Miss You Can Do It

Miss You Can Do It is an inspiring documentary about a beauty pageant unlike any other. Founded by Abbey Curran, who was crowned Miss Iowa USA in 2008 as the first woman with a disability to compete at the national level, the Miss You Can Do It pageant is a celebration of perseverance, inner beauty, and the unique abilities of young girls with special needs.

The film follows the preparations and performances of the pageant's contestants, aged 5 to 25, as they rehearse their talent acts, put on glamorous gowns and make-up, and practice their stage presence. Through interviews with Abbey, the contestants, and their families, we get a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs these girls face in their daily lives, and how the pageant provides them with a sense of community, confidence, and pride.

One of the most touching aspects of the film is how it portrays the relationships between the contestants and their families. We see how much love, dedication, and sacrifice goes into caring for a child with a disability, and how much joy and fulfillment these girls bring to their families despite the obstacles they face. We also see how the pageant allows parents and siblings to connect with other families going through similar experiences, and how it helps them find hope and support in each other.

But the heart of the film lies in the stories of the individual contestants, each of whom has a unique personality, talent, and journey. We meet girls like Emily, a charming 5-year-old with cerebral palsy who dreams of being a ballerina and impresses the judges with her graceful dance. We see Mariah, a spunky 8-year-old with spina bifida who loves to sing and delivers a powerful rendition of Alicia Keys' "Girl on Fire". And we follow Rachel, a 22-year-old with Down syndrome who has competed in the pageant for years and inspires everyone with her determination to live independently and pursue her dreams of becoming a comedian.

As we watch the pageant unfold, we also witness the bonds that form between the contestants, as they encourage and cheer for each other, share hugs and high-fives, and form a sisterhood that transcends any differences they may have. We see how the pageant empowers these girls to showcase their talents, express their personalities, and be seen for who they are beyond their disabilities. And we see how the pageant inspires the audience, whether they are parents, friends, judges, or strangers, to see these girls as whole individuals deserving of admiration and respect.

Overall, Miss You Can Do It is an uplifting, heartwarming, and thought-provoking film that challenges our assumptions about disability, beauty, and success. It shows us the power of community, compassion, and inclusion in transforming lives and inspiring change. And it celebrates the beauty and potential of every human being, regardless of their abilities or limitations. It is a must-watch for anyone who seeks inspiration, hope, and empathy.