In Florence, Paris & NYC
Exciting news from the world of independent film—our short documentary, The Making of California Big Hunks, has just taken home awards from three international film festivals: Florence, Paris, and New York City!
This film offers a behind-the-scenes look at the cult classic California Big Hunks, the sizzling 1985 video that continues to captivate audiences four decades later. But what started as a lighthearted dive into the making of an era-defining phenomenon has suddenly become a festival favorite, earning accolades in some of the world’s most prestigious cinematic hubs.
A Global Audience for a Classic Story
Winning in Florence, Paris, and New York City is a dream come true. These cities are known for their deep appreciation of film, art, and music. It’s incredible to see The Making of California Big Hunks resonate with audiences across continents, proving that great stories—and great dance moves—stand the test of time.
The Soundtrack That’s Turning Heads
One of the standout elements of the film is its soundtrack, featuring the music of Candace Love. A creative collaboration between Patty Mooney, a lifelong poet and lyricist, and Candace Love AI, the soundtrack weaves sultry, evocative melodies that have now reached new ears across continents, adding yet another layer of magic to this award-winning film. From the romantic streets of Paris to the bright lights of New York, their music has helped elevate The Making of California Big Hunks to international recognition.
Building on the musical foundation of the original California Big Hunks, Candace Love picks up where composer Richard Jan Plasko left off, infusing the new soundtrack with a fresh yet nostalgic energy. In a seamless blend of past and present, Candace Love incorporates some of Plasko’s signature riffs into her own compositions, paying homage to the 1985 classic while reimagining its grooves for a modern audience. The result is a soundtrack that pulses with the same electrifying spirit, bridging decades of music and film in a way that feels both familiar and entirely new.
“AI is an evolution in how we create, and I see it as a collaborator, not a competitor. It helps bring ideas to life in ways we never imagined before,” says Patty Mooney.
Joy, Sensuality and Self-Expression
“For far too long, a puritanical mindset has kept us ashamed of our own human bodies, creating unnecessary stigmas that serve no one,” says award-winning filmmaker and editor Patty Mooney. “It’s time to embrace the beauty, strength, and diversity of our physical forms without shame or censorship. The Making of California Big Hunks is more than just a behind-the-scenes look at a cult classic—it’s a reminder that joy, sensuality, and self-expression are natural parts of life. We need to move beyond outdated taboos and celebrate the human body as it is—without fear, without guilt, and without judgment.”
As The Making of California Big Hunks continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, it serves as a reminder that self-expression and body positivity are part of a deeper human journey. As the the French Jesuit priest, scientist, and philosopher Teilhard de Chardin once said, “We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience.” This perspective encourages us to embrace our physicality with joy and without shame, recognizing that our bodies are simply vessels for the vibrant, creative spirits within us.
Where to See It
At the moment, The Making of California Big Hunks is exclusively available on the film festival circuit. We are thrilled to share it with audiences at select screenings and look forward to announcing future festival appearances. Stay tuned for updates on where you can catch it next!
A huge thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. The story of California Big Hunks isn’t just about a viral sensation from the ’80s—it’s about creativity, culture, and the enduring impact of independent filmmaking.
Keep dancing, keep dreaming, and enjoy yourself!
Patty Mooney
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