Lo Que Pasó, Pasó (or What Happened, Happened)
New York City, New York | Film Short
Drama, Shorts Program
A Dominican deejay-influencer returns home for a kidney and confronts her past, her mother's curse AND her ghost in a volatile, indifferent America. Lo Que Pasó, Pasó is a Dominican-American story that celebrates culture, spirituality, and resilience in the face of modern-day cruelty and absurdity.
Lo Que Pasó, Pasó (or What Happened, Happened)
New York City, New York | Film Short
Drama, Shorts Program
1 Campaigns | New York, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $5,795 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
39 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
A Dominican deejay-influencer returns home for a kidney and confronts her past, her mother's curse AND her ghost in a volatile, indifferent America. Lo Que Pasó, Pasó is a Dominican-American story that celebrates culture, spirituality, and resilience in the face of modern-day cruelty and absurdity.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Our mission is to depict Luna's journey in Lo Que Pasó, Pasó (What Happened, Happened) where healing not only means defeating her terminal illness but also reconnecting with her family. With this film and future projects, we aim to make movies about compelling topics and subjects that center characters Hollywood often ignores in stories that are memorable and unpredictable.*
*Para una traducción al español de esta pagina, haz clic AQUÍ: (Page translation for Spanish readers: )
HAUNTED BY A CURSE, FIGHTING FOR HER TRUTH
IMAGINE if it was you — suddenly diagnosed with a terminal illness caused by your mother's curse. Though she has passed, her presence still haunts you as you return home, seeking help from your sister and aunt.
This is Luna’s journey in Lo Que Pasó, Pasó, a story of secrets, connection, and healing.
Luna’s life has been a hard one ever since she was young. After her strict Catholic mother, Saracena, kicked her out, Luna left New York City and struggled to make her way as a DJ and social media influencer in the Dominican Republic. Finally on the cusp of getting fame and making money, she is struck with a terminal kidney disease that she believes was her dying mother’s last wish for her.
Luna returns home hoping her younger sister, Sol, is a match for a kidney donation. Knowing Sol has abandonment issues with Luna who saw her as a second mom, Luna wants to tell Sol the truth as to why she had to leave, which is tied to a long-buried family secret. Meanwhile her aunt, Tia Avenary, has turned to the Afro-Dominican religion of 21 Divisions over the years and wants to make up for not doing more to stop her sister, Saracena, from mistreating Luna.
But now that she is back home, facing her mother’s haunting presence and the broken relationships with her family, Luna isn’t sure she can trust Tia’s guidance. It is only after Luna struggles to reveal her secret that Tia offers to eradicate the curse, restore their bond, and exorcise Saracena's ghost with a ritual. Despite this cathartic process, Luna is still not fully convinced until an unexpected tragedy tests her belief and resolve.
Lo Que Pasó, Pasó was a quarterfinalist in ScreenCraft Film Fund's 2025 script contest.
Kayra Lopez as Luna Toro
A deejay & social media influencer returning home with a terminal illness
to confront her mother's curse and share a painful secret.
Lorena Peralta as Sol Toro
A devoted daughter and aspiring journalist determined to save her sister, Luna,
and understand why she still blames their mother, Saracena, even after her death.
Yanelba Ferreira as Tia Avenary
A tough yet spiritual aunt who balances fierce loyalty to her sister, Saracena,
with the burden of a long-held family secret that she now desires to correct.
Diana Pou as Saracena
A haunting maternal presence whose shadow
and curse continue to shape Luna's life beyond the grave.
.
Like most filmmakers, I dream of making films. But it's hard to make a living that way in the USA. As a way to make a living and learn the business, I went to law school and became an entertainment lawyer. Shortly after that, I had my kids and film work took a pause. Even after over a decade as a lawyer, my passion for storytelling remains strong. And now that my kids are older, I’m ready to bring my stories to life. With my background as a filmmaker, lawyer, dad, and boardmember of the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute (CCCADI), I have the skills and drive to actually create the type of work I’ve always wanted to make.
This film is very personal to me. I’ve always been drawn to spirituality and ritual, and growing up Dominican-American in New York has inspired me to tell stories about that identity in all its complexity. And then on top of that, this story is inspired by a young Dominican woman I knew, facing a terminal illness. I wondered about how she coped and the strength she drew from her family. And while I couldn't cure her, the least I could do was pay homage to her with a story that offers an honest, fresh look at Dominican life in the U.S. with a complex female protagonist.
