Film Award Wins: Chiara Gheller Makes a Bold Directorial Debut with What About You?

Actress Chiara Gheller steps confidently behind the camera in her debut directorial project, What About You?, a gripping short film that has already garnered international attention. Co-written by Chiara Gheller, Jayda Brown and Amy Webb, the drama recently earned a Certificate of Excellence and a Special Festival Mention at the 14th Kolkata Shorts International Film Festival 2025.

Set in the heart of Los Angeles, What About You? peels back the glossy layers of West Hollywood to explore what lies behind closed doors. The film poses the haunting question: “What if someone’s decision could change your life forever?”Centered on the aftermath of a tragedy, the story unravels a community’s hidden struggles in a place where image is everything and silence often speaks the loudest.

Behind Closed Doors: A Story of Silence, Secrets, and Impact

Chiara Gheller’s directorial voice comes through with emotional nuance in What About You?, blending character-driven storytelling with a stark portrayal of social realities. “Everyone in the City of Los Angeles has a story,” the film notes, “but in this West Hollywood residence, they are hidden behind closed doors.”

Ava, the film’s central character, becomes the tragic catalyst for the story’s unfolding. As the characters grapple with grief, shame, and identity, the narrative unearths unspoken societal pressures and the facades people wear to survive. This layered approach to storytelling highlights Gheller’s instinct not only as an actress but also as a socially conscious filmmaker.

Chiara Gheller on Storytelling: “I Want My Art to Move People”

In a recent interview following the film’s success, Chiara shared her vision for future projects and the kinds of narratives she feels most passionate about bringing to life.

“Real life’s stories; I love movies based on real events or people having existed because I found them even more impactful knowing that it actually happened whether it was sad or happy,” Chiara said.
“Other than the meaningful and powerful real life stories, I’d love to tell stories about what most people are too afraid to talk about, society’s taboos, topics that could create polemics, and create awareness. I don’t want my art to only be looked at, I want it to move people, to create debates and reflections.”

Her words reflect a filmmaker determined not to shy away from challenging subject matter, using cinema as both a mirror and a catalyst for change. If What About You? is any indication of what’s to come, Chiara Gheller is a voice to watch, both in front of and behind the camera!