Judy Cerda Easterseal Film Challenge 2025

    How has your experience in the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge shaped your understanding of representation in film, and what steps do you take to ensure authentic storytelling? 

 I have enjoyed acting in these films and learned that talent is not related to physical abilities at all.  Our director does amazing things in spite of his disabilities including editing.  I act out my roles with believability and try to appeal to audience's emotions.

   What drew you to your latest film project, and how does it differ from your previous work in terms of themes or creative approach? 

 I enjoy variety in acting but certain roles such as queens really appeal to me and the challenge of coming up with roles quickly keeps the creative juices flowing.

   When working within the thriller/suspense genre, what strategies do you use to craft compelling narratives that engage audiences while highlighting disability representation?  

I recall my nightmares when acting in horror movies and other past horror movies I have seen.  I think acknowledging all characters is the writer's job in this instance.

   Can you share a moment during the filmmaking process when an unexpected challenge led to a creative breakthrough, and how it shaped the final outcome?  

Filming myself can be very challenging so finding a good space with good lighting causes me to seek out new spots to film.

   What do you think makes a film truly resonate with audiences, and how do you incorporate those elements into your work?  

I think showing emotions such as fear is something everyone can relate to as well as being stubborn which is a trait most people have in some way so using those feelings causes audiences to really relate.

   As an advocate for inclusive storytelling, what changes would you like to see in the film industry to better support creators with disabilities?  

Continuing on with competitions like this and getting these challenges on TV would help promote them.

   Looking ahead, what types of stories do you hope to tell, and how do you envision your work continuing to push boundaries in the industry? 

 I think telling stories about interactions with lovers, family members and friends, and any conflicts that arise between them with a positive message of solving the problems would be great.