Author: Lissette Mehl


Author: Lissette Mehl
Author's contact email: lee99mehl@gmail.com
Author's phone number: +57 318 447 98 35
Authors physical address:
C/O Bettina Mayer
Stubbenrauchstrasse 54
14167 Berlin
Germany

TITLE
The Spirit within

Logline:

A woman's battle to regain her physical abilities intertwines with a deeper spiritual awakening as she grapples with betrayal and confronts the nature of love and forgiveness.

Synopsis:
The Spirit Within is a poignant and uplifting tale that chronicles the extraordinary journey of Lissette Mehl, a woman who faces the harrowing aftermath of a stroke that leaves her partially paralyzed. The screenplay opens with Lissette, a spirited individual, typing with one hand as she navigates the challenges of her condition. Through her voiceover, she introduces the concept of the 'Spirit Within,' an invisible force that not only aided her recovery but also resides within every living being. The narrative unfolds through a series of flashbacks and present-day reflections, showcasing Lissette's childhood in Venezuela, her vibrant family life, and her dreams of becoming a dancer and a mother.

As the story progresses, we witness Lissette's life take a dramatic turn when she suffers a stroke at the age of 30. The initial shock of her condition is compounded by the emotional turmoil of her relationship with Alex, her boyfriend, who struggles to cope with the demands of caregiving. Lissette's journey through rehabilitation is depicted with raw honesty, highlighting her determination to reclaim her life and the support she receives from her mother, Noemi, and her stepfather, Klaus. The screenplay beautifully intertwines Lissette's physical struggles with her emotional battles, as she grapples with feelings of loss, frustration, and the quest for identity.

Throughout her rehabilitation, Lissette encounters various spirits that symbolize different aspects of her journey. Charlie, the humor spirit, encourages her to find laughter amidst the pain, while Beethoven's spirit inspires her through music. Elias, the imagination spirit, guides her to envision a brighter future. These spirits serve as metaphors for the resilience of the human spirit and the power of positivity in overcoming adversity.

As Lissette progresses in her therapy, she begins to embrace her new reality, finding strength in her vulnerability. The screenplay captures her moments of triumph, such as when she takes her first steps with a walker and learns to use her left arm again. However, it also delves into the darker moments of her journey, including the emotional fallout from her breakup with Alex, who ultimately cannot handle the pressures of their changed dynamic.

In a powerful climax, Lissette confronts her past and the societal expectations that have shaped her identity. She realizes that her stroke was not just a setback but a catalyst for transformation. With newfound clarity, she vows to embrace her destiny, not only for herself but for others who may be struggling. The screenplay culminates in a triumphant celebration of life, as Lissette walks along the beach, symbolizing her journey of healing and self-discovery. The Spirit Within is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the importance of connection, and the healing power of love and laughter.

Awards Won
2023
Multi Dimension Independent Film Festival: Award winner
Nature without borders : Award winner

2024
GIL International Screenwriting Awards: Award winner
Creative World Awards: Finalist
Indian Independent Film Festival: Award winner
Five Continents International Film Festival: Award winner
Breaking Walls Thriller Screenplay Contest: Finalist
Houston Comedy Film Festival: Finalist
Chicago Screenplay Awards: Quarter-finalist
LIT Laughs international Comedy Film Festival: Semi-finalist
Palm Springs Diversity Screenplay contest: Quarter-Finalist

2025
Nature without Borders
Interdependent Studio: Award winner