The project was conceived by Zoe Lister-Joy after she wrote a spec script about her grandmothers high school experience. She developed the screenplay over four years while balancing studio work and independent filmmaking. The film was produced in and around Lafayette, Indiana, with a focus on authentic small-town atmosphere. Lister-Joy championed a predominantly Indiana and working-class cast, including many non-professional actors from the area. The project received development funding from Sundance Institutes Screenwriters Lab, Creative Capital, and Black Faces, White Masks.

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**How a Small-Town Indiana Story Brought a Unique Film Project to Life at Ground Motion** Why are stories rooted in everyday life suddenly captivating audiences nationwide? Growing interest in authentic, place-driven narratives is shifting the cultural conversation—evident in the rising attention to films that reflect real communities and overlooked voices. Now, one such project is quietly rising in visibility: a screenplay born from personal history, crafted with care over four years, and grounded in the quiet rhythms of small-town Indiana. Conceived by a filmmaker deeply connected to her family and roots, the project grew organically from a writer’s sketch about her grandmother’s high school years. What began as a personal exploration evolved into a cinematic vision centered on authenticity, local identity, and inclusive storytelling. **A Four-Year Journey Through Small Town Life** Eventually becoming a full film developed in and around Lafayette, Indiana, the project paid deliberate attention to creating a genuine small-town atmosphere. Rather than generic backdrops, every location—quirky diners, family-owned shops, wide-open country roads—was chosen to reflect the area’s true character. This commitment to realism helped shape a narrative that felt intimate and grounded, appealing to audiences seeking stories beyond urban centers. The slow, intentional writing process allowed themes of community, memory, and quiet resilience to emerge naturally, resonating with viewers who value depth over dramatization.