How Sophia Meloni Brought CHOP CHEESE to Life | Palm Springs Shortfest

Filmmaker Sophia Meloni joins us to talk about CHOP CHEESE, her debut short film premiering at the 2026 Palm Springs International ShortFest. In this conversation, Sophia breaks down why a New York City bodega was the perfect setting to capture the small rituals and in-between moments that define youth, and how the iconic chop cheese sandwich becomes a metaphor for her 16-year-old protagonist's coming-of-age journey. Sophia also opens up about the deeply personal inspiration behind the film — her brother Dante, who not only sparked the story but worked on set as a PA. And in one of the more unique filmmaking stories you'll hear, her father Christopher Meloni stars in the film while also pulling grip and PA duties, with mom handling craft services. Sophia talks candidly about what it was like to step into the director's chair and become the boss of her own family. We also look ahead — CHOP CHEESE is just the beginning of a planned series of shorts exploring adolescence through everyday moments, and Sophia gives us a peek at what's coming next. 🌴 CHOP CHEESE has its World Premiere this Friday at 5:30 PM as part of the Strictly Business program at the Palm Springs International ShortFest. Don't miss it! Timestamps worth noting: Bodega as a vessel for youth 🗽 The chop cheese sandwich as metaphor 🥪 Brother Dante's reaction to seeing his life on screen 👀 Directing dad Christopher Meloni on set 🎬 World Premiere at Palm Springs ShortFest 🌴 What's next in the series Congrats to Sophia on an incredible debut. Welcome to ShortFest! 🎉 #ChopCheese #PalmSpringsShortFest #SophiaMeloni #ShortFilm #IndieFilm #ComingOfAge #NewYorkCity #Bodega #FilmFestival