


About AFI Thesis Production
The AFI Conservatory—ranked among the top three film schools in the U.S. and often #1—has trained generations of filmmakers who shape the industry today. The Thesis Production is the pinnacle of its program: the moment Fellows transform two years of rigorous training into their most ambitious, personal film.
Unlike earlier projects, thesis films receive no school funding. Each team must raise its own budget to meet professional standards, mirroring the realities of the industry. These films premiere at top festivals worldwide and serve as the launchpad for the next wave of bold new voices in cinema.
Support us in telling a coming-of-age story that explores the challenges of growing up between two worlds, and celebrates the simple beauty of the present and the connections we find across differences.

About the Story
Cathy, a 20-year-old college student, feels trapped spending her summer babysitting Anna and Dylan, two Taiwanese immigrant kids, while her friends are free to live out their holidays. Restless and desperate for escape, she decides to bring the kids to one of the LA beaches, hoping they’ll wear themselves out and grant her a moment of rest before she sneaks off to a party that night.
By the time they arrive, however, Cathy is already worn down by the kids’ constant squabbles. Collapsing onto the sand, she finds herself enveloped by waves, salt air, and stillness. Slowly, her view of the children shifts—from burdens to companions—and within this fleeting summer afternoon, she experiences a quiet yet profound coming-of-age moment.

About this Film
The Beach Day is a coming-of-age story about learning to cherish what we have and finding companionship across differences. It’s about the small moments we often overlook—the ones that shape us quietly, without notice.
Growing up isn’t only about chasing what’s next; sometimes it’s about pausing, seeing what’s already here, and appreciating it. For children like Anna and Dylan, whose immigrant parents work tirelessly to build a new life, childhood often feels shortened.
Through them, Cathy begins to see differently: distance turns into closeness, and cultural and generational divides give way to friendship. Together, they remind us that even across differences, we can always find each other.
About the Characters
Cathy (20, White)
20-year-old Cathy, an English literature major, is stuck babysitting two kids from a Taiwanese immigrant family during summer break—a job she got through her parents. Hoping to catch up on her friend’s eventful summer, she borrows her brother’s car and takes the kids to the beach for a brief escape.
Dylan (6, Taiwanese)
Dylan is full of imagination and boundless curiosity. Often the target of his sister’s teasing, he retreats into his own little world and finds comfort and safety in watching ipad whenever he gets the chance.
Meet the Team
Meet the minds and hearts driving our film forward.

How to Support Us
Support Us with Donations
This film is the biggest project we’ve taken on, created by a team of AFI international students and collaborators who share the same dream. We’ve raised $27,000 toward our $53,000 goal, but we can’t finish without your help.
Every contribution goes where it matters most—building sets, renting cameras, making sure our child actors are cared for, and giving our crew the tools they need. After filming, we’ll also need support for sound, music, color, and visual effects to make the story shine.
By supporting us, you’re not just helping make a film—you’re helping give voice to stories that often go unheard, and supporting emerging filmmakers who deserve to be seen and heard.
Benefits of Donations
1. Tax-Deductible Giving
For U.S. taxpayers, the American Film Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to celebrating excellence in film and advancing national education initiatives. Through our fiscal sponsor, GiveButter, all donations are fully tax-deductible and directly support our film’s production, post-production, and festival submissions.
2. Credits Recognition
As a token of our gratitude, donors will be acknowledged in our film credits with tiers of recognition—Special Thanks, Associate Producer, or Executive Producer—based on their level of contribution.
Support Us with In-Kind Donations
Not all support comes in dollars—in-kind donations fuel the heart of our production. From equipment, costumes, props, and locations to catering and professional services, your contribution directly powers the storytelling on screen. Every gift helps us stretch our budget and bring more artistry to the work. If you’re interested, send us a message—we’d love to discuss how your support can leave a lasting mark on this film.