Chestnut is a story about Annie who just graduated college and decides to stay behind in Philadelphia for the summer. She has a good job lined up in L.A. come fall and is seemingly ready to make the leap, but things still feel unfinished. During this aimless in-between period, Annie finds herself getting entangled with Tyler, a woman she meets outside a bar one night, and Danny, Tyler’s co-worker… or best friend… or more? Annie is never quite sure. Chestnut follows Annie through a summer of self-discovery as all three of them battle for unrequited connection, ultimately helping Annie find her voice in desire, independence, and comfort in change.
Chestnut has a deep connection to Philadelphia and its unique bar and nightlife scene. It was incredibly important to shoot in Philly as it informed so much of the style and tone of the film. Focusing on that liminal time after college, Philadelphia was the perfect backdrop to personify the feeling of freedom and exploration because it naturally goes from being a bustling campus-driven city to a bit of an empty playground during the hazy summers. This is the feeling Chestnut captures.
Jac Cron, the film’s director, and the cast & crew, were dedicated to making this gentle, nostalgic, and emotional film about a young woman feeling untethered in this particular moment in her life. Cron hopes that there is a resurgence of tender, explorative films, especially in telling queer stories.
Chestnut stars Natalia Dyer (Stranger Things), Danny Ramirez (Top Gun), and Rachel Keller (Tokyo Vice) and comes to VOD on July 2nd.