The timing for this film feels urgent.
It reflects the United States I see today— conspiratorial, divided, harsh, and often unkind, especially to immigrants and people of color who have contributed so much. And let's be real, Latina and Latino voices still remain underrepresented in film, especially behind the camera. As if to make matters worse, what little diversity gains have been made in the last 20 years are being rolled back.
With rising anti-DEI / anti-CRT sentiments, media consolidation, and job cuts, it’s harder than ever to tell these important AND entertaining stories. While one film can’t change everything, this first film in our trilogy aims to build a community of artists and audiences hungry for unique stories like Lo Que Pasó, Pasó. Ultimately, I want to create a beautiful, engaging film that keeps this community growing and coming back for more.
FILMS WE LOVE
Lo Que Pasó, Pasó draws inspiration from the haunting visual poetry and layered storytelling of films like Daughters of the Dust, Mulholland Drive, Cure, Enter the Void, Cocote, I Knew Her Well, and One Way or Another. These films, known for their immersive atmospheres and explorations of identity, spirituality, and trauma, serve as a visual and emotional compass for our story to explore and depict themes like identity, spirituality, and trauma.
CREATIVE DIRECTION
Our creative direction for Lo Que Pasó, Pasó is centered on immersing the audience in Luna’s world through a blend of haunting, poetic imagery and layered storytelling. We will use natural lighting to ground the film in authentic, everyday life, contrasting it with subtle supernatural glows and visual distortions—like flickering television light and grainy security footage—to blur the line between reality and the ethereal. We want to use light and shadow to create a mood that is both intimate and unsettling, reflecting the emotional weight Luna carries and the mysterious presence that haunts her.
Visually, the film’s color palette and lighting design are carefully crafted to support the narrative’s emotional journey. Warm, earthy tones will highlight moments of family connection and tradition, while cooler, desaturated hues will evoke clinical coldness. Using specialized camera equipment and lenses, we want to frame our characters in a way that captures the intimate, intense moments of their lives.
And we won't forget about good sound. We aim to create a rich, immersive experience through sound and music that draws viewers deeply into the film’s unique world.
Our project is 80% funded and currently in pre-production with a talented team ready to bring this story to life. We have a clear budget, filming schedule, and crowdfunding plan in place.
If we get to $5,000, we will have the bare minimum to fund and make the film. Specifically, it will help us secure key locations, design our sets with the essential props and equipment, and feed and transport our dedicated cast and crew.
If we get to $6,500, we can enhance the design of Tia's home and the clinic to make colors and symbols stand out more. We will also be able to buy or make more and better props. We will also increase the pay pro rata for each member of our hardworking talented team.
If we get to $7,500, we can invest in crucial post-production elements like professional color grading, sound design, music composition, and VFX.
You can get more information about specific things we need in our budget by going to the "Wishlist" tab.
Our ultimate production goal is to make a film that elevates everyone in it.
Your pledge will help us achieve it.
As of January 2026:
Core Team of Producers, Cinematographer, and Assistant Director in place
Key Roles Casted
What Comes Next:
February 2026 - Crowdfunding Starts
March 2026 - Crowdfunding Ends
April to June 2026 - Pre-Production / Rehearsals / Production Begins (4 Day Shoot with 2 Days of Contingencies)
May 2026 - Development of Film #2 in the Shorts Trilogy
Summer 2026 - Post-Production (Editing, Color Correction, Score, Credits, etc.)
Fall 2026 - Festival Submissions
OUR PLAN FOR WHEN THE FILM IS FINISHED
Once Lo Que Pasó, Pasó is completed, we will submit the short film to prestigious film festivals, including those known for showcasing Latino and dramatic short films, to build critical acclaim and audience awareness.
Following the festival circuit, we will pursue distribution partnerships with established platforms such as Mubi, Criterion Channel, HBO Latino, and niche streaming services that cater to our target audience.
Depending on the distribution partnerships we secure, we will also explore self-distribution online and collaborate with like-minded organizations for in-person screenings.
PLEASE NOTE
We plan to share a downloadable link of the finished film with our funders shortly after the first major festival premiere, rather than before. This timing respects festival premiere policies and helps maintain eligibility for key festivals, while still rewarding supporters with early access. Sharing the film too early could limit festival opportunities and affect distribution deals, so this balance supports both our fundraising community and our broader release strategy.
