New Film Rise and Shine Features Cerebral Palsy Lead
The motion picture is now playing in Kansas City theaters, offering a narrative focused on a character with cerebral palsy.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Special Needs
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The motion picture Rise and Shine, featuring a lead character living with cerebral palsy, has premiered in theaters. The film was produced entirely in Kansas City and includes footage shot at the Independence Center.
Why it matters
Representation of individuals with disabilities in media can influence public perception and understanding of living with cerebral palsy. This film adapts the novel Remembering Terri for a broader audience.
There is no clinical or scientific evidence associated with this production. The film is a work of fiction based on the novel Remembering Terri, and the extent of its portrayal of cerebral palsy is limited to the film's narrative.
The players
Analesa Fisher
An actor who portrays the character Amanda in the motion picture Rise and Shine.
The details
The production filmed the movie entirely in Kansas City, utilizing local settings to bring the story to life. The plot centers on a lead character named Terri who lives with cerebral palsy, while actor Analesa Fisher portrays the character Amanda. The film is based on the novel Remembering Terri and is currently being shown at AMC Theaters.
Timeline
The film is currently playing in theaters as of October 25, 2026.
Health Landscape
The production of films featuring characters with disabilities reflects an ongoing shift in narrative representation across the entertainment industry. This project follows a pattern of adapting literature to screen to explore the lived experience of health conditions.
While this film is a creative work, discussions about disability representation can be a starting point for families to talk about cerebral palsy with their healthcare providers. Readers interested in the film's portrayal can view it at local AMC Theaters.
The takeaway
Rise and Shine brings a story about living with cerebral palsy to the big screen. Consider researching cerebral palsy through verified resources like the CDC or a local medical center if the film prompts questions about the condition.
Further reading
Learn more about local advocacy and resources in the Special Needs section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KMBC 9.
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