Alex Borstein, the Emmy-winning actress known for her role as Susie Myerson in 'The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel', is set to star in a new family dramedy titled 'Turn the Lights Back On'. This film, written and directed by Dave Pantano, explores the challenges faced by families during the COVID-19 era. Borstein will portray Emma, a teacher navigating perimenopause, family responsibilities, and the difficult decision of placing her aging mother in assisted living, all while the world around her is in turmoil.
The movie is inspired by real-life experiences and draws parallels to films like 'Little Miss Sunshine', 'August: Osage County', and 'The Brothers McMullen'. It delves into the complexities of family dynamics during a period of isolation and uncertainty. Borstein's ability to balance humor and vulnerability, as highlighted by Pantano, will be crucial in capturing the emotional depth of Emma's journey.
'Turn the Lights Back On' is produced by a talented team, including Dino Maglaris, Harrison Chiu, and Addie Scott Irwin from Salado Pictures, as well as Borstein and Marni Rosenzweig from The Rosenzweig Group. The project is fully financed as a SAG-AFTRA independent feature and is expected to begin casting additional roles soon.
Borstein's impressive career includes notable roles in 'Getting On', 'Shameless', and her voice acting as Lois Griffin in 'Family Guy'. Her versatility and comedic timing make her an ideal fit for the demanding role of Emma. Pantano's experience in documentary series like 'Adaptive' further adds to the project's credibility and potential impact.
This film promises to offer a unique perspective on family dynamics during a challenging time, blending humor and emotional depth. With Borstein's talent and Pantano's vision, 'Turn the Lights Back On' is poised to become a compelling addition to the dramedy genre, shedding light on the struggles and resilience of families in the face of adversity.