Cyber crime dramedy stars Tisha Campbell and Melissa De Sousa as tech-challenged heroes taking down a trafficking ring while embracing sisterhood and cultural pride.

Tisha Campbell returns to the big screen in a dynamic pairing with Melissa De Sousa in Operation: Aunties, a cyber crime dramedy that follows two fierce and determined women as they work together to dismantle a sophisticated dark web trafficking ring. The film offers a thrilling mix of suspense, sharp humor, and heartfelt moments, all set within the high-stakes, often invisible world of cybercrime. As the story unfolds, audiences are taken on a journey that highlights not just the technical aspects of digital warfare, but also the strength of female friendship and resilience.

The production process was just as intense as the film’s plot. According to Campbell, the entire movie was shot in a tight 10-day window, requiring the cast and crew to work quickly and efficiently under pressure. De Sousa faced additional challenges after joining the project late in the process. She admitted to feeling overwhelmed by the volume of highly technical dialogue she had to learn in a short amount of time. In an effort to memorize her lines, she resorted to creative methods—going so far as to tape her lines in unexpected places, including the back of Campbell’s head. Despite the demanding circumstances, both actresses supported each other throughout the production. Campbell acknowledged that the technical jargon posed a challenge for them both, saying, “There’s a lot of tech verbiage and that’s not either one of our forte. But she got it, finally.”

In addition to its action-packed storyline and fast-paced production, the film thoughtfully explores cultural identity and evolving language, particularly through the term “auntie.” Traditionally used by younger members of the African American community to refer to older women who are not necessarily related by blood, the word “auntie” has gone through a transformation over the years. Once considered slightly patronizing or ageist, it is now embraced as a term of endearment and respect. De Sousa reflected on this shift in meaning, noting, “It evolved. Now, it feels like a sign of respect.” This theme is deeply embedded in the film, as both Campbell and De Sousa portray women who embody wisdom, strength, and leadership—traits often associated with the revered “auntie” figure in Black culture.

Operation: Aunties weaves together intelligence, comedy, and emotional depth to tell a story that feels timely and relevant. It not only entertains but also speaks to broader themes of empowerment, sisterhood, and cultural pride. Now available for streaming on ALLBLK, a platform celebrated for spotlighting Black creators and diverse storytelling, the film stands as a bold and refreshing addition to the growing genre of smart, character-driven thrillers.