"Uncaged"... is a deeply personal project, reflecting my past experiences as a student-athlete and my current struggles with mental health challenges. Being the first in my family and one of the few to make it out of my environment came with immense pressure. The expectation to fix everything, survivor's guilt, and past trauma often stifled me, masked behind my talents. Losing my best friend, who got me to play basketball to stay out of trouble, to gun violence, along with other childhood friends, left me feeling I never belonged and was the only one to make it out. Therapy revealed this was the start of my isolation and internal battle.This film sheds light on the silent battles many young athletes face, especially young NIL athletes. It explores themes of identity, resilience, and the overlooked struggle with mental health in sports.To bring this story to life, I used intimate close-ups and wide shots to emphasize the protagonist's isolation and internal conflict. Intentional choices, like the symbolic apparel designs or the authoritative therapist's high-backed chair compared to the protagonist feeling small in a large world, were intended to enhance the visual storytelling. The color palette transitions from cold, muted tones to warmer hues as the character begin to embrace their inner struggles.I wrote this after my first month of therapy, hoping to grow, and collaborated with a talented cast and crew committed to the film's message. I hope "Uncaged" resonates with viewers, especially those who see their struggles reflected in the protagonist's journey. Even in our darkest moments, there is strength in acknowledging and facing our inner shadows.