First off, thank you for making it this far! I know it's alot to digest and I appreciate your time.
If you're inspired to support Lo Que Pasó, Pasó, check out our "Incentives" tab for our film-themed merch and exclusive giveaways that celebrate our cultural storytelling! We've created donation tiers for every budget, from digital thank-yous to a VIP festival experience. As a lawyer, I'm excited to offer our my comprehensive written guides on contracts, business matters, and intellectual property (IP) protection in the "Production Partner" tier, and a practical video tutorial on contract law, business law, and IP law in our "Festival Circle" tier.
Even if you can't donate financially, sharing our campaign helps tremendously. Remember, by supporting us, you're not just getting cool rewards—you're joining a vibrant community of artists and storytellers committed to authentic representation and unique stories, with special invites to virtual creative workshops and early access to future collaborative opportunities.
Follow the Campaign and Pledge Today!
Not able to pledge? You can still help by sharing our project with your family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and anyone else who you might run into at the bodega or the salón cuz we don't just want to make this film, we want people in our communities to see it, from mami and papi to primo and prima to your friends on the block. Every share makes a difference!
It's really easy to do too, just:
- Follow the film on Instagram and visit www.LQPPfilm.com for updates on the campaign, behind-the-scenes insights, and news about everything related to the film or the trilogy.
- After following, please share the campaign on social media or via text / WhatsApp to help us grow our community and reach our goal.
Here are 2 ready-to-copy posts to share:
POST 1 (318 characters w/spaces)
Discover Lo Que Pasó, Pasó, a powerful drama about family, secrets, and reconciliation—with a touch of surrealism and ghosts—by filmmaker Danny Jiminian. Check it out on IG and follow: @CineLoQuePasoPaso
Go to Seed&Spark to help bring this Dominican-American story to the screen: https://seedandspark.com/fund/lqppfilm/
POST 2 (138 characters w/spaces)
Discover Lo Que Pasó, Pasó, a drama on family & secrets by Danny Jiminian.
IG: @CineLoQuePasoPaso & support: seedandspark.com/fund/lqppfilm
✧˖°── .✦────☼────☆────☾────✦.── °˖✧
P.S. last thing, leave a comment to boost visibility too! 😉
Thank you! ¡Gracias!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Production Design: Home & Clinic Décor
Costs $2,000
From Luna’s Dominican-American family home to her renal clinic, help us design authentic sets & props, like her aunt's Afro-Caribbean altar.
Location Magic: Clinic Scenes
Costs $700
Part of Luna's journey unfolds at the doctor's office. Help us find a clinic with a lobby, hallway, and doctor's office for a 1 day shoot.
Meals and Craft Services: Fueling Our Awesome Team
Costs $1,400
During our 4-day shoot, help us keep up to 12 cast & crew members stay sharp, motivated, and energized throughout the day.
Transportation Flow: Making Moves
Costs $400
For location moves or cast/crew/gear transport, we need a van for 4 days. (P.S. image is from "I Knew Her Well." NO smoking in OUR van tho).
Location Magic: Restaurant Revelation Scene
Costs $500
This helps us cover part of the fees / permits we need to shoot Luna’s pivotal, intimate restaurant scene, during off-hours.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
The Crew
Danny Jiminian | Writer / Director / Producer
Danny is a Dominican-American writer, filmmaker and lawyer with 13 years practicing in the areas of contracts, copyrights, trademarks, business law, non-profits, and entertainment law. His associate producer screen credits include Clique, Six to Six, H.O.M.E., Underwater, and numerous indie projects. He writes, produces, and directs stories that find the surreal in reality (or the reality in the surreal?) for experiences that stay imprinted in the audience's minds. With Lo Que Pasó, Pasó, his first film in a trilogy of shorts about culture, conspiracies, and the cosmic from a Dominican-American lens, he is making a film for those who like their status quo a little shaken and stirred. Danny dedicates this film to the Dominican diaspora and everyone in the struggle trying to rise.
Mario Rosales | Producer
Mario is a Guatemalan-born filmmaker based in the Bronx, NY, with a bachelor's degree in Communication and Media Studies and a master's in Cinematography and Film/Video Production. As a senior producer at CUNY TV and writer/director for Occularis Films, he has earned 10 Emmy awards for his work on I Am A Dreamer and Nueva York, spotlighting immigrant and Latinx stories. Mario’s experience includes producing independent films like El Regreso de Lencho / The Return of Lencho and shorts such as Amorfo – Te Busqué and Y Dora, Alicia. Passionate about art, human rights, and LGBTQIA advocacy, he brings creativity and social commitment to everything he does.
