Clams Casino (2018) dir. Pam Nasr

The lives of four Latina women are uniquely interwoven in Clams Casino. Arcelia Diaz is desperate to connect with her mother Gladys. While Gladys’ daily ritual consists of obsessive workouts and beautification, Arcelia spends her time in a strikingly different way. She often enjoys digging for clams and other crustaceans, cooking, and mastering the art of creating lavish tablescapes. While fervently using any available moment to establish a relationship with her mother, Arcelia is faced with harsh criticism and disgust. As a way of coping with this rejection, Arcelia immerses herself in preparing an elaborate dinner. Clearly there are other planned participants for this meal, but who are they and why does Arcelia place so much value on their presence?