One of the major highlights of the 2026 El Dorado Film Festival was the screening of *Honeyjoon*, a film by writer-director Lilian T. Mehrel. This emotionally rich, life-affirming comedy-drama—which premiered at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival—is now reaching wider audiences as it continues its festival run, offering viewers the chance to discover the impressive debut of a filmmaker with a diverse range of fascinating interests.
Set and filmed in the beautiful Azores islands off the coast of Portugal, *Honeyjoon* tells a mother-daughter story with a unique flavor. It is a tale steeped in profound humanity, conveyed primarily through its two sharply defined protagonists. Their individual experiences, emotional complexities, and radically opposing philosophies fuel the emotional drama while also giving rise to intelligent, often unexpected humor.
Director: Lilian T. Mehrel
Writer: Lilian T. Mehrel
Stars: Ayden Mayeri, Amira Casar, José Condessa
The free-spirited June (Ayden Mayeri) and her more reserved mother, Lela (Amira Casar), travel to the Azores to mark the first anniversary of the death of their husband and father. Years earlier, he had visited the islands and dreamed of bringing his family there one day; however, he was diagnosed with cancer and passed away before he could make the trip. Consequently, June and Lela undertake the journey on their own to honor his memory.
Yet, mother and daughter find themselves at very different stages of life. They hold opposing views on how to grieve, how to move forward, and just how skimpy June’s clothing should be. The latter detail sparks one of the film’s best running gags while also helping to clarify their clashing perspectives. Notably, Mehrel passes no judgment on either character; she simply explores the factors that have shaped their respective worldviews.
Upon arriving at their hotel, June and Lela find themselves surrounded by honeymooning couples. To escape such intense intimacy, they book a private island tour led by an attractive surfer named João (José Condessa). June, acting openly flirtatious, tries to catch João’s eye; however, he seems far more interested in engaging in philosophical conversations with Lela. Ultimately, the time spent with João opens their eyes, allowing them to see each other in a new light.
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