’Merika

A Filipino nurse living in New Jersey who also works at a nursing home. She is deeply homesick and torn between staying in the U.S. for stability or returning to the Philippines for a simpler life. Mila builds connections with friends in the diaspora while trying to maintain her sense of self, loyalty to family, and professional responsibilities.

Mila's love interest, a newer arrival on the East Coast who has recently moved from Los Angeles. He presents a life of affluence and opportunity, including a car and elegant dates, but his immigration status becomes a point of contention. Mon seeks a path to legal residency through marriage, creating tension between genuine affection and opportunistic motives.

Mila's roommate and fellow overseas Filipino worker who shares in the immigrant experience. Violet helps Mila navigate work and social circles, and she's part of the social circle that includes Mon and Henry. She also appears to drift away from Mila as relationships evolve.

A data encoder and Mila's acquaintance who is protective of Mila and wary of Mon. He observes Mon's actions and notes potential red flags about legitimacy of his status. Henry's proximity to Mila introduces a layer of romantic tension and concern for her safety within the immigrant community.

A retired Filipino musician who migrated to the U.S. before World War II and now lives as a resident in a nursing setting. He embodies the long arc of immigration, reflecting on staying away from home and the reluctance to return. Mila seeks his counsel during moments of doubt and homesickness.

A fellow Filipino immigrant working as a medical technologist who befriends Mila. He hosts gatherings where new relationships form and responsibilities toward friends are shared. Danny represents the supportive social network within the immigrant community.