The Modern Woman's Guide to Pastry-Making (2022)

Living together in an idyllic and isolated cabin in the woods, two women, Francis and Mathilde, spend an afternoon together baking scones. Through the inner monologue of Francis, we begin to learn more about their outwardly tender relationship. The women originally arrived at the cabin with the hopes of growing closer to one another, and to create space from hinted to be past traumas. Having lived there for a while now, Francis is content staying like this-- she is content in the bubble that they've made with one another. Mathilde, however, is beginning to wonder if this is the most healthy choice. She was able to use the time and space from the outside world to rebuild herself, where Francis still feels vulnerable and anxious at the thought of confronting the outside world. While Mathilde's love for Francis keeps her in the cabin, afraid to leave her alone, Francis grows more worried-- she knows she's holding her back, but can't bring herself to take that step away along with her partner. Instead of helping one another in their emotional healing, the pair are now in a limbo, continuing with well-intentioned but toxic behaviors. "The Modern Woman's Guide to Pastry-Making" is just a moment in time before an undetermined turning point relationship. Emphasizing not only the importance of sapphic love and connections, it additionally touches upon the romanticization of codependency and the nuances of healing. It's a story about intimacy and love, and dealing with the problems that can persist despite that.