Who are the main stars in 'Basic'?

The film stars Ashley Park as Gloria, Taylor John Smith as Nick, and Leighton Meester as Kaylinn, Nick's ex-girlfriend.

When was the 'Basic' short film released?

The award-winning 'Basic' short film that the new movie is based on was released in 2020 and was a SXSW official selection.

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Breakup Spiral Leads to Shocking Reveal in 'Basic' Film

Q: What is the 'Basic' film about?

The 'Basic' film follows Gloria and Nick, a couple going through a painful breakup, as Gloria spirals through Nick's past dating history and discovers his most 'basic' ex-girlfriend Kaylinn.

16 Oct, 2025

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Summary

Award-winning 2020 short film 'Basic' adapted into new movie
Follows Gloria and Nick's painful breakup and her discovery of his ex Kaylinn
Stellar cast includes Ashley Park, Leighton Meester, and Taylor John Smith

Breakup Spiral Leads to Shocking Reveal in 'Basic' Film

In October 2025, the new film 'Basic' is set to premiere, based on director Chelsea Devantez's award-winning 2020 short film of the same name. The short film was a SXSW official selection and won Best Comedy at the HollyShorts Film Festival.

The feature-length 'Basic' follows Gloria (played by Ashley Park) and Nick (Taylor John Smith), a couple going through a painful breakup. As Gloria spirals through Nick's past dating history, she untangles his web of ex-girlfriends until she discovers the reason for all their issues: Kaylinn (Leighton Meester), the hottest and most 'basic' ex-girlfriend to ever exist. Kaylinn not only took Gloria's boyfriend, but is about to take her entire story from her as well.