IAJ Media has released the official trailer for its upcoming short film Love & Other Crimes, a gripping crime drama that dives deep into questions of justice, morality, and the human condition.
The ensemble cast includes Justin P. Slaughter (90 Feet From Home), Jordan Nancarrow (Surviving The Cartel), Jaelyn Sierra, Jon Meggison, Antonio Smith, and Giovanny Vasquez. Love & Other Crimes is directed by Clarito Zapanta, produced by Kristina Zapanta, written by Brandon Newman, and shot by cinematographer Reuben Evans.
The film follows Noah Thomas, whose life takes a dangerous turn after a chance reunion with an old high school friend draws him into a ruthless crime ring. As he becomes entangled in the syndicate’s violent world, his romance with Shaye Matthews offers a fragile glimpse of redemption. Torn between love and survival, Noah must navigate betrayal and deadly choices that threaten everything he values.
Currently making its way through the festival circuit, Love & Other Crimes will screen on November 28 at the Leuven International Film Festival, an Academy Awards, BAFTA, and European Film Awards qualifying event. The film’s final submission will be to the Tribeca Film Festival, with a worldwide release on Prime Video to follow shortly after.
This project marks IAJ Media’s first foray into the crime-drama romance genre—an intentional shift from the studio’s previous slate of sci-fi productions.
Director Clarito Zapanta shared, “Beyond compelling storytelling, the film serves a greater purpose: to raise awareness about the mental and emotional burdens faced by law enforcement officers, as well as the overlooked stories of everyday people caught in circumstances beyond their control. We aim to provoke meaningful dialogue while delivering a film with strong market potential.”
Following its festival run, IAJ Media is already developing a feature-length adaptation of Love & Other Crimes, with Newman’s completed screenplay expanding on the film’s world and themes.