THIS BODY IS A SHELL
ASHLEY EAKIN Director's Note:
Growing up, I avoided mirrors to evade facing my disabled body, which diverged from what I saw in the media. This sense of exclusion from society fueled a profound self-hatred, concealed beneath a facade of confidence. While outwardly perceived as outgoing and well-adjusted, inwardly I struggled deeply. However, with time, maturity, and the recognition of the importance of representation for the next generation, my perspective shifted.
"THIS BODY IS A SHELL" is my cinematic exploration of this journey, created in collaboration with Cinematographer Matt Sakatani Roe. Through a transformative visual narrative, we depict the evolution from fear to radical self-love, showcasing disabled women as powerful, ethereal beings. This film isn't just for my community; it's a reminder of our inherent strength and the wonder of existence itself. We are more than our bodies; we are souls on a remarkable journey.
