A lonely little ghost yearns for their first friend, as they are constantly overlooked and looked through. The perfect opportunity arises as the first day of school approaches. 

Director Biography

Dedicated to the art of filmmaking, Yanely “Nelly” Castellanos, (they/them) amplifies diverse voices and representation of Queer BIPOC. Beyond film, they are actively involved with nonprofits, channeling their passion for community involvement through event organizing and youth outreach. Their first short film, Daydreamers, was an official selection for CineYouth, the Big Teeth Small Shorts Film Festival, and earned the “Audience Choice Award” at the Cariño Festival de Cine in its 2024 festival run.

Director Statement

As far as I can remember, I knew I was meant to be an artist. I am grateful to have a family that has always encouraged me to pursue that dream. A privilege I am aware not many working - class Latine people get to declare. Despite my blessings, I became depressed at the age of 10 years old. My art shifted from a means of mere aesthetic expression to becoming a crucial outlet when my feelings became overwhelming.

Being openly queer and brown as a teenager, I took it upon myself to detach from others' expectations of me. If you let someone's opinion influence your sense of being, you are no longer living your own life. In the process, I not only learned to love myself but discovered my love of filmmaking. Since, I have built a passionate community of diverse creatives similar to myself aiming to make a shift in the industry. My hope is that "This Ghost Wants a Friend", serves as a reminder to young audiences that they should never have to change their character for the satisfaction of others. The right people will always find you!