November 2, 2024
LXVII — Ashley Eakin
Ashley Eakin is a disabled writer and director based in LA.

Below are Ashley’s selects for influential works:

Movies
I Origins by Mike Cahill
2014

I think Mike Cahill is such an underrated director. His knack for blending grounded sci-fi with emotionally complex characters is *chef’s kiss* perfection.

Movies
The Rider by Chloé Zhao
2017

As a disabled filmmaker, I am so inspired and grateful that Chloe Zhao has shown us a path to authentic casting that proves it only enhances the story.

Documentary
Crip Camp by James Lebrecht & Nicole Newnham
2020

Jim LeBrecht is an icon and this movie made me so proud to be a part of the disability community. It’s also very funny.

Music Video
‘Easier’ Mansionair by Matthew Thorne
2016

A lot of my work has been influenced by dance and I’ve incorporated it into a few projects. I love it because it’s a medium that can reveal so much more than words and speak to the depths of human emotion.

Campaign
‘The Little Drone’ Elkjøp by Rune Milton
2019

A stunning commercial that feels like an entire feature film. The visuals, the song, the moving relationship. Truly epic.

Short Film
Spider by Nash Edgerton
2007

Nash Edgerton’s short film is something I show to every single new filmmaker. The ability to shock your audience over and over again is a really valuable skill as a storyteller.

Campaign
‘We The 15’ Paralympics by Sam Pilling
2021

I admire this spot’s bold, edgy approach that disrupts the narrative for disabled people. It reminds the audience that we are human, just like everyone else!

PEOPLE IN THIS ARTICLE
Mike Cahill
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James Lebrecht
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Nicole Newnham
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Matthew Thorne
Nash Edgerton
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