Private Project

My Guardian Angel

Kirina, a vibrant and optimistic elementary school girl, embarks on a new chapter filled with hopes of adventures and lasting connections as she transitions to a new school.  Upon eagerly meeting her teacher and classmates, she encounters Aurora, a unique and stylish theatre enthusiast battling illness, and an instant bond forms as they share a passion for the arts. Yet, amidst their budding friendship, Kirina witnesses the unjust treatment Aurora faces from her peers. Determined to be a beacon of support, Kirina courageously stands by Aurora’s side, refusing to let negativity overshadow their limited time together.

  • Nya K Chambless
    Director
    Heart, Just Believe
  • Nya K Chambless
    Writer
    Heart, Just Believe
  • Jerry Chambless
    Producer
    Click Clack Jack, Beautiful Noise, The Lucky 6, Surviving Lunch, Growing Garden, Bridge to the Other Side
  • Daria Droteva
    Key Cast
    "Kirina"
  • Katie Makovec
    Key Cast
    "Aurora"
  • Eva Wisniewski
    Key Cast
    "Paige"
  • Brindisi Capri
    Key Cast
    "Mara"
  • Victoria Flounders
    Key Cast
    "Mary"
  • Katherine Michelle Tanner
    Key Cast
    "Jeanne"
  • Todd Bellamy II
    Key Cast
    "Mr. Steven"
  • Elizabeth Coplan
    Executive Producers
    Grief Dialogues
  • Armbruster Family Trust
    Executive Producers
  • Famiglio Family
    Executive Producers
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Coming of Age, Family
  • Runtime:
    25 minutes 39 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    March 24, 2025
  • Production Budget:
    20,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States, United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States, United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Black Magic 6k Pro - Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16.9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Sarasota Film Festival
    Sarasota
    United States
    April 12, 2025
    North America Premiere
    Winner: Best Narrative Short - Jury Selection and Best Narrative Short - Audience Award
Director Biography - Nya K Chambless

Nya Chambless, a native of Sarasota, discovered her passion for acting at age 2 after seeing "Annie" on stage. Her theatrical debut came in "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" at Player's Theatre. Since then, Nya has built an impressive portfolio spanning indie films, commercials, and stage productions.

Notable performances include Penelope in “Ruby” at WBTT, Ivonka in "Once" at Florida Studio Theatre and a lead role in “the Growing Garden”, a children's TV pilot. She's also gained experience in improv with LA Connection Comedy Theatre Troupe.

Nya has contributed to the arts community as a spokesperson for the Arts & Cultural Alliance, a presenter at the IB Academy Film Awards, and a representative at the Sarasota Film Festival. Her recent work includes performances with WBTT and Stage of Discovery, as well as roles in films like "Bridge to the Other Side," "Florida Man," and "Shape of the Past."

Expanding into filmmaking, Nya has directed two short films. Her second, "Just Believe," screened in 15 countries, winning 11 international student film awards. She's trained under industry professionals including Nate Jacobs, Bob Marks, Howard Fine, and Jason Cannon.

Currently, Nya is in 9th-grade with AICE and VPA honors and continues to hone her skills in acting, filmmaking, singing, and dance.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

I love acting and making films because I love making people happy. I want them to experience something new and I hope that I can make a difference telling important stories.
My inspiration for My Guardian Angel is personal. When I was young, I switched schools and met Teeja. We instantly connected, like sisters, and spent hours talking. She taught me so much, and this film honors our friendship, showing how one good friend can make a difference. At her funeral, I never had the chance to speak, and that has stayed with me. This film is my eulogy to her, expressing what I couldn’t then, while also raising awareness about educating future generations on children with diseases or disabilities.
Beyond that, My Guardian Angel aims to teach children about acceptance, inclusion, and friendship, fostering empathy and understanding early on. I hope the film helps the audience relate to the characters, empathize with their struggles, and understand the lasting impact of bullying. Ultimately, I want viewers to leave with new perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the value of seeing and accepting others for who they truly are.