CHANEL turns its attention to a story of identity, heritage and family history with Bloodline, the directorial debut short film by actress and longtime friend of the House, Fala Chen. Set against the vast desert landscape of Utah in 1952, the film follows two Chinese-American siblings as they retrace the footsteps of their grandfather, a Chinese immigrant who came to the United States in search of work. Bloodline will make its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 14, marking the international debut of Chen’s first short film.
Blending the atmosphere of horror with the visual language of the Western, Bloodline explores the experience of Chinese immigrants in American society and the complicated ways that history can be carried from one generation to the next. At its heart are questions of identity, belonging and inheritance, as the siblings come face to face with a past that has remained largely hidden. Their journey leads them to their grandfather’s abandoned house, where they uncover a mysterious treasure—one that threatens to change their relationship and forces them to confront the weight of their shared heritage.
For Fala Chen, the film is also a way of bringing an overlooked chapter of Chinese-American history into focus. Through the story of one family, Bloodline gives voice to a broader community and examines how the experiences of previous generations continue to shape those who come after them.
CHANEL is supporting the production of Bloodline as part of the House’s ongoing commitment to filmmaking and emerging creative voices. The project marks a new chapter for Chen, who steps behind the camera for the first time as a director.
