un

related

an adoption roadtrip dramedy
When two contentious sisters, one biological and one adopted, journey to meet the adopted sister’s birthmother, they must reconcile differing views of their childhood before their paths permanently diverge.
melissa-director

director statement


UNRELATED is the story of two sisters and the far-reaching complexities of adoption. Told from two atypical perspectives, this film features main characters who essentially want the same thing — connection — but are held back by their past experiences and convictions.

As a filmmaker, I’ve always used humor and structured storytelling to discover emotional truth. While I agree with the adage “there is a grain of truth to every joke,” I also believe that the joke makes the audience more receptive to the truth. I envision UNRELATED as a touching yet entertaining dramedy that oscillates between quirky comedy and deep emotional drama.

What’s more, I hope this film can educate and create empathy for adoptees and their families, using the universal themes of family, belonging, and understanding to resonate with a broad audience.

meet The filmmakers

Melissa Rossi

Writer / Director

Leslie Goyette

Producer

JP Perry

Producer

Kevin Michaluk

Director of Photography

filming summer 2026

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