How I Learned to Die

directed by Manya Glassman

How I Learned to Die is a coming-of-age comedy drama seen through the eyes of Iris, a 16-year-old girl. The film opens with Iris discovering she must undergo a high-risk surgery with a 60% chance of dying. Iris dives into a four-day whirlwind of “firsts”: first kiss, first drunken night out, first driving fast and free. But the moments she doesn’t plan for—losing a pet, seeing her parents age with fears and flaws—are what truly shake her. In her candid, offbeat narration to the audience, Iris reflects on the messy beauty of life with refreshing humor and honesty. With every reckless adventure, she stumbles into truths that cut deeper than her bucket list ever could. Brave and overflowing with soul, Iris’s journey isn’t about escape or survival; it’s about the courage to face life with eyes wide open.