Hanukkah on the Rocks

In the heart of winter, just a week before Hanukkah, Tory, a recently unemployed lawyer, finds herself at a crossroads. Life has thrown her into an unexpected and unfamiliar situation, and the weight of her job loss leaves her feeling uncertain about the future. With the holiday season fast approaching, Tory feels disconnected from the festive cheer and traditions that once brought her comfort. Yet, as the Festival of Lights draws nearer, she sets off on a seemingly small yet meaningful quest: to find Hanukkah candles for her home.

What begins as a simple errand to gather the necessary items for the holiday transforms into something far greater. While searching for the perfect set of candles, Tory's path unexpectedly leads her to a cozy bar in Chicago, a place she never would have imagined finding herself. The bar, tucked away in a lively neighborhood, is not only a refuge from the winter chill but also a setting where Tory’s emotional and spiritual journey will unfold.

Inside the bar, Tory encounters a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere, completely different from the loneliness she has been feeling. The warm lights and the friendly faces of the regulars contrast sharply with her recent struggles. As she takes a seat and orders a drink, she strikes up a conversation with a stranger, and what begins as casual small talk gradually turns into something more profound. This moment marks the beginning of Tory’s unexpected emotional and romantic awakening.

The encounter sparks a series of events that change the course of Tory’s life. What she initially thought would be a solitary holiday spent in quiet reflection turns into an opportunity for connection, self-discovery, and a rekindling of the joy she had lost. As she becomes more immersed in the bar’s festive atmosphere, she realizes that Hanukkah—traditionally a time to celebrate miracles and hope—has a deeper meaning for her now. This year, the holiday symbolizes her own personal renewal.

Tory’s new connection at the bar helps her rediscover the power of love and human connection, reminding her that even in times of uncertainty, life has a way of leading us toward the light. Through heartfelt conversations, laughter, and shared moments, Tory learns that the true spirit of Hanukkah isn’t just about the candles or the traditions—it’s about embracing the possibilities life offers and finding joy even in the most unexpected places.

In the course of this transformative evening, Tory realizes that she has the courage to step away from her former career as a lawyer, which no longer aligns with her passions and desires. The encouragement of new friends and the newfound love that fills her heart push her to envision a future that is more authentic to her true self. No longer confined by the expectations she once had for herself, Tory begins to embrace a new path—a career and life driven by her passions and the courage to follow her heart.

By the time the last candle of Hanukkah burns down, Tory’s life has changed in ways she never imagined. What began as a quest to find the perfect Hanukkah candles ended up lighting the way to a new chapter, filled with love, hope, and the courage to embrace a future full of endless possibilities. Through her journey, Tory learns that sometimes, the smallest of journeys can lead to the most profound transformations.

Director: Séan Geraughty

Genre:

Cast: Daren Kagasoff, Marc Summers, Stacey Farber