1:30min
Optometrists aren’t just making a difference in the practice room – they’re making waves in cinemas too.
MY EYES, a new Australian feature film written, acted and produced by optometrist and OA member Tsu Shan Chambers, brings optometry front and centre in a moving story about disability, eye health and resilience.
Tsu Shan’s film follows an optometrist named Alana as she faces every mother’s nightmare when she discovers her daughter has a rare inherited eye disease. The story was inspired from Tsu Shan’s experience volunteering with vision impaired judo athletes at the Sydney Paralympic Games.
With MY EYES, Tsu Shan aims to shed light on the power of early detection and accessible interventions. The film is more than just a compelling drama – it’s a rallying cry for eye health, and a powerful example of how optometrists can lead in public education and social awareness.
‘Sometimes it can be hard to capture public attention or break down misconceptions,’ Tsu Shan says. ‘My hope is that by weaving these real challenges into a heartfelt narrative, MY EYES can spark broader conversations on eye health and inspire more people to seek regular care.’
The film also brings visibility to disability in a way rarely seen on Australian screens, thanks in large part to cast member Eduardo Ávila Sánchez, a Paralympian Judo champion living with vision impairment. His on-screen portrayal underscores the importance of inclusivity, reminding audiences – and especially those in the vision-care community – that life with a disability is not solely about obstacles, but also triumphs and untapped potential.
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‘Eduardo shows us that disability doesn’t define you,’ notes Tsu Shan. ‘He brings authenticity and hope to the film, and I believe it will resonate profoundly with anyone who has worked with or supported people experiencing vision loss.’
Optometry Australia is proud to support Tsu Shan as she brings the story to life – as a passionate advocate for our profession. Now, she’s calling on fellow optometrists to spread the word.
More than a heartfelt story, MY EYES is designed to be a catalyst for grassroots advocacy and education. The film’s release through FanForce offers a unique rollout strategy, enabling eye care, health workers and pro-inclusion groups anywhere in the world to host community screenings.
‘I want eye care professionals and inclusion activists to feel empowered to use MY EYES as a conversation starter,’ Tsu Shan explains. ‘It’s an opportunity for practitioners to gather colleagues, patients and the wider public to talk about prevention, early detection, the broader social dimension of vision health and inclusion.’
Ultimately, Tsu Shan hopes MY EYES will not only touch hearts but also promote open dialogue and real-world impact. ‘Sometimes eye care can seem like a technical or niche topic, and that creates barriers to engagement. This film sets out to change that – for our industry and the people we serve,’ she says.
Tickets and more details can be found here.