By: Aman Jalan
Filmmaker Dante Hillmedo is bringing together familiar faces from television, music, and social media in his newly released feature film Butterfly.
The coming-of-age drama features actress and television personality Tahiry Jose, actress, recording artist, and entrepreneur Lea Robinson, and Jamaica’s pioneering YouTube comedian Trabass as part of a cast that helps tell a story centered on resilience, self-discovery, and pursuing passion despite life’s challenges.
The film recently earned Best Feature Film honors at the Big Apple Film Festival before securing worldwide distribution across major digital platforms.
For Hillmedo, the inclusion of recognizable talent was an important part of bringing the project’s vision to life.
“Every person involved brought something unique to the film,” Hillmedo said. “Whether it was their experience, personality, or perspective, they helped elevate the story in ways that audiences will appreciate.”
Butterfly follows Jericha, a Bronx teenager facing bullying, family struggles, friendship, and personal growth while finding an escape through dance. While the story focuses on a young woman’s journey, the film also explores broader themes of immigration, community, perseverance, and self-belief.
Tahiry Jose, known for her work in television and entertainment, appears in the film as Principal Jose, while Lea Robinson brings her presence as an actress, recording artist, and entrepreneur to the role of Diamond Noir. Trabass, whose comedy and online content have earned him a dedicated following, also makes an appearance in the project.
The film marks a major milestone for Hillmedo, who spent nearly two years bringing the production to life.
Unlike many independent films, Butterfly was financed primarily through Hillmedo’s own resources after early crowdfunding efforts generated only a portion of the required budget.
“I self-funded Butterfly because I wasn’t able to secure the investment needed to bring the vision to life,” Hillmedo explained. “Crowdfunding only generated a small portion of what was needed, so I bet on myself. Through my savings and support from my mother and father, I was able to finish the film.”
Hillmedo is no stranger to the entertainment industry.
Over the past decade, the Bronx native has worked behind the camera covering events and productions involving some of entertainment’s biggest names, including Jay-Z, Drake, DJ Khaled, Michael Rubin, Kim Kardashian, Megan Thee Stallion, and Lil Baby.
Yet despite years of success as a videographer and content creator, Butterfly represents his most personal project to date.
The filmmaker wrote, directed, produced, shot, edited, and composed the score for the film himself.
That dedication was ultimately recognized when Butterfly captured Best Feature Film at the Big Apple Film Festival.
“I’ve spent years behind the camera capturing major events and working around some of the biggest names in entertainment, but winning Best Feature Film at the Big Apple Film Festival was different,” Hillmedo said. “Competing against films connected to legendary directors and Academy Award-winning actors and coming away with that recognition was a major milestone.”
As audiences continue discovering the film, Hillmedo hopes viewers connect with its message of perseverance and purpose.
“When people watch Butterfly, I want them to understand that your passion can pull you through some of the darkest moments in life,” he said. “Even when things feel overwhelming, continue doing the things you love. You never know what opportunities or miracles can come from simply pursuing what brings you joy.”
Butterfly is available now on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube Movies and TV, Google Play, and Fandango at Home.
For more information and where-to-watch links, visit the official Butterfly film website. You can also watch the official Butterfly trailer on YouTube