Lily Burd-Orama | Producer / Casting Supervisor
Lily Burd is a Producer and Casting Supervisor. In her day job, she specializes in recruiting and managing actors for medical simulation projects. She has a keen eye for talent and a deep understanding of performance honed over her time working with experimental theater and dance groups. In addition to her production work, Lily has also contributed to academic research and remains very active in her local community.
Haffe Acosta | Director of Photography
Haffe is a Dominican-American cinematographer and camera professional with over 20 years of experience. A City College of New York graduate and IATSE Local 600 member, he has worked on a wide range of projects including feature films like John Wick Ch. 3: Parabellum, TV series such as Bosch: True Legacy and The Horror of Dolores Roach, and shorts like Iridescence and Faithless. With nearly 80 credits as a cinematographer, camera operator, and assistant camera, Haffe brings deep expertise and a rich cultural perspective to Lo Que Pasó, Pasó.
Pari Karkehabadi | Assistant Director
Pari Karkehabadi is a New York City–based Assistant Director and production professional with experience across short films, commercials, and feature projects. She has contributed to productions such as Like Mother, Like Daughter and Buying Joy, where she has demonstrated strong skills in scheduling, crew coordination, and maintaining efficient workflows on set. Pari’s background includes hands-on roles in sound mixing, lighting assistance, and production support, giving her a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process. Known for her clear communication and collaborative approach, she fosters positive environments that help productions run smoothly. Pari combines her technical expertise with a team-oriented mindset to support every department and ensure project success, drawing on her past work in fast-paced kitchen environments .
The Cast
Kayra Lopez | "Luna Toro"
Kayra Lopez is a New York-based multidisciplinary artist who works as a model, photographer, and actress. She has established herself in NYC's vibrant creative scene, collaborating with some of the hottest up-and-coming photographers and stylists in the business. Her work as a model has allowed her to develop a unique perspective behind the camera, informing her own photography and acting work. As an actress, Kayra brings authentic character interpretations shaped by her diverse artistic background and visual storytelling expertise.
Lorena Peralta | "Sol Toro"
Lorena Peralta is a New York-based actress, model, and playwright known for her dynamic presence across theater, film, and commercial work. In 2026, she was awarded Pregones/PRTT's STEP UP Artist Residency for the play she wrote, Pietamina. She has performed in a variety of stage productions including Citizen: An American Lyric, A Doll's House, and Night Vision, showcasing her versatility and strong command of screen and stage acting techniques. Lorena’s film credits include roles in the short film TMG (feat. Guevara) and Nemo Vicit. Fluent in English and Spanish, she combines her bilingual skills with athleticism and improvisation training to bring authenticity and energy to her performances. Alongside acting, Lorena has experience in commercial, lifestyle, and parts modeling, making her a multifaceted talent in the New York creative scene.
Yanelba Ferreira | "Tia Avenary"
Yanelba Ferreira is a New York City–based actress and SAG-AFTRA member with a rich background in film, television, and theater. Her screen credits include lead and supporting roles in projects such as Like Mother, Like Daughter, LOADED, Phase, and television appearances on Law & Order, Law & Order: SVU, and Investigation Discovery specials. Raised in NYC with Dominican roots, Yanelba brings authentic cultural depth to her performances, having portrayed multiple Dominican characters over her career. On stage, she has appeared in productions including HerStory 2025, Yo Soy Latina!, and Un chicle en la relación. Fluent in English and Spanish, Yanelba combines her bilingual skills with a strong foundation in improvisation, screen acting, and movement to deliver compelling, nuanced performances. She continues to expand her craft through ongoing training and collaboration within New York’s vibrant creative community.
