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.

Art, Editor's Pick, zIssue 57.5Eva Elisa WellsOctober 15, 2025Autism, #autism, autism, Autistic, autistic, empowerment, Empowerment, #empowerment, empowering, Awareness, awareness, acting, Acting, movie, short film, short films, Short film, Directing, Director, breaking the mold, overcomingComment

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!

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 43Kaylyn WenzelMay 9, 2022Inclusivity, disability, disability representation, actor, director, Netflix, Special olympics, Autism, Autistic, FilmComment