COURAGE is a stirring short film from writer-director Eric Michael Hernandez that explores the power of cultural reclamation, generational legacy, and personal transformation through the lens of Filmmaker Hernandez, as it's based on his own life.  Set against the backdrop of hoop dancing—a vibrant and symbolic art form in the Native American culture. The film follows Mateo Ulibarri, the 2024 Teen World Hoop Dance Champion, as he navigates the pressures of performance and the deeper call to honor his heritage. Through Mateo’s journey, the film weaves in the voices and stories of Indigenous icons including: PJ Vegas, Terry Goedel, Pyet Despain (Potawatomi), winner of Gordon Ramsay’s Next Level Chef, who brings authenticity and advocacy to the film’s message of cultural empowerment. Courage premieres August 14th at the Hollyshorts Film Festival in L.A. in the Indigenous Block, at the TCL CHINESE 6 THEATRE || #6.

TRAILER:  Courage, written and directed by Eric Michael Hernandez, a renowned Native American Hoop Dancer and filmmaker. — Eric Hernandez

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