Directed by Joseph Ruzer

Cast

Andrew Mojica, Stacey Griffin, Latef Roberts, Jennifer Figueroa, Joseph Ruzer, Prince Sunny, Gabrial Alazraki, Jessica Alazraki

An eccentric and fame hungry Dominican bodega owner openly brags to a documentary crew and social media about his store being a front for a criminal drug enterprise operating out of the South Bronx. The cameras follow his ascent to insta-fame as he encounters thugs, drug lords and gold diggers- all trying to get a piece of the action along the way.

Director Statement

In today’s digital age, addiction and narcissism are deeply intertwined. Our smartphones have become an extension of ourselves, and the constant need to check for notifications, updates, and likes has led to a culture of addiction and self-obsession.

According to multiple peer reviewed studies however, the addictive behavior associated with overusing one’s cell phone is no different than being addicted to cocaine. What do you get when you combine both of these types of addictive behaviors? Welcome to the world of ‘Bodega’.

Bodega is meant to entertain, but also to provoke thought and conversation about the broader issue of addiction, modern day narcissism and their interconnectedness. My sincerest hope is to make you laugh and think all the same time- hopefully, without checking your phone in the process.

Runtime: 1 hour 21 minutes

Country of Origin: United States