Tera Wong (Hedy Wong) delivers Chinese food for her mother’s struggling restaurant located in a territory referred to as the “Low Bottoms” in south central Los Angeles. And everyone around her, including her unpredictable brother (Saren), are financially trapped in this crime and violence-ridden neighborhood. That is until Tera takes a job from a local drug lord, moving “product” inside her takeout food containers. With the cash rolling in, Tera intends to move the family restaurant to the suburbs and go clean. But after a series of tragic events, the dream that Tera built on a foundation of lies, may just crumble.”

Take Out Girl’s Writer/Director Hisonni Johnson chatted with us about meeting Hedy and her original idea, the in and outs of making a low budget film, and so much more!!

Interview – Filmmaker Hisonni Johnson:

Take Out Girl revolves around the dynamic appeal of lead actress Hedy Wong. Her ability to come across as tough and sexy really highlights her unique range. You don’t want to underestimate this little lady’s ambitions. Her fearless nature is a real showcase piece to the film and Hedy as an individual. Add in some quality actors around Hedy helps make the film seem so authentic. Ski Carr’s fantastic cowboy gangster portrayal of Lalo is a real treat. As you heard in the interview, Ski brought along his own dancing white shoes, fancy jewelry including his gold grill and the cowboy hat. Overall the flashy nature of Lalo seems so different than the shadowy feel of Tera, but their constant fight for wealth links this Shakespearean connected duo. Add in the loyal brothers of Lalo and Tera and you have two more fun characters. Lorin Alond Ly dives fully into his performance as Saren, the drug dealing/gun toting older brother of Tera. J. Teddy Garces has a towering presence as Lalo’s second-in-command/brother Hector. A stoic performance by Lynna Yee as Tera/Saren’s hardworking mother also stands out and helps give Take Out Girl it’s realistic good Samaritan feel.

Hisonni’s script slaps you strongly with a lovely twist to the unique connections all these folks have in common. The reveal moment of who all these characters really are is timely and terribly tragic. Our tale isn’t one to shy away from the reality that the gangster life never ends happily ever after. Take Out Girl has a really enjoyable fun style that is well paced, tremendously acted and constantly growing. A real gem can be found in this little ol’ indie from Hisonni Johnson.

Take Out Girl’s social media game is on point and a great start to find out what’s next for the film.

Directed by: Hisonni Johnson

Written by: Hisonni Johnson and Hedy Wong

Rated Not Yet Rated – But R seems right

Selig Rating 3.5 Stars

Drama

Starring: Hedy Wong, Lorin Alond Ly, Ski Carr, J. Terry Garces, Lynna Yee

The Selig Rating Scale:

5 Stars – Excellent movie, well worth the price.

4 Stars – Good movie

3 Stars – OK movie

2 Stars – No need to rush. Save it for a rainy day.