Diana Pou | "Saracena"
Diana Pou is a New York-based actress and voiceover artist with extensive training from The William Esper Studio’s Meisner program and The American Musical and Dramatic Academy. She has earned critical acclaim for her work in theater, including standout performances in Mercado Libre (HOLA Awards Outstanding Lead Actor, ATI Awards Best Independent Theatre Actress), ¡Guaracha! (NYTimes Critic’s Pick, ATI Awards nominee), and The Desire of the Astronaut (ATI Best Actress in English-Language Theatre Produced by Latinos). Diana’s film and TV credits include lead roles in Lala On Facebook and La Condesa, as well as voiceover narration for notable audiobook series such as Camila and A Touch of Moonlight. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she brings versatility to her performances, enhanced by skills in Latin dance, stage combat, and music. Diana continues to contribute to the vibrant New York theater scene while expanding her voiceover career.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Our mission is to depict Luna's journey in Lo Que Pasó, Pasó (What Happened, Happened) where healing not only means defeating her terminal illness but also reconnecting with her family. With this film and future projects, we aim to make movies about compelling topics and subjects that center characters Hollywood often ignores in stories that are memorable and unpredictable.*
*Para una traducción al español de esta pagina, haz clic AQUÍ: (Page translation for Spanish readers: )
HAUNTED BY A CURSE, FIGHTING FOR HER TRUTH
IMAGINE if it was you — suddenly diagnosed with a terminal illness caused by your mother's curse. Though she has passed, her presence still haunts you as you return home, seeking help from your sister and aunt.
This is Luna’s journey in Lo Que Pasó, Pasó, a story of secrets, connection, and healing.
Luna’s life has been a hard one ever since she was young. After her strict Catholic mother, Saracena, kicked her out, Luna left New York City and struggled to make her way as a DJ and social media influencer in the Dominican Republic. Finally on the cusp of getting fame and making money, she is struck with a terminal kidney disease that she believes was her dying mother’s last wish for her.
Luna returns home hoping her younger sister, Sol, is a match for a kidney donation. Knowing Sol has abandonment issues with Luna who saw her as a second mom, Luna wants to tell Sol the truth as to why she had to leave, which is tied to a long-buried family secret. Meanwhile her aunt, Tia Avenary, has turned to the Afro-Dominican religion of 21 Divisions over the years and wants to make up for not doing more to stop her sister, Saracena, from mistreating Luna.
But now that she is back home, facing her mother’s haunting presence and the broken relationships with her family, Luna isn’t sure she can trust Tia’s guidance. It is only after Luna struggles to reveal her secret that Tia offers to eradicate the curse, restore their bond, and exorcise Saracena's ghost with a ritual. Despite this cathartic process, Luna is still not fully convinced until an unexpected tragedy tests her belief and resolve.
Lo Que Pasó, Pasó was a quarterfinalist in ScreenCraft Film Fund's 2025 script contest.
Kayra Lopez as Luna Toro
A deejay & social media influencer returning home with a terminal illness
to confront her mother's curse and share a painful secret.
Lorena Peralta as Sol Toro
A devoted daughter and aspiring journalist determined to save her sister, Luna,
and understand why she still blames their mother, Saracena, even after her death.
Yanelba Ferreira as Tia Avenary
A tough yet spiritual aunt who balances fierce loyalty to her sister, Saracena,
with the burden of a long-held family secret that she now desires to correct.
Diana Pou as Saracena
A haunting maternal presence whose shadow
and curse continue to shape Luna's life beyond the grave.
.
Like most filmmakers, I dream of making films. But it's hard to make a living that way in the USA. As a way to make a living and learn the business, I went to law school and became an entertainment lawyer. Shortly after that, I had my kids and film work took a pause. Even after over a decade as a lawyer, my passion for storytelling remains strong. And now that my kids are older, I’m ready to bring my stories to life. With my background as a filmmaker, lawyer, dad, and boardmember of the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute (CCCADI), I have the skills and drive to actually create the type of work I’ve always wanted to make.
This film is very personal to me. I’ve always been drawn to spirituality and ritual, and growing up Dominican-American in New York has inspired me to tell stories about that identity in all its complexity. And then on top of that, this story is inspired by a young Dominican woman I knew, facing a terminal illness. I wondered about how she coped and the strength she drew from her family. And while I couldn't cure her, the least I could do was pay homage to her with a story that offers an honest, fresh look at Dominican life in the U.S. with a complex female protagonist.
The timing for this film feels urgent.
It reflects the United States I see today— conspiratorial, divided, harsh, and often unkind, especially to immigrants and people of color who have contributed so much. And let's be real, Latina and Latino voices still remain underrepresented in film, especially behind the camera. As if to make matters worse, what little diversity gains have been made in the last 20 years are being rolled back.
With rising anti-DEI / anti-CRT sentiments, media consolidation, and job cuts, it’s harder than ever to tell these important AND entertaining stories. While one film can’t change everything, this first film in our trilogy aims to build a community of artists and audiences hungry for unique stories like Lo Que Pasó, Pasó. Ultimately, I want to create a beautiful, engaging film that keeps this community growing and coming back for more.
FILMS WE LOVE
Lo Que Pasó, Pasó draws inspiration from the haunting visual poetry and layered storytelling of films like Daughters of the Dust, Mulholland Drive, Cure, Enter the Void, Cocote, I Knew Her Well, and One Way or Another. These films, known for their immersive atmospheres and explorations of identity, spirituality, and trauma, serve as a visual and emotional compass for our story to explore and depict themes like identity, spirituality, and trauma.
CREATIVE DIRECTION
Our creative direction for Lo Que Pasó, Pasó is centered on immersing the audience in Luna’s world through a blend of haunting, poetic imagery and layered storytelling. We will use natural lighting to ground the film in authentic, everyday life, contrasting it with subtle supernatural glows and visual distortions—like flickering television light and grainy security footage—to blur the line between reality and the ethereal. We want to use light and shadow to create a mood that is both intimate and unsettling, reflecting the emotional weight Luna carries and the mysterious presence that haunts her.
Visually, the film’s color palette and lighting design are carefully crafted to support the narrative’s emotional journey. Warm, earthy tones will highlight moments of family connection and tradition, while cooler, desaturated hues will evoke clinical coldness. Using specialized camera equipment and lenses, we want to frame our characters in a way that captures the intimate, intense moments of their lives.
And we won't forget about good sound. We aim to create a rich, immersive experience through sound and music that draws viewers deeply into the film’s unique world.
Our project is 80% funded and currently in pre-production with a talented team ready to bring this story to life. We have a clear budget, filming schedule, and crowdfunding plan in place.
If we get to $5,000, we will have the bare minimum to fund and make the film. Specifically, it will help us secure key locations, design our sets with the essential props and equipment, and feed and transport our dedicated cast and crew.
If we get to $6,500, we can enhance the design of Tia's home and the clinic to make colors and symbols stand out more. We will also be able to buy or make more and better props. We will also increase the pay pro rata for each member of our hardworking talented team.
If we get to $7,500, we can invest in crucial post-production elements like professional color grading, sound design, music composition, and VFX.
You can get more information about specific things we need in our budget by going to the "Wishlist" tab.
Our ultimate production goal is to make a film that elevates everyone in it.
Your pledge will help us achieve it.
As of January 2026:
Core Team of Producers, Cinematographer, and Assistant Director in place
Key Roles Casted
What Comes Next:
February 2026 - Crowdfunding Starts
March 2026 - Crowdfunding Ends
April to June 2026 - Pre-Production / Rehearsals / Production Begins (4 Day Shoot with 2 Days of Contingencies)
May 2026 - Development of Film #2 in the Shorts Trilogy
Summer 2026 - Post-Production (Editing, Color Correction, Score, Credits, etc.)
Fall 2026 - Festival Submissions
OUR PLAN FOR WHEN THE FILM IS FINISHED
Once Lo Que Pasó, Pasó is completed, we will submit the short film to prestigious film festivals, including those known for showcasing Latino and dramatic short films, to build critical acclaim and audience awareness.
Following the festival circuit, we will pursue distribution partnerships with established platforms such as Mubi, Criterion Channel, HBO Latino, and niche streaming services that cater to our target audience.
Depending on the distribution partnerships we secure, we will also explore self-distribution online and collaborate with like-minded organizations for in-person screenings.
PLEASE NOTE
We plan to share a downloadable link of the finished film with our funders shortly after the first major festival premiere, rather than before. This timing respects festival premiere policies and helps maintain eligibility for key festivals, while still rewarding supporters with early access. Sharing the film too early could limit festival opportunities and affect distribution deals, so this balance supports both our fundraising community and our broader release strategy.
First off, thank you for making it this far! I know it's alot to digest and I appreciate your time.
If you're inspired to support Lo Que Pasó, Pasó, check out our "Incentives" tab for our film-themed merch and exclusive giveaways that celebrate our cultural storytelling! We've created donation tiers for every budget, from digital thank-yous to a VIP festival experience. As a lawyer, I'm excited to offer our my comprehensive written guides on contracts, business matters, and intellectual property (IP) protection in the "Production Partner" tier, and a practical video tutorial on contract law, business law, and IP law in our "Festival Circle" tier.
