Local filmmakers launch short film for visual impairment, mental health awareness
Most of the cast and crew are from Atascadero and surrounding Central Coast communities
– A new short film titled 20/80 has debuted as part of the 2025 Easterseals Disability Film Challenge. The project was written by and stars Steven Ching, a filmmaker based in Atascadero, who drew from his own experiences with visual impairment and mental health.
Filmed entirely in San Luis Obispo County, 20/80 includes scenes shot at Montaña de Oro in Los Osos, Daniels Wood Land in Paso Robles and The Newtons’ Backyard in Atascadero. Most of the cast and crew are also from Atascadero and surrounding Central Coast communities.
The production team includes director Bettina Someros-Ching, a first-time director; lead actor and writer Steven Ching; supporting actor Dug Baker; assistant director Colette Whipp; editor Jacob Farrall; assistant camera Aaron Anil Ahkter; sound Paul Whipp; key production assistant Alyssa Wimberley; script supervisor Megan Farmer; prop masters Jerry and Gayle Newton; and behind-the-scenes photographer Amanda Daniels. The film also features creative contributions from collaborators outside the region.
The Easterseals Disability Film Challenge runs April 12–21 and includes a worldwide awareness campaign. During the challenge, films are judged by their online engagement. The creators of 20/80 are encouraging viewers to support the film by watching, liking, commenting and sharing it on YouTube and Facebook.
“This story came from a deeply personal place,” said Ching. “I wanted to share the experience of what it feels like to be trapped in your own mind—and to show that even in those darkest moments, there’s still a fight worth having. Being part of the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge gave me the space to tell that story authentically, and I’m honored to share it with our community.”
The film is available online through April 21 at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ai29mLxbQgc.
The Easterseals Disability Film Challenge is an annual event where participants have five days to write, shoot and deliver an original short film. The competition is designed to support filmmakers with disabilities and their allies and to raise awareness about disability representation in media. More information is available at https://disabilityfilmchallenge.com.
Watch the film below:
