Set against the backdrop of New York’s urban and suburban landscapes, Worthy follows Kris, a young lesbian navigating complicated relationships with her family and her partner, Junie. As Kris’s life unravels under the weight of opioid addiction, she is forced to confront her past and the complex landscape of recovery that surrounds her.The story traces Kris’s path toward self-discovery and resilience, shaped by a charged love triangle with Junie and her close friend Maggie, adding emotional depth and tension to her journey. Through struggle, loss, and hard-earned insight, Kris begins to reclaim her sense of worth and channel her lived experience into helping others facing similar battles.Worthy offers a raw, compassionate portrayal of addiction and recovery, exploring both the promise and the challenges within existing systems, while acknowledging the unique experiences of LGBTQ individuals seeking care, connection, and belonging.
THEMES
Addiction and Recovery
A realistic portrayal of the struggles and triumphs associated with opioid addiction.
Self-Worth & Redemption
Kris’s journey towards reclaiming her self-worth and redeeming her past.
LGBTQ+ & Family Dynamics
The complexities and conflicts for family members highlight the broader impact of addiction.
MEET THE CHARACTERS
Kris
Underdog protagonist
An underdog protagonist, Kris is a resilient young woman battling opioid addiction, determined to survive on her own terms while rebuilding her life, her relationships, and her sense of self-worth..
Junie
Secondary Character
A compassionate and resilient partner who provides emotional stability and moral guidance, challenging Kris to confront her addiction while navigating the complexities of their deep, evolving relationship.
Maggie
Secondary Character
A quirky, loyal friend with her own struggles, Maggie’s eccentricities and deep bond with Kris add emotional complexity and tension, making her both a source of support and conflict.
Drake
Antagonist
A manipulative and unscrupulous drug dealer who exploits Kris’s vulnerability. Drake is charismatic yet ruthless, drawing people into his web of addiction for his own gain. His presence in Kris’s life represents the darker temptations she must overcome.
Nurse Janice
Antagonist
Nurse Janice is a methadone clinic nurse whose emotional distance and rigid professionalism mirror the limitations of a system struggling to care for everyone who needs it.
KEY SCENES
01
Teenage Rebellion
Kris’s early life sets the stage for her struggle with addiction.
02
Masking Struggle
Kris doctor shops, visits multiple pharmacies, and sells drugs to maintain a facade of control.
03
Family Funeral
A climactic reveal of deep-seated family issues and internal conflict.
04
Relationship Resolution
Khris’s heartfelt conversation with Maggie about their future.
05
Methadone Clinic
The start of Kris’s quest to fix the system.
COMPARABLE FILMS
“This project is very close to my heart as it’s based in part on my own experiences and shared to provide much needed hope to those affected by addiction.”
— CHRISTINE OLIVA-CASTILLO, AUTHOR
FESTIVAL FEEDBACK
DIVERSITY FILM FESTIVAL
The writer does a great job of developing three compelling anti-heroines who are empowering in their fallibility, struggles, and emotional complexities. Overall, this story breaks ground by featuring female leads and memorable secondary characters who are neither forced to be perfectly strong nor to be one-note stereotypes in a male-led tale.
THE TORONTO FEMALE FILM FESTIVAL
This script works really well. The author has constructed an emotionally compelling and nuanced narrative which is supported by natural dialogue and strong visual language. The author has a strong sense of writing for the visual language and it is easy to see how this would translate to the scene for an entertaining and heartfelt viewing experience.
SCRIPTREADER
The screenplay delves into the complexities of addiction and its impact on relationships and personal growth. Well-developed characters with emotional depth and compelling dynamics… Realistic portrayal of mental health : The screenplay explores mental health issues, such as OCD and anxiety, in a realistic and sensitive manner.
THE TEAM BEHIND THE SCREENPLAY
Christine Oliva-Castillo
Author & Co-Director
Christine is a writer who has been working in the substance use disorder field for over 15 years. She is a passionate advocate for individuals suffering from substance use and mental health disorders, with a special focus on those impacted by the opioid epidemic.
Bradley Raymond
Co-Director
Bradley is the director of Disney’s critically acclaimed and award-winning film The Lion King 1 ½, Tinkerbell and Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World. Disney’s Oscar nominated feature Raya and the Last Dragon was based on a story by Brad. He studied directing and writing at the American Film Institute and UCLA Extension.
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