Inspired by true events and led by actor/writer/producer Tsu Shan Chambers, new Australian film My Eyes spotlights the journey of a mother determined to save her daughter’s eyesight—and the broader social impact of living with vision impairment.
The storyline originated from when Chambers volunteered for the judo athletes at the Sydney Paralympic Games.
My Eyes follows Alana (Chambers), an optometrist whose life is upended when her young daughter is diagnosed with a hereditary eye condition.
Desperate for a stem cell donor, she must confront her past—and a life-changing connection to Nico (Eduardo Ávila Sánchez), setting in motion a story of family, cultural identity, and resilience.
The film highlights social change through its authentic depiction of the vision-impaired community
“It is a story I’ve wanted to share for years, and I’m overjoyed to finally bring it to audiences in a way that sparks empathy and positive change,” Chambers said.
“We have so many stories to share and need more opportunities like this to bring them to life”.
Also speaking about the film was Eduardo Ávila Sánchez*, a Paralympic video champion living with vision impairment.
“As someone who understands life with a disability, I hope My Eyes encourages everyone to look past labels and assumptions. This film is about celebrating our abilities, our families, and our determination to make every moment count.”
The film is showing at Hoyts Sydney cinemas at Warringah Mall and Chatswood on June 10-11 before its release across the US.
The film returns to Australia on June 23 at the Chaffey Theatre, Adelaide.
*An interview with Eduardo will be appear in the August issue of Link magazine.
Photo: Dr Phillipa Sharwood, ophthalmologist who consulted on the clinical aspects of the script; Tsu Shan Chambers, writer and producer who played the lead role of Alana; Nia Rush, who played the role of Isabella and Eduardo Ávila Sánchez, who played the role of Nico.