Even if you can't donate financially, sharing our campaign helps tremendously. Remember, by supporting us, you're not just getting cool rewards—you're joining a vibrant community of artists and storytellers committed to authentic representation and unique stories, with special invites to virtual creative workshops and early access to future collaborative opportunities.
Follow the Campaign and Pledge Today!
Not able to pledge? You can still help by sharing our project with your family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and anyone else who you might run into at the bodega or the salón cuz we don't just want to make this film, we want people in our communities to see it, from mami and papi to primo and prima to your friends on the block. Every share makes a difference!
It's really easy to do too, just:
- Follow the film on Instagram and visit www.LQPPfilm.com for updates on the campaign, behind-the-scenes insights, and news about everything related to the film or the trilogy.
- After following, please share the campaign on social media or via text / WhatsApp to help us grow our community and reach our goal.
Here are 2 ready-to-copy posts to share:
POST 1 (318 characters w/spaces)
Discover Lo Que Pasó, Pasó, a powerful drama about family, secrets, and reconciliation—with a touch of surrealism and ghosts—by filmmaker Danny Jiminian. Check it out on IG and follow: @CineLoQuePasoPaso
Go to Seed&Spark to help bring this Dominican-American story to the screen: https://seedandspark.com/fund/lqppfilm/
POST 2 (138 characters w/spaces)
Discover Lo Que Pasó, Pasó, a drama on family & secrets by Danny Jiminian.
IG: @CineLoQuePasoPaso & support: seedandspark.com/fund/lqppfilm
✧˖°── .✦────☼────☆────☾────✦.── °˖✧
P.S. last thing, leave a comment to boost visibility too! 😉
Thank you! ¡Gracias!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Production Design: Home & Clinic Décor
Costs $2,000
From Luna’s Dominican-American family home to her renal clinic, help us design authentic sets & props, like her aunt's Afro-Caribbean altar.
Location Magic: Clinic Scenes
Costs $700
Part of Luna's journey unfolds at the doctor's office. Help us find a clinic with a lobby, hallway, and doctor's office for a 1 day shoot.
Meals and Craft Services: Fueling Our Awesome Team
Costs $1,400
During our 4-day shoot, help us keep up to 12 cast & crew members stay sharp, motivated, and energized throughout the day.
Transportation Flow: Making Moves
Costs $400
For location moves or cast/crew/gear transport, we need a van for 4 days. (P.S. image is from "I Knew Her Well." NO smoking in OUR van tho).
Location Magic: Restaurant Revelation Scene
Costs $500
This helps us cover part of the fees / permits we need to shoot Luna’s pivotal, intimate restaurant scene, during off-hours.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
The Crew
Danny Jiminian | Writer / Director / Producer
Danny is a Dominican-American writer, filmmaker and lawyer with 13 years practicing in the areas of contracts, copyrights, trademarks, business law, non-profits, and entertainment law. His associate producer screen credits include Clique, Six to Six, H.O.M.E., Underwater, and numerous indie projects. He writes, produces, and directs stories that find the surreal in reality (or the reality in the surreal?) for experiences that stay imprinted in the audience's minds. With Lo Que Pasó, Pasó, his first film in a trilogy of shorts about culture, conspiracies, and the cosmic from a Dominican-American lens, he is making a film for those who like their status quo a little shaken and stirred. Danny dedicates this film to the Dominican diaspora and everyone in the struggle trying to rise.
Mario Rosales | Producer
Mario is a Guatemalan-born filmmaker based in the Bronx, NY, with a bachelor's degree in Communication and Media Studies and a master's in Cinematography and Film/Video Production. As a senior producer at CUNY TV and writer/director for Occularis Films, he has earned 10 Emmy awards for his work on I Am A Dreamer and Nueva York, spotlighting immigrant and Latinx stories. Mario’s experience includes producing independent films like El Regreso de Lencho / The Return of Lencho and shorts such as Amorfo – Te Busqué and Y Dora, Alicia. Passionate about art, human rights, and LGBTQIA advocacy, he brings creativity and social commitment to everything he does.
