'Quad Life' is a short documentary that challenges stereotypes around disability and creativity while advocating for the urgent need for accessibility across all industries, especially in the creative sector.
Produced by the inclusive motion design studio BIEN and the Emmy-award winning production company Only Today, the film follows David Jeffers, a quadriplegic sound designer, on his journey of survival, reinvention, and artistic perseverance. David Jeffers himself shares, “For a long time, I wasn’t sure what my future looked like. But 'Quad Life' is about finding purpose and new ways to create. It’s about showing people that life doesn’t stop after tragedy. Passion and creativity don’t have limits.”
David’s story, initially centred on the daily frustrations of wheelchair users, evolves into a powerful exploration of human resilience and the struggles disabled creatives face. His involvement in the film as a sound designer and music editor ensures that 'Quad Life' is not just a documentary but a sonic signature, reflecting his journey as a disabled individual and a creative force.
The film’s core message is clear: Disability is not an end; it’s a new beginning. 'Quad Life' shows how art can break boundaries and challenge the status quo. Joyce Tsang, the film’s director, reflects, "'Quad Life' is about resilience and reinvention. After a life-altering accident, David didn’t just survive—he chose to transform. He reimagined his work, redefined his purpose, and found new meaning. While his path is deeply personal, the spirit of his journey speaks to something more: the belief that even in the face of overwhelming challenges, anything is possible."
Currently featured in festivals celebrating disability rights and Black stories, 'Quad Life' aims to raise awareness of the need for greater inclusion and accessibility for disabled creatives. BIEN’s co-founder Hung Le states, “We hope David’s story inspires us to think more deeply about access and opportunity in the creative industry. Marginalized voices broaden the scope of creativity by introducing perspectives that change the status quo.”
If you believe in the power of community, family, and the importance of accessibility, 'Quad Life' is a must-watch. The inspiring film tells David's story whilst serving as a proof point for how disabled creatives can enrich the cultural narrative with new ideas and insights that might otherwise remain unheard.