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Close-up of a vintage film projector illuminated by colorful blue and orange lighting.

Best Feature

Meet the nominees for The DARCYS, recognizing artists, storytellers, and advocates advancing authentic disability representation.

The Best Feature Award recognizes feature-length films that advance authentic disability representation through compelling storytelling, creative vision, and meaningful inclusion on and off screen.

Color Book

Two people sit together on a bench, sharing a friendly handshake while looking at a document.

Credits: 

  • Director/Writer/Producer: David Fortune
  • Producers: Autumn Bailey-Ford, Kiah Clingman, Kristen Uno
  • Featured Talent: Jeremiah Daniels

Synopsis: 

Following his wife's recent passing, a widowed father (Lucky) finds himself navigating the challenges of raising his son (Mason), who has Down syndrome. Seeking solace, Lucky and Mason embark on a journey across Metro Atlanta to attend their first baseball game together. Throughout their day-long trip, they encounter Murphy's Law. From car breakdowns to missed trains, the duo faces a series of obstacles that test their relationship with each other. Despite the setbacks, they persevere, determined to reach the game on time. Color Book offers an intimate portrait of a father-son relationship while exploring grief, connection, and the realities of parenthood over the course of a single weekend.

 

Espina

Three people ride in a small boat traveling down a narrow waterway surrounded by trees.

Credits: 

  • Director/Writer/Producer: Daniel Poler
  • Producers: Jorge Abarca, Paulina Mondragón, Gloria Ortega, Ari Tan, Frida Torresblanco
  • Featured Talent: Jonathan Benaim

Synopsis: 

Bitter after losing his job, Venezuelan expat, Jonathan, plans a holiday to Panama before his spinal surgery. Paraplegic and unable to travel far on his own, he recruits a down-on-her-luck actress and a cynical playboy as makeshift aides for the journey from Mexico City. Lavishly funded by donations meant for his “surgery,” this unlikely trio ventures into Panama's wild side, and it's no longer clear if Jonathan chose his destination for diversion or, to avenge a long-held grudge. This irreverent and vibrant film draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of Jonathan, who portrays himself in this tale of self-discovery.

 

Horsegirls

A person stands in a kitchen holding a hobby horse, with countertops and appliances in the background.

Credits: 

  • Director/Writer: Lauren Meyering
  • Writer/Producer: Mackenzie Breeden
  • Producers: Alix Madigan-Yorkin, Michael Sherman
  • Featured Talent: Lillian Carrier, Matthew Schwab

Synopsis: 

Horsegirls is the story of 22-year-old Margarita, a young woman with autism, who discovers the world of hobby-horsing and sets out to prove her independence to her mother, stick horse and all. Encouraged by a supportive coach, her mom and her community, Margarita gains confidence to forge her own path.