Lily Burd-Orama | Producer / Casting Supervisor
Lily Burd is a Producer and Casting Supervisor. In her day job, she specializes in recruiting and managing actors for medical simulation projects. She has a keen eye for talent and a deep understanding of performance honed over her time working with experimental theater and dance groups. In addition to her production work, Lily has also contributed to academic research and remains very active in her local community.
Haffe Acosta | Director of Photography
Haffe is a Dominican-American cinematographer and camera professional with over 20 years of experience. A City College of New York graduate and IATSE Local 600 member, he has worked on a wide range of projects including feature films like John Wick Ch. 3: Parabellum, TV series such as Bosch: True Legacy and The Horror of Dolores Roach, and shorts like Iridescence and Faithless. With nearly 80 credits as a cinematographer, camera operator, and assistant camera, Haffe brings deep expertise and a rich cultural perspective to Lo Que Pasó, Pasó.
Pari Karkehabadi | Assistant Director
Pari Karkehabadi is a New York City–based Assistant Director and production professional with experience across short films, commercials, and feature projects. She has contributed to productions such as Like Mother, Like Daughter and Buying Joy, where she has demonstrated strong skills in scheduling, crew coordination, and maintaining efficient workflows on set. Pari’s background includes hands-on roles in sound mixing, lighting assistance, and production support, giving her a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process. Known for her clear communication and collaborative approach, she fosters positive environments that help productions run smoothly. Pari combines her technical expertise with a team-oriented mindset to support every department and ensure project success, drawing on her past work in fast-paced kitchen environments .
The Cast
Kayra Lopez | "Luna Toro"
Kayra Lopez is a New York-based multidisciplinary artist who works as a model, photographer, and actress. She has established herself in NYC's vibrant creative scene, collaborating with some of the hottest up-and-coming photographers and stylists in the business. Her work as a model has allowed her to develop a unique perspective behind the camera, informing her own photography and acting work. As an actress, Kayra brings authentic character interpretations shaped by her diverse artistic background and visual storytelling expertise.
Lorena Peralta | "Sol Toro"
Lorena Peralta is a New York-based actress, model, and playwright known for her dynamic presence across theater, film, and commercial work. In 2026, she was awarded Pregones/PRTT's STEP UP Artist Residency for the play she wrote, Pietamina. She has performed in a variety of stage productions including Citizen: An American Lyric, A Doll's House, and Night Vision, showcasing her versatility and strong command of screen and stage acting techniques. Lorena’s film credits include roles in the short film TMG (feat. Guevara) and Nemo Vicit. Fluent in English and Spanish, she combines her bilingual skills with athleticism and improvisation training to bring authenticity and energy to her performances. Alongside acting, Lorena has experience in commercial, lifestyle, and parts modeling, making her a multifaceted talent in the New York creative scene.
Yanelba Ferreira | "Tia Avenary"
Yanelba Ferreira is a New York City–based actress and SAG-AFTRA member with a rich background in film, television, and theater. Her screen credits include lead and supporting roles in projects such as Like Mother, Like Daughter, LOADED, Phase, and television appearances on Law & Order, Law & Order: SVU, and Investigation Discovery specials. Raised in NYC with Dominican roots, Yanelba brings authentic cultural depth to her performances, having portrayed multiple Dominican characters over her career. On stage, she has appeared in productions including HerStory 2025, Yo Soy Latina!, and Un chicle en la relación. Fluent in English and Spanish, Yanelba combines her bilingual skills with a strong foundation in improvisation, screen acting, and movement to deliver compelling, nuanced performances. She continues to expand her craft through ongoing training and collaboration within New York’s vibrant creative community.
Diana Pou | "Saracena"
Diana Pou is a New York-based actress and voiceover artist with extensive training from The William Esper Studio’s Meisner program and The American Musical and Dramatic Academy. She has earned critical acclaim for her work in theater, including standout performances in Mercado Libre (HOLA Awards Outstanding Lead Actor, ATI Awards Best Independent Theatre Actress), ¡Guaracha! (NYTimes Critic’s Pick, ATI Awards nominee), and The Desire of the Astronaut (ATI Best Actress in English-Language Theatre Produced by Latinos). Diana’s film and TV credits include lead roles in Lala On Facebook and La Condesa, as well as voiceover narration for notable audiobook series such as Camila and A Touch of Moonlight. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she brings versatility to her performances, enhanced by skills in Latin dance, stage combat, and music. Diana continues to contribute to the vibrant New York theater scene while expanding her voiceover career.