Central Coast film named finalist in disability film challenge
Film team included cast and crew from Paso Robles and Atascadero
– A short film created by Central Coast residents has been named one of 15 finalists in the 2025 Easterseals Disability Film Challenge, selected from more than 120 global entries. The film, 20/80, written by and starring Steven Ching, was honored during a red-carpet awards ceremony held at Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City on April 6.
20/80 explores visual impairment and mental health through a personal narrative grounded in the Central Coast. The film was directed by first-time director Bettina Someros-Ching, Steven Ching’s wife, and filmed at locations in Montaña de Oro, Paso Robles, and Atascadero.
Production was completed by a team of local contributors. The crew included assistant director Colette Whipp, supporting actor Dug Baker, editor Jacob Farrall, assistant camera Aaron Anil Akhter, sound recordist Paul Whipp, key production assistant Alyssa Wimberley, script supervisor Megan Farmer, prop masters Jerry and Gayle Newton, and behind-the-scenes photographer Amanda Daniels.
Several team members attended the awards ceremony, including Bettina Someros-Ching, Steven Ching, Dug Baker, Colette Whipp, and director of photography Sean Ayres, representing both 20/80 and the San Luis Obispo community.
“This is a film born from our lived experience and made with deep love and urgency,” Steven said. “To be seen at this level, and to represent the Central Coast community, means everything.”
Participants in the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge were given five days, from April 1 to April 6, to write, shoot, and submit an original short film. The event aims to provide a platform for disabled creatives to share their stories and perspectives. More information is available at disabilityfilmchallenge.com.
