Tuesday, Sept. 24
Claire Ayoub, a respected writer-director, is set to launch the innovative “Empire Waist” Confidence Curriculum. The announcement coincides with the premiere of her latest coming-of-age dramedy also titled “Empire Waist.” The Confidence Curriculum, which will be freely accessible online, will present adolescents and adults with a valuable resource for grappling with issues related to body image and self-esteem inspired by the movie.
Ayoub expressed that the “Empire Waist” has already started eliciting feelings of affiliation and companionship among people, and the introduction of the Confidence Curriculum promises to promote and progress these discourses. According to Ayoub, the curriculum is an extension of the film’s essence, aspiring to offer support to individuals on their paths to self-acceptance.
The official summary of “Empire Waist” interprets the film as a tale revolving around Lenore Miller (played by Mia Kaplan). Lenore is an overweight teenager who grapples with her self-esteem while her flair for fashion is recognized by her self-assured, plus-sized classmate (played by Jemima Yevu). This acknowledgment forces Lenore into the spotlight where she encounters a blend of bullies and allies. Rainn Wilson portrays Lenore’s father Mark, her biggest supporter. Nevertheless, her self-doubts, combined with the anxieties of her image-conscious mother (played by Missi Pyle), inhibit Lenore from sporting her own creations.
Aiming to be more than just a film, the Confidence Curriculum’s online program is due to be launched on the “Empire Waist” website on Sept. 27, the same day the film makes its nationwide premiere in the U.S. and Canada.
Sony Music Vision Announces Rocío Dúrcal Biopic
Nearly two decades following her death, the illustrious life of the globally acclaimed Spanish singer and actor Rocío Dúrcal will be retold through the lens of Sony Music Vision’s newly announced biopic. This venture is set to be a collaborative effort with Sony Music Mexico and Dean Altit of Altit Media Group.
“The movie will illuminate Rocío Dúrcal’s profound cultural impact, celebrate her illustrious career, and acquaint the world with Sony Music Vision’s new division in México,” commented Roberto López, President of Sony Music Mexico.
Shaila Dúrcal and Carmen Morales, daughters of the late artist, expressed their sentiments, “It’s an immense honor to see our mother’s story being commemorated on the big screen. The biopic will serve as an enduring testament to her contributions to the arts, and we hope it will inspire new generations to discover her incredible talent and passion.”
Over her remarkable career, Rocio Dúrcal was awarded a Latin Grammy in 2005, received nominations for three Grammy Awards, and three Latin Grammy Awards, and appeared in over 20 films, apart from recording more than 20 albums.
Emmett Preciado Secured as Lead Role in LGBTQ Short Film ‘Affirmation’
Emmett Preciado, known for his role in “Good Trouble,” will feature as the lead in the forthcoming short film “Affirmation.” The film, currently in its pre-production phase, is due to be penned and directed by Christopher Vallario and produced by Tony Zosherafatain of “Trans in Trumpland” fame.
The narrative of the short film will present an intimate first-date experience between a trans man Xavier (played by Preciado) and Sebastien, his cisgender romantic interest. The casual coffee date progresses into a serene romantic discourse, fostering a deep emotional connection.
“It’s rewarding to showcase the joys of trans masculine embodiment and gender euphoria. ‘Affirmation’ moves beyond stereotypes, embraces self-love, and captures the exhilaration of developing a rare romantic connection as a trans man,” revealed Vallario in a press release.
Preciado, who rose to fame through his YouTube and TikTok channels documenting his gender transition and by his appearance in an episode of “The Good Doctor” as a transgender man expecting a baby, highlighted the pressing need for more narratives about transgender happiness and validation.
“We have a responsibility to share stories of euphoria and validation from the perspective of trans masculine individuals like myself. Being part of this film and playing a character who echoes my personal experiences of gender euphoria is incredibly exciting for me,” said Preciado.
“Affirmation” is scheduled to be in production by 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is “Empire Waist” about?
“Empire Waist” is a coming-of-age dramedy about an overweight teen with a talent for fashion and her journey through self-acceptance and self-esteem.
Q. What is the Empire Waist Confidence Curriculum?
The Empire Waist Confidence Curriculum is an online program that is designed to be a resource on body image and self-confidence for adolescents and adults. The program will launch on the same day as the premiere of “Empire Waist.”
Q. What is the upcoming Sony Music Vision project about?
Sony Music Vision is working on a biopic about the renowned Spanish singer and actor Rocío Dúrcal. The life story of Dúrcal will be told nearly two decades after her death.
Q. What is the short film “Affirmation” about?
“Affirmation” centers on an intimate first date between a trans man named Xavier and his cisgender love interest, Sebastien. It progresses into a deep romantic conversation forming a deep emotional connection. The short film aims to showcase the joys of trans masculine embodiment and gender euphoria.
Credit: variety.com
