Bella Zoe Martinez and Sue Ann Pien: Rewriting the Script

Short film Once More, Like Rain Man, written by and staring autistic actress Bella Zoe Martinez and directed by Sue Ann Pien, reflects the real challenges of autism representation within the entertainment industry. Showcasing a main character with more than one dimension to her, Once More, Like Rain Man aims to take down stereotypes about individuals with autism. Both Martinez and Pien take it a step further, showing their dedication to empowering others through relationships with non-profit organizations like Epic Players LA and Zeno Mountain Farms. To learn more about Bella Zoe Martinez, Sue Ann Pien, and their new short film, Once More, Like Rain Man, read on.

RFK Jr.’s Plan to “Make America Healthy Again”

Known anti-vaccine advocate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was appointed lead of the Department of Health and Human Services by President Donald Trump. With a long history of publicly making false medical claims, including linking the cause of autism to vaccines, Kennedy now holds the power to impose his medical beliefs on the whole of America through the United States’ top health agency with his “Make America Healthy Again” campaign.

Luke Speakman on Acting and Making a Difference

Weapon’s star Luke Speakman has been acting since he was just 5 years old. Now he’s sharing the screen alongside big names like Josh Brolin, Alden Ehrenreich, and Julia Garner. Beyond acting, Speakman has a passion for helping others. Donating the custom designed shoes he wore to the premiere of the Weapons movie to the Make-A-Wish Foundation and raising money for the non-profit organization Two Thumbs Up are just two small pieces of evidence of his big heart. To learn more about Luke Speakman and his time on set for Weapons, read on.

Louis Henry Mitchell - Creativity is for Everyone

Everyone is an artist. Author of Qreative Evolution, Louis Henry Mitchell, explains how this is a truth throughout his new book and teaches others how to find their creativity and embrace it. As author of a book made for all and creative director of character design at Sesame Workshop for Sesame Street where he created the first ever Muppet on the autism spectrum, Mitchell brings inclusivity to the forefront of his work. With a podcast for all creative disciplines that teaches others how to be an artists coming soon, Mitchell is bringing us even more to look forward to and learn from. To discover more about Louis Henry Mitchell and his new book, read on.

Editor's Pick, Art, zIssue 57.2Eva Elisa WellsJuly 2, 2025Autism, creativity, creative, Creative, book, newbook, children, self-help, Artists, artistComment

COVER - Sue Ann Pien - Seeing Through The Veil

Sue Ann Pien has not only taken Hollywood by storm but has also used her platform to raise awareness and advocate for a greater understanding of autism and LGBTQ rights. From receiving awards and nominations for her mesmerizing performance in the groundbreaking series “As We See It” to directing “Down By the Water” by The Secret Things, she continuously demonstrates her ability to transcend the boundaries of storytelling. Beyond the screen, Sue Ann Pien has actively partnered with various organizations, directing the spotlight toward crucial topics such as sexual assault and environmental concerns. To learn more about this dazzling actress, continue reading.

Editor's Pick, Cover, Editorials, zIssue 52, Most PopularChelsea ChanOctober 6, 2023LGBTQ Support, LGBTQ rights, LGBTQ+, acting, rights, strike, television, Director, AutismComment

Boo Bitch! You will be hearing more about Alyssa Jirrels

From a commercial to your screens, Boo Bitch! Alyssa Jirrels is playing an unexpected mother in the Netflix comedy series, but you will see and hear much more of her. She is now filming to play the lead character, Ellen Gallagher, in the new Paramount+ Fatal Attraction series alongside Lizzy Caplan, Joshua Jackson, and Amanda Pete, to name a few in the drama-thriller series. Alyssa has been involved in bringing awareness to Autism, participating in "As We See It," and since her role in the short "Under the Lights," she has been a strong advocate for bringing awareness to Epilepsy. Please keep reading to know more about her career and projects.

Discussing Inclusivity and Disability Representation With Tal Anderson

Tal Anderson is an actor and director based in Los Angeles, CA. Big into storytelling from a young age, Anderson started officially acting right before high school. You may recognize her from the Netflix series “Atypical” as ‘Sid,’ a role that was written specifically for her. Anderson describes going into the casting call for a small three-line role in Episode 2 of Season 3, but ending up getting a call for Sid after the show-runner saw her audition. Anderson also has a leading role in the national campaign for Delivering Jobs, which is in partnership with Best Buddies and Special Olympics promoting jobs for disabled people. As an autistic actor, Anderson works with organizations the work to promote inclusivity and disability representation. She is an official ambassador for Awareness Ties, a contributor to Neuroclastic, and a speaker with The Inspire Project. She also enjoys making films for the annual Disability Film Challenge. Read on to learn more about Anderson’s important work towards inclusivity and representation!