Courage at HollyShorts: A Dream Screening at the Chinese Theatre

Screening Courage at the legendary TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood was nothing short of a dream come true. HollyShorts Film Festival has long stood as a beacon for independent filmmakers, and to be included—especially in this Oscar-qualifying festival—was one of the greatest honors of my career so far.

The experience itself was unforgettable. It was the best screen I’ve seen the film on yet—the sound, the projection, and the energy in the room all came together in a way that gave me chills. Even more meaningful was the fact that we sold out the theater. As a local, I was able to share the film with friends, family, and so many supporters who helped bring this project to life through our crowdfunding campaign.

When the credits rolled, the crowd erupted in cheers and applause. The energy in the theater was electric. Hearing that roar from my community—people who believed in this project from the very beginning—gave me goosebumps. It felt like a celebration not only of the film but of the people and stories that inspired it.

HollyShorts was a true milestone. To stand in such a historic theater and share Courage with the world reminded me why I began this journey in the first place. It was always about honoring my community, celebrating our stories, and having the courage to share them.