Not My Family: The Monique Smith Story (2025)

Not My Family: The Monique Smith Story is a gripping drama film released in 2025. Directed by Tailiah Breon and written by Sylvia L. Jones, the film follows the harrowing yet courageous journey of Monique Smith, a young woman who spends her early life enduring unimaginable abuse within a family she later discovers she has no biological connection to.

The film paints a heart-wrenching portrait of survival, identity, and the relentless search for truth. As Monique, portrayed by Yaya DaCosta, battles years of mistreatment and emotional torment, she uncovers the shocking reality that she was never related to the people who raised her. This discovery sends her on a life-long mission to trace her real origins and reclaim her true identity.

Alongside DaCosta’s stirring lead performance, the film features a talented supporting cast including Tiffany Black as Elizabeth, Sir Brodie as Nelson, and Lauren Buglioli as Trinity. The story is further brought to life by Nicci T. Carr, Khary Colbert, Carter J. Cooper, and Djassi DaCosta Johnson, whose portrayals add depth and authenticity to this deeply personal narrative.

At its core, Not My Family: The Monique Smith Story highlights themes of resilience, the need for self-discovery, and the lasting impact of trauma. It is a compelling reflection on how identity can be shaped and shattered by those we trust, and how healing often begins with uncovering the past.

Film Details

Main Cast