[Branded Documentary - Invisalign] After missing bronze by 1/100th of a second at the 2016 Paralympic games, Austin-based swimmer Lizzi Smith shares an intimate story of how changing her self-perception didn’t just bring her back to the pool - it’s bringing hope to the next generation.
Watch the full film here: https://vimeo.com/995999203
Awards
— Gold Clio: Diversity in Storytelling
— Gold Clio: Branded Content - Film
— Silver Clio: Athlete Storytelling
— Shortlisted Clio: Film 5min and Over, Directing
— Austin Film Festival 2024
Press
— Featured on No Film School
— Featured on Beyond the Short
Featuring: Lizzi Smith
Para Swimmer, 3x Paralympian
Client: Invisalign
Executive Producers: Karl Stelter, Jay Snyder, Joe Simon
Production Company: Journeymen Studios
Production
Director: Karl Stelter
Producers: Karl Stelter, Jay Snyder
Cinematography: Joe Simon
1st AC: Kelly Wourms
2nd AC: Kyle Decker
Gaffer: Daniel Leonard
Production Sound: Taylor Juarez
Production Assistant: Tony Stolfa
Post-Production
Editor: Karl Stelter
Music: Christy Carew Marshall
Sound Design: Colton Jackson
Color: Arianna Shining Star
VFX: Danny Shepherd
Directors Statement
Every four years the world comes together to cheer for the Olympic and Paralympic games. Rooting for something special to happen. For someone to defy the odds, to give us a glimpse of the human spirit. To collectively dream again. However it’s not the games themselves that are exciting - it’s who’s in them.
I love Lizzi’s story because it embodies both grit, humanity, and vision. She’s not waiting until she wins gold to give back - she’s making a difference now, coaching young kids with and without disabilities. She’s showing them what’s possible. She’s taking control of conversations around disability. And while swimming is what she does, it does not define her.
I hope this film gives audiences not only someone to cheer for at Paralympic games, but to recognize the parallels between her story and their own. To find confidence in their own journey and voice, and to be inspired to reach for their best selves.
You are more than what you do.
