‘Empire Waist,’ Film Tackling Body Image Issues, Launches Confidence Curriculum Resource for Young People – Film News in Brief

Tuesday, Sept. 24

As a person who has struggled with body image issues and self-confidence for much of my life, I am incredibly moved by Claire Ayoub’s initiative to launch the “Empire Waist” Confidence Curriculum. The film itself resonates deeply with me, as it portrays a character who, like myself, grapples with insecurities and finds solace and strength in self-acceptance.


Claire Ayoub, both writer and director, plans to introduce “Empire Waist” Self-Assurance Program alongside the debut of her teenage drama-comedy “Empire Waist”. This free online resource aims to help adolescents and adults navigate body image and self-confidence issues portrayed in the movie.

Ayoub stated that ‘Empire Waist’ resonates with many people, making them feel understood and less isolated, and the ‘Empire Waist Confidence Curriculum’ is a carefully crafted follow-up to continue these meaningful discussions. He considers it as the film’s enduring legacy, created to empower audiences in their personal journeys of self-acceptance for years to come.

According to the official summary, “Empire Waist” centers around Lenore Miller, played by Mia Kaplan, a shy, self-conscious teenager with a knack for fashion. This skill is recognized by her self-assured and voluptuous classmate Jemima Yevu, thrusting Lenore into the limelight, where she encounters both tormentors and allies. Lenore’s father Mark (Rainn Wilson) encourages her wholeheartedly, but Lenore’s image-conscious mother (Missi Pyle) and her own insecurities hinder her from showcasing her designs publicly.

The “Confidence Curriculum” will debut on the “Empire Waist” website on September 27, which is also the date when “Empire Waist” is set to launch across the United States and Canada.

Emmett Preciado Set to Star in LGBTQ Short ‘Affirmation’

“Good Trouble” alum Emmett Preciado will star in the short film “Affirmation.”

The movie hasn’t started full-scale production yet. It will be penned and helmed by Christopher Vallario, with Tony Zosherafatain handling the reins as producer – both having previously collaborated on “Trans in Trumpland.

The short centers on an intimate first date between a trans man named Xavier (Preciado) and his cisgender love interest, Sebastien. What starts as casual coffee turns into a deep romantic conversation that forms a deep emotional connection. Set in New York City the production of the film has the support of the NYC LGBT Center, a key backdrop.

Vallario explained the inspiration for his script in its press statement: “Affirmation” is an expression of the happiness that comes with being a transmasculine individual and experiencing gender ecstasy, a topic seldom depicted in transgender stories. This short film departs from stereotypes and delves into self-acceptance. Viewers will have the opportunity to witness a unique romantic relationship unfold and understand what it’s like to experience love as a trans man through Xavier’s perspective.

Prior to gaining attention in the episode “The Good Doctor,” Precioado was primarily recognized due to his online presence on YouTube and TikTok, where he shared his journey of undergoing a gender transition.

Preciado expressed a desire for more stories that highlight the joy of being trans and validate our experiences in a press release. For a trans masculine individual like me, even ordinary moments can hold immense validation. I’m thrilled to portray a character who, like myself, experiences similar feelings of gender euphoria, for all to see.

The film is slated to go into production in 2025.

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2024-09-25 00:16