CHIFF: Empire Waist

Empire Waist

Australian Premiere

‘What's unique is that this movie isn't about transformation into conventional beauty but rather about accepting your body as it is, loving it, and showing it off.’ – Common Sense Media

A sweet coming-of-age film that tackles harmful misconceptions about body sizes and body types with humour and heart, to celebrate self-expression and the pricelessness of finding a good group of friends who will be your champions.

Lenore is a teen deeply insecure about her weight. Hiding her passion for fashion design, she tries to make herself invisible in her day-to-day life to avoid being bullied by her classmates and image-conscious mother. Lenore’s father Mark is her biggest cheerleader and her best friend Kayla is confident, funny, outgoing, and proud of her plus-sized body. Through their support along with teacher Ms Hall Lenore is encouraged to step outside her comfort zone and embrace her talent.

Co-stars Rainn Wilson (The Office US) as Mark, Lenore’s unconditionally supportive father, plus a diverse cast of young new talent.

Festival Appearances/Awards
Seattle International Film Festival 2024
SCHLiNGEL International Film Festival 2024

Rating

All Ages

Duration

97 min

Country

United States

Language

English

Director

Claire Ayoub