After working on this from September-April 2023-2024, I am delighted to showcase my thesis film, "COME BACK TO WHAT YOU KNOW."

This was an emotionally heavy piece, and when I was first drafting concepts for my film, a part of me worried that I wouldn't be able to pull this off. But with the support of my professors, friends, and classmates, I was able to bring this project to fruition. Making a film about my experiences in a predatory and abusive relationship has been one of the most eye-opening and therapeutic experiences in my life, and being able to reclaim my story and identity in a way that is empowering has helped me feel more secure in who I am and my place in not only in my interpersonal relationships but my place in the world.

Beyond my own experiences, my goal for this film is to provide comfort and visibility for others who have experienced trauma similar to mine. I vividly remember as a teenager, in the throes of being stuck with my abuser, thinking that I would never make it to adulthood. I have proven my younger self wrong, and am in a happier, better place.

Above all else, I want this film to be a reminder to anyone who has or is currently going through grooming and abuse that this will not be your grave, and the future you want is in your control.

Special thanks to

smileyjuiice for helping me with the VHS transfer

Torchkas, who permitted me to use her music in my film

MCA Animation Faculty and the 2023-2024 Animation Thesis class for being encouraging and pushing me to make my film what it is

My uncles, cousins, and sisters for being a safe space and supporting me for who I am

I hope you find closure in this film as much as I did.

Thank you for watching.

JC x