METTLE
“METTLE” follows the deeply personal journey of Liana Mutia, a top-ranked judoka, to her second Paralympic games. Liana immigrated to the United States from the Philippines when she was two. Her parents were destined to achieve the “American Dream” for themselves and their daughters. But at the age of 15, Liana’s life changed forever when she was diagnosed with ischemic optic neuropathy. Over five years, Liana gradually but completely lost her vision, forcing her to relearn how to function as a person and as an athlete. A two-time Pan American champion, Parapan American Games silver medalist, and two-time World bronze medalist, Liana now has her sights set on the Paris Paralympics. “METTLE” traces the months leading up to the 2024 games, documenting Liana’s journey through what could potentially be her last Paralympic cycle.
Screens live on FRIDAY, Dec. 6
Q&A with filmmakers to follow
Filmmakers
Chelsea Casabona
Surabhi Sundaram
Chelsea Casabona is a documentary filmmaker and journalist based in New York City. Inspired by her childhood career in judo and stories from her Cuban and Puerto Rican grandparents, Chelsea enjoys making films that highlight the voices of women, immigrants, and athletes.
Email: crc2217@columbia.edu
Surabhi Sundaram is a multimedia journalist and documentary filmmaker from India. Her work focuses on highlighting communities that are often marginalized or remain underrepresented. With experience across both print and digital platforms, Surabhi's passion for storytelling led her to Columbia Journalism School, where she directed her debut film, “METTLE.”
Email: ss6935@columbia.edu
