Bora is a psychological thriller that Toney not only stars in but also wrote and co-directed.
The film is a passion project born out of an incredibly challenging time. Toney has spoken openly about the film’s origins during the pandemic, when she and her small team were “at rock bottom, living out of [their] cars.” The film, as Toney puts it, was a mental escape, a way to channel their creative energy into something special. She invested the last of her money into the project, believing in its potential even when others thought they were “crazy.”
Bora tells the story of Elon, a USC grad-student on a road trip of self-discovery, who encounters a mysterious Afro-Mexican hitchhiker named “Bora” on Day of the Dead. The film delves into themes of temptation and urban legend, with Toney describing the titular character as a “sexy, Afro-Mexican female” who is the “Freddie or Jason of this generation.” It’s a unique fusion of Black and Brown culture in Los Angeles, a reflection of the city’s diverse landscape and a story that Toney felt needed to be told. The film, which was made with a tiny team of three—Toney, Andre “Chyna” McCoy, and DP James M. Black—is a remarkable feat of independent filmmaking, highlighting the power of creative collaboration and resourcefulness.
The journey of Bora is a testament to the film’s quality and the team’s dedication. It has screened at various festivals, including Salt Lake City near Sundance, the Essence Film Festival, and the Athens (Greece) International Film Festival. The film’s success has also led to a wider release on platforms like Amazon Prime and Tubi, allowing a broad audience to experience Toney’s compelling vision. The film’s critical reception has been strong, with many praising its unique storyline and Toney’s captivating performance.
While Bora has enjoyed significant success on the festival circuit and streaming platforms, the dream of a grander stage for the film continues to burn brightly. There has been significant buzz surrounding the possibility of a debut at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in France. Cannes is the pinnacle of international cinema, and a premiere there would not only be a monumental achievement for Toney and her team but also a powerful symbol of independent filmmaking’s ability to compete on a global scale. It would be a moment of triumph for a film born from grit and determination, showcasing a powerful story and a breakout performance from a multi-talented artist who refused to let any “box” define her. A Cannes debut for Bora solidified Toney’s place in the cinematic world, validating her unique voice and proving that with passion and perseverance, a dream born on the streets of Los Angeles can find its way to the French Riviera.
Read more about Tiffany’s journey and get a copy of The Fox Magazine featuring Tiffany Toney released in August!
