Youlanda Burnett short film spots the hidden toll of alcohol addiction

Filmmaker Youlanda Burnett is using her award-winning short film Death by Alcohol to spotlight the emotional and health consequences of alcoholism, betrayal and women’s health challenges. The film has picked up festival recognition as Burnett pushes for more awareness, prevention and early intervention.

Why it matters: - Death by Alcohol is meant to spark conversations about addiction, family strain and women’s health. - The film centers the human impact of alcohol dependency, not just the statistics. - Burnett is using the project to encourage awareness, support and early intervention.

What happened: - Award-winning creative artist and filmmaker Youlanda Burnett wrote, produced and directed Death by Alcohol. - The short film follows a functioning alcoholic whose behavior raises concern within the family before a shocking medical discovery changes the course of several lives. - The film is designed to highlight how addiction can remain hidden for years while affecting relationships, decisions and overall well-being.

The details: - Death by Alcohol addresses addiction, alcoholism, betrayal and women’s health. - The film uses emotional storytelling and realistic performances to show the warning signs of alcohol dependency. - The cast includes Michael Odeh, Montrice Eileen, Kristi Alsip and Brando Elemental. - Burnett says the film was created to open conversations about prevention, awareness and recovery. - The project has received the award for First Time Filmmaker at the New World Film Festival. - Death by Alcohol also earned a Script Symphony Award for first-time filmmaker. - The film has collected multiple nominations from festivals around the world.

Between the lines: - The film’s festival traction suggests the subject matter is resonating beyond its social message. - Burnett is pairing a personal narrative with a public health theme, which can make addiction stories more accessible to broad audiences. - The timing fits wider conversations about mental wellness, family health and substance abuse.

What's next: - Burnett is continuing to promote the film as a way to expand awareness around alcohol addiction. - More people can learn about the project at more information. - Festival recognition could help the film reach additional audiences and build momentum for future screenings.