Elias 2026
"It's okay if you go."
Directed by rising talent Nicolas Chae, *Elias (2026)* dives deep into the quiet storm of a Korean-American man's 21st birthday night in Koreatown Los Angeles.
Director: Nicolas Chae
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Elias (2026) about?
*Elias (2026)* follows a Korean-American man navigating the emotional turbulence of his 21st birthday in Koreatown. Burdened by years of sacrifice and the looming shadow of his absent father, he questions whether letting go is the key to keeping his promise to stay rooted in his life. The film explores themes of identity, legacy, and the quiet battles we fight alone.
Who directed Elias?
Nicolas Chae directs *Elias (2026)*, bringing a fresh and intimate perspective to this emotional drama.
Who stars in Elias?
The film stars Paul Syre in the lead role, alongside Sook Hyung Yang, Luke Kim, Sean Choi, and Bianca Zhou in pivotal supporting roles.
Is Elias (2026) worth watching?
As a short but intense drama, *Elias (2026)* offers a raw and relatable exploration of family and self-discovery. Though unrated on IMDb, its themes and tight runtime make it a compelling watch for fans of character-driven storytelling. It's a film that asks big questions without overstaying its welcome.
How long is Elias?
*Elias (2026)* has a runtime of 16 minutes.
About Elias (2026) — A 16-Minute Drama of Sacrifice and Letting Go
Directed by rising talent Nicolas Chae, *Elias (2026)* dives deep into the quiet storm of a Korean-American man's 21st birthday night in Koreatown Los Angeles. Haunted by his father's absence and the weight of his own unspoken sacrifices, Elias grapples with a crushing fear—that he might become the man who walked away. As neon signs flicker and memories blur, he questions whether letting go is the only way to keep the promise he's made to himself: to stay. This gripping 16-minute drama blends raw emotion with the pulse of urban life, painting a portrait of identity, responsibility, and the fragile line between holding on and moving forward.
Starring Paul Syre in a standout role, *Elias (2026)* pairs intimate storytelling with the urban rhythm of Koreatown. The film's atmospheric tension mirrors the internal conflict of its protagonist, who must confront the ghosts of his past before they define his future. Chae crafts a poignant, brief but powerful cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.