About this Short Film
More than a Fairytale (CPL Hi Studios, Australia, 2025) invites viewers into an intimate consideration of art, performance and identity among young adults with Down syndrome and other intellectual and cognitive processing disabilities. Gentle and respectful in its approach, the film highlights individual creativity and the challenges and joys of performing. It sits comfortably within the Focus on Ability International Short Film Festival, where stories of skill, resilience and everyday achievement are celebrated. Presented by CPL Hi Studios, this short offers a bright, humane portrait that broadens how we think about ability and artistic expression. A thoughtful addition to this year’s programme.
Film Details
Film Transcript
Shel didn't just grow up; she grew into her imagination. While other kids played, Shelley performed. Every hallway became a runway, every garden a stage. One moment she was a royal princess, the next a villain plotting her grand scheme. Costumes weren't just clothes; they were characters. Ah yes, the drama.
She watched princess films on repeat, and something about those stories, the gowns, the songs, the magic lit a fire in her. From that moment on she didn't just dream; she created sketches, scenes, entire worlds. She didn't wait for permission — she made her own stage. And that spark never left.
Today, Shelly is many things: a singer on Mondays, an actress and director on Wednesdays, a dreamer always. She writes stories, designs costumes and helps others bring their visions to life. She's not just in front of the camera; she's behind it too, directing, creating, believing.
In 2023, Shelley starred in a film that won an award — yes, an actual shiny "hold it in your hands" award. But the biggest win was having people believe in her and maybe believing in herself.
Because when Shel walks into a room, she brings the spotlight with her. She loves music. She loves movies. She loves telling stories — big ones, loud ones, heartfelt ones. And every time you think you've seen the best of her, she surprises you.
This is Shel Louise Finn, a woman with Down syndrome, a woman with dreams, talent and fire. And this is more than just a fairy tale.
Filmmaker
CPL Hi Studios is the filmmaker behind this entry. See every Focus on Ability entry from CPL Hi Studios.
Really really enjoyed this. Joyous and a real fairytale come true. I saw the Westlife album which I have been listening to lately so good Keep up the magical stories of your life and times - with love from a fellow competitor
Loved your joyful fun commitment to the arts. A true talent.