A dark comedy with teeth, Darn It Darla! made a memorable mark during its screening at the Hollywood Arab Film Festival (HAFF), where it was featured as part of the LA Voices Showcase highlighting standout talent from the Los Angeles filmmaking community.

Directed and led by Walid Chaya, a Lebanese-American filmmaker and actor, the short film explores the twisted dynamics behind the entertainment industry’s obsession with image, power, and media manipulation. Chaya plays Blake, a ruthless talent manager orchestrating a fabricated scandal to reignite the fading career of his former child-star client, Naveen.

Audiences responded strongly to the film’s sharp wit, visual boldness, and emotional undertones. Chaya’s on-screen pairing with Quincy Cho, who portrays the fame-hungry assistant Linda, drew praise for its blend of humor and edge. Their dynamic helped anchor the film’s satirical tone, supported by a vibrant ensemble cast. Both Chaya and Cho attended the screening, where they connected with audiences following the film.

Also present was Rawan Chaya, a Lebanese-American music artist whose original songs were featured in Darn It Darla! Her tracks provided a powerful sonic backdrop that deepened the emotional resonance of key scenes.

While Darn It Darla! isn’t an Arab-themed story, the inclusion of Walid Chaya — a Lebanese-American director and actor — underscores the festival’s dedication to celebrating Arab talent across all genres. The Hollywood Arab Film Festival continues to champion a wide range of voices, recognizing that Arab creatives play a vital role in shaping the broader cinematic landscape, whether they’re telling culturally specific stories or not.

Co-founded by Maykel Bakhoum and Abraam A. Mikhael, HAFF has become a meaningful space for dialogue and discovery. Held annually each April during Arab Heritage Month, HAFF connects Arab filmmakers with the U.S. industry through film programs and community-driven initiatives designed to elevate visibility and expand opportunity.

Darn It Darla! continues its festival run with its next screening scheduled at the Love Wins International Film Festival in Long Island, NY, on May 3, 2025, at 6:00pm — with additional appearances to be announced.

For more information about the film, visit darnitdarla.com.