julia Rose and Alicia Kidman, “The Diamonds” explores the challenges, friendships, and heartbreaks that come with navigating the cutthroat world of show business.
A Story of Dreams and Hardships
The film centers around Yasmine, Lena, Phoebe, and Irene, four talented roommates who seize an opportunity when they discover a flyer for a girl group audition. Balancing their existing auditions, demanding work schedules, and late-night rehearsals, they pour their hearts and souls into preparing for this life-changing chance. However, the audition results send ripples through their friendship, forcing them to confront their individual aspirations and the sacrifices they are willing to make.
Unlike typical short films, “The Diamonds” includes a soundtrack of six original songs written by Rose and Kidman. These songs, including “Pressure Makes Diamonds,” the soulful “You’re Mine,” and the haunting “Distancia,” perfectly complement the narrative, enhancing the emotional impact of the story.
A Realistic Portrayal of Show Business
“The Diamonds” masterfully blends Disney Channel-esque nostalgia with the realities of Hollywood, offering a refreshing and honest perspective on the entertainment industry.
Meet the Diamonds
Yasmine Chance (Alicia Kidman)
Alicia Kidman delivers a powerful performance as Yasmine Chance, a determined dancer and singer who wholeheartedly believes in the power of hard work. Yasmine embodies resilience, always bouncing back from setbacks. However, Kidman portrays the character’s breaking point with raw emotion, showcasing the toll that relentless pursuit of a dream can take.
“If you can relate to Yasmine, my heart goes out to you,” says Kidman. “Playing Yasmine left me thinking for a long time after […]. The pursuit of a dream with no guarantee can make or break you.”
Lena San Marino (Amy Julia Rose)
Amy Julia Rose draws from her personal experiences as a singer-songwriter and film composer to portray Lena San Marino. Lena constantly pitches her compositions to movie studios, facing frequent rejection. Rose’s performance in this scene is particularly moving, capturing the initial hope and optimism of Lena turning into the crushing weight of rejection.
“One of the hardest parts of putting yourself out there is being rejected,” she says. “There’s nothing like sharing your vulnerability and creativity with directors, only to be told no in a condescending way. It’s absolutely soul-crushing.”
Phoebe Madimba (Benét Mvovi)
Benét Mvovi embodies the character of Phoebe Madimba, a talented singer who sometimes lacks the seriousness needed to reach her full potential. Like Phoebe, Mvovi is a first-generation Congolese woman defying expectations to pursue her dreams. Inspired by her love for the musical comedy “Glee,” Mvovi embraces the role of Phoebe as her own “Glee” moment.
Irene López (Kiara Kastle)
Kiara Kastle portrays Irene López, a shy and gentle soul who underestimates her own abilities. Irene admires the talent in those around her but fails to recognize her own potential. Encouraged to audition, she surprises everyone, including herself, with her hidden talent.
Supporting Cast and Production
The film also features a talented supporting cast, including Zachary Scott King as Fred, the director of the girl group auditions; Travis Neal as Fred’s assistant; Tuesday White as Esther, another auditioning girl; Roy Johns as a janitor; and Patrick Stephens as Matthew, the director who rejects Lena.
Directed and filmed by Garret Ryan, known for his work on “8mm Dreams” and “Pain Scale at the Parkside,” “The Diamonds” boasts stunning visuals and complete cinematography that enhance the storytelling.
Upcoming Short Film Release 2025
“The Diamonds” is currently in post-production and is scheduled for release in early May 2025. The production team has teased potential film festival appearances and screenings, generating excitement and anticipation among audiences.
With its compelling story and memorable songs, “The Diamonds” promises to be a moving and unforgettable short film that will leave audiences with a lasting impact!