A young woman in a bright pink outfit and an older man in a patterned yellow shirt react with alarm in a retro-styled living room, in a scene from Search Party: Where’s Paw Paw?

Victoria Monai Richards on Making ‘Search Party: Where’s Paw Paw?’ at 22

November 9, 2026 Victoria Wade

What happens when Paw Paw goes missing and the family search party turns into absolute chaos?

In Search Party: Where’s Paw Paw?, three best friends and a wild auntie embark on an insane and unforgettable adventure filled with laughs, family love and unexpected twists. This early 2000s inspired comedy hits theaters November 13!

I had the opportunity to speak with Victoria Monai Richards, who directed, co-wrote and stars in the film, about bringing this project to life at just 22! We talked about creating the film alongside her mother, navigating the challenges of balancing family and professional relationships, working with comedic legends Tichina Arnold and Tommy Davidson, and what this journey means to her as a Black female creative in filmmaking.

Victoria also shares what she hopes her journey inspires in others who are looking to break into the entertainment industry and create opportunities of their own.