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Claire Ayoub introduces ‘Empire Waist’ Confidence Curriculum alongside film premiere
A new initiative for self-acceptance and body positivity
On Tuesday, September 24, writer-director Claire Ayoub will unveil the “Empire Waist” Confidence Curriculum in conjunction with the premiere of her coming-of-age dramedy, Empire Waist. This free online program aims to address body image and self-confidence issues, providing a valuable resource for both adolescents and adults to explore the themes raised by the film.
A legacy of empowerment
“Empire Waist already makes so many people feel seen and less alone, and the ‘Empire Waist’ Confidence Curriculum is the vetted next step to keep those conversations going,” Ayoub shared. “It’s truly the legacy of the film, designed to support audiences in their own journeys of self-acceptance for years to come.”
Plot and characters
The film follows Lenore Miller (Mia Kaplan), an overweight, insecure teen whose talent for fashion is discovered by her confident, plus-sized classmate (Jemima Yevu). This newfound recognition thrusts Lenore into the spotlight, exposing her to both bullies and new friends. Her father, Mark (Rainn Wilson), is her biggest supporter, but the fears of her image-conscious mother (Missi Pyle) and Lenore’s own insecurities create significant hurdles.
Curriculum launch date
The Confidence Curriculum will be accessible on the “Empire Waist” website starting September 27, coinciding with the film’s nationwide premiere in the U.S. and Canada.
Emmett Preciado to star in LGBTQ short film ‘Affirmation’
A new narrative on trans masculine joy
Emmett Preciado, known for his role in “Good Trouble,” is set to star in the upcoming short film “Affirmation.” Currently in pre-production, the film will be written and directed by Christopher Vallario and produced by Tony Zosherafatain, who previously worked on “Trans in Trumpland.”
Plot and setting
The short film centers on an intimate first date between a trans man named Xavier (Preciado) and his cisgender love interest, Sebastien. What begins as a casual coffee date evolves into a profound romantic conversation, forming a deep emotional connection. Set against the backdrop of New York City, the production has garnered support from the NYC LGBT Center.
Director’s vision
Vallario expressed his motivation behind the script, stating, “Affirmation is a testament to the joys of trans masculine embodiment and gender euphoria, which is oftentimes rarely seen in transgender narratives. This short moves away from stereotypes and toward self-love. Through Xavier’s eyes, viewers get to experience a rare romantic connection and what it’s like to feel love as a trans man.”
Preciado’s journey
Before gaining attention for his role in an episode of “The Good Doctor” as a pregnant trans man, Preciado became known through his YouTube and TikTok channels, where he documented his gender transition. “We need to see more stories about the joy of being trans and the experiences that affirm us,” Preciado said. “A moment that may seem ordinary to some can be a moment of complete validation for a trans masculine man like myself. I am so excited to be able to play a character who shares the same kind of gender euphoria, with the world.”
Production timeline
The film is slated to go into production in 2025.
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