Film Rise and Shine Premieres in Kansas City
The new motion picture features local Kansas City filming locations.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Special Needs
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The motion picture Rise and Shine, based on the novel Remembering Terri, is now playing in theaters. The film features a lead character named Terri who has cerebral palsy.
Why it matters
The production highlights local landmarks through its narrative and serves as a regional milestone for film production. Featuring characters with disabilities, the movie brings inclusive storytelling to the screen.
The movie Rise and Shine was produced entirely in Kansas City and features the Independence Center as a filming location. It is currently available for viewing in AMC Theaters.
The players
Analesa Fisher
Analesa Fisher is an actor who portrays the character Amanda in the motion picture.
The details
The film follows the story of Terri, a character living with cerebral palsy, and includes actor Analesa Fisher in the role of Amanda. The production utilized local sites throughout Kansas City to ground the story.
Timeline
October 25, 2026: The film is currently playing in theaters.
Culture Shift
The film follows a traditional theatrical rollout and will eventually join the Angel streaming service library. This strategy reflects current shifts in how independent productions balance exclusive cinema experiences with broader digital accessibility.
Residents can view the production at local AMC Theaters as it completes its current run. The inclusion of the Independence Center offers viewers a familiar backdrop while they engage with the film's narrative.
The takeaway
Inclusive cinema can provide greater visibility for diverse experiences by centering narratives on characters like Terri. Supporting locally produced films encourages regional arts and helps maintain the viability of neighborhood theaters.
Further reading
Learn more about local accessibility initiatives at Special Needs.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KMBC 9.
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