“A creative, dramatic, and sometimes humorous look at modern love.” - Benjamin Franz, Film Threat
“Set during the holiday break between Christmas and New Year’s, it feels like you’re the one getting the gift.” - Stephen Saito, Moveable Fest
Sunday, May 18, 5:30 p.m. | In BEN AND SUZANNE, A REUNION IN 4 PARTS, after a long separation, Ben Santhanaraj (Sathya Sridharan) journeys to Sri Lanka to rekindle his relationship with an NGO worker, Suzanne Hopper (Anastasia Olowin). But when Suzanne’s boss demands she work during their vacation, their love is tested by desire versus duty. Ben tries everything to revive their intimacy, leading to candid conversations and chaotic twists as New Year’s Eve—and Ben’s departure—looms ahead.
Awards & Nominations
Nominee - Grand Jury Award, Narrative Feature, SXSW
Nominee - Golden Hanoman Award, Main Competition, Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival
Asian American Showcase | May 16–22, 2025
Presented as an annual collaboration with the Foundation for Asian American Independent Media and now celebrating its 28th year, the Asian American Showcase (AAS) provides a platform for new work by established and emerging Asian American filmmakers. Synopses provided by AAS. Learn more at faaim.org.
The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu