Sofia Camargo and Joseph Longo’s short film We’re Not Done Yet is a touching exploration of the complexities of the mother-son relationship. A collaboration between Colombian director Sofia Camargo and writer-actor Joseph Longo, the film delivers a heartfelt story that strikes a delicate balance between emotional resonance and lighthearted charm. This beautiful film has been selected to screen at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival.
The film delivers a heartfelt and humor-filled story that strikes a delicate balance between emotional resonance and lighthearted charm. This beautiful short will screen at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival,
The narrative centers on Alex, played by Longo himself, who visits his newly single mother, Bettina, for a weekend at her beach house. Portrayed by the legendary Barbara Sukowa, Bettina is a woman rediscovering her independence. Alex’s struggle to adapt to his mother’s new sense of freedom forces him to examine his own controlling tendencies. The intimate beach house setting provides a rich and symbolic backdrop for a story about navigating change, family dynamics, and the inevitable push-and-pull of growing up and letting go.
What sets We’re Not Done Yet apart is the chemistry between Longo and Sukowa—likely bolstered by their real-life mother-son bond. Sukowa brings a nuanced performance that captures the joy, heartbreak, and humor of parenting an adult child, while Longo deftly balances Alex’s flaws and vulnerability, making his character relatable and endearing. The script’s wit and tenderness allow the performances to shine, creating moments that feel both universal and deeply personal.
What sets We’re Not Done Yet apart is the chemistry between Longo and Sukowa—likely bolstered by their real-life mother-son bond
Director Sofia Camargo’s visual storytelling elevates the material with an understated yet evocative approach. Known for her award-winning cinematography, Camargo brings her expertise to the film’s visuals, using the coastal setting to reflect the emotional tides between the characters. The shots of Bettina’s beach house, infused with natural light and serene ocean views, contrast beautifully with the tension brewing beneath Alex’s carefully constructed exterior.
The film’s behind-the-scenes talent further underscores its pedigree. Longo’s writing feels authentic, drawing from personal experiences while offering a narrative arc that is at once specific and relatable. The production team, including producers Louis Anania and Pauline Glomaud-Murmann, brings a seasoned touch to the film. Their combined expertise ensures the short is polished and impactful, while the collaborative energy between cast and crew is palpable in every frame.
The film’s behind-the-scenes talent further underscores its pedigree.
As a short film, We’re Not Done Yet is a testament to the power of the format, as it captures a significant emotional journey in just a brief runtime. With its combination of sharp writing, strong performances, and thoughtful direction, the film is a standout in Sundance’s Short Film Program.
With its combination of sharp writing, strong performances, and thoughtful direction, the film is a standout in Sundance’s Short Film Program.
Joseph Longo’s plans to expand the world of this story into a feature film (Lost at the Beach of Sunken Ships) are particularly exciting, as We’re Not Done Yet leaves the audience eager to spend more time with these characters. For now, the short stands on its own as a beautifully crafted slice of life, a celebration of the messy, joyful, and sometimes painful relationships that shape us.
We’re Not Done Yet is an engaging and heartfelt short film that explores the complexities of family with humor and grace. With standout performances from Sukowa and Longo, paired with Camargo’s assured direction, it’s a must-see at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival.
Scarlett Jones, We Love Short Film
