When a young Native American boy struggles with self-confidence and societal expectations, his uncle introduces him to the transformative art of Hoop Dance. Through this tradition, he discovers strength, resilience, and the courage to embrace his heritage. Inspired by true events, Courage is a heartfelt story about identity and empowerment.

Courage is more than a film, it’s Eric Hernandez’s real-life journey.

As a young urban Native, Eric was introduced to the art of hoop dance by his Uncle Terry, who not only taught him the dance but also gave him the tools to tell his story through movement and tradition. Through hoop dance, Eric found a powerful way to connect with his heritage and express his identity.

Celebrating Our All-Indigenous Talent

Mateo Ulibarri

Actor - Eric
Mateo Ulibarri, from the Pueblo of Pojoaque in New Mexico, is the 2024 Teen World Hoop Dance Champion and a proud representative of the next generation of Native American Hoop Dancers. Having started his journey as a young child, Mateo's passion for hoop dancing has grown into a daily expression of culture, art, and identity.
In Courage, Mateo takes on the role of Eric, bringing authenticity and heart to the story of cultural reconnection through hoop dancing. With a love for performing and sharing his heritage, Mateo continues to inspire audiences with his skill, dedication, and deep connection to this beautiful tradition.
Terry Goedel

Actor - Uncle Terry
Terry L. Goedel, Eric's real-life uncle and mentor, is the person who introduced him to the transformative art of hoop dancing. A nine-time Native American World Hoop Dance Champion, Terry grew up on the Tulalip Reservation in Washington State, where he struggled to connect with his Native roots. That changed in 1971 when he witnessed three hoop dancers perform, sparking a journey that redefined his identity. For over 52 years, Terry has shared his hoop dancing story on stages around the world, inspiring countless individuals. With a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University and a Master’s in Education Administration from Chapman University, Terry blends his passion for cultural expression with his dedication to education and mentorship.
Cara Jade Myers

Actor - Jean
A member of the Wichita and Kiowa tribes, Myers was long-listed for a BAFTA Best Supporting Actress nomination in January 2024 for her powerful performance in Killers of the Flower Moon. Named one of Variety's 10 Actors to Watch in December 2023, Myers gained acclaim starring alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro in Martin Scorsese's Oscar-nominated Killers of the Flower Moon. She plays "Anna Kyle Brown," whose disappearance sparked the FBI investigation into the Osage murders. The film premiered at Cannes in May 2023 and was released theatrically on October 20, 2023, earning a Best Picture nomination at the 96th Academy Awards, among numerous other accolades.
PJ Vegas

Actor - Tony
PJ Vegas is a singer, songwriter, composer, and son of Pat Vegas founder of legendary Native American rock group @Redbone. Born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. He is a MTV VMA winner for Best Video for Good in 2017 and co- produced Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations in collaboration with the city of Los Angeles.While carving out his own lane in music he has become a voice for a new generation of LA/Indigenous artists reclaiming their space in mainstream music.
Pyet Despain

Co-Producer, Actor - Mrs Johnson
Pyet Despain, a member of the Potawatomi tribe, brings a deep personal connection to the narrative of "Courage." Having lived a story similar to the one we are telling, Pyet is passionately committed to rewriting and reclaiming narratives about indigenous communities. Her insights and dedication are invaluable in ensuring that the film resonates with authenticity and serves as a powerful tool for cultural education and change.

Our Crew: Award-Winning Experts Behind the Film

Eric Hernandez

Writer, Director, & Producer
Eric Hernandez is a renowned Native American hoop dancer and storyteller from the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. This film is based on Eric's own true experiences, reflecting his journey of embracing his heritage amid prevalent cultural stereotypes. A former TEDx speaker and World Hoop Dance Champion, Eric has performed in over 5,000 shows, including as a lead performer with Cirque du Soleil. With a social media following of over 500,000, Eric brings his rich heritage and dynamic approach to storytelling to "Courage." His passion for cultural expression and education aims to inspire and enlighten audiences through the power of film.
Mario Contini

Director of Photography
Mario Contini is a versatile cinematographer celebrated for his work on Beef (2023), 1923 (2022), and Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022). Known for his collaborative approach and deep appreciation for his crew, Mario has built a diverse portfolio, including music videos for artists like Post Malone, 2 Chainz, and Rich the Kid, as well as commercials for major brands such as Walmart and Dr Pepper. His dynamic style and dedication to storytelling have made him a sought-after talent in the industry.
Jessica Baclesse

Editor
Jessica Baclesse is an award-winning film editor working in features, television and commercials. Most recently, she edited Sydney Freeland's sports drama Rez Ball which will premiere at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival. She edited Michael B. Jordan's directing debut Creed III with Tyler Nelson which opened to record breaking success at the box office. She was an additional editor on Marvel's 2021 television series Loki, directed by Kate Herron, and a pre-production editor on The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.
Adam Conte

Assistant Director
Adam Conte is an Emmy-winning filmmaker dedicated to uplifting Indigenous voices through impactful storytelling. Of Oneida, Mohawk, Filipino, American, and Italian heritage, he brings a unique perspective to his work as a director, director of photography, and second unit director. Passionate about representation, Adam creates visually stunning narratives that challenge stereotypes and celebrate diversity, inspiring audiences worldwide.
Geneviève Gros-Louis

Music Composer
Geneviève Gros-Louis, a composer, violinist, and producer from the Huron-Wendat Nation in Wendake, Québec, is based in Los Angeles. Known for addressing mental health, women's issues, and Indigenous challenges through her music, her work resonates globally. She has performed at prestigious events like the Cannes Film Festival and Paris Fashion Week and recently scored National Geographic’s Life Below Zero: First Alaskans and its upcoming season.
Stephen Derluguian

Colorist

His work includes the Oscar-winning films The Last Repair Shop (2024) and The Queen of Basketball (2022). Born in Krasnodar, USSR, and raised in Chicago, Stephen's early exposure to international and Soviet cinema on VHS sparked his passion for film. A Magna Cum Laude graduate of USC's School of Cinematic Arts in Critical Studies, he has dedicated his career to mastering the art of filmmaking and post-production. With a deep commitment to creating thoughtful and impactful cinema, Stephen continues to bring visual storytelling to life through his expert craft in color grading.
Emmie Edmo

Producer
Emmie Edmo, Shoshone and Blackfeet Native American, is a producer and photographer with a background in commercial marketing and photography. Passionate about storytelling, Emmie specializes in collaborating with Indigenous brands and individuals to uplift their voices and bring their unique stories to life through compelling visuals and creative projects.
Petra Battiest

Makeup Artist
Petra's artistic skills and vision has graced red carpets, film and television productions, theatrical performances, commercials and music videos. Notably, she has collaborated with renowned fashion designers such as Oscar De La Renta and Lauren Good Day, showcasing her skills in high-profile fashion shows. Additionally, Petra has formed successful partnerships with brands including Toyota and Hard Rock International. Her exceptional work has garnered recognition, earning features in publications like NBC News and Vogue.
Ari Robbins

Steady Cam Operator
Ari Robbins is best known for his work on La La Land, Everything Everywhere All at Once, Blue Beetle, and more. His journey into Steadicam began at 18 when he was captivated by the harmony between operator and equipment. After moving to Los Angeles and working in lighting, he attended a Steadicam Operators Association workshop in 2004. On his 21st birthday, he purchased his first rig and shot his first scene as a Steadicam operator. Ari continues to bring the same passion to his craft that inspired him from the start.
Aaron Glascock

Sound Designer
An award-winning supervising sound editor, sound designer, and re-recording mixer whose expertise has shaped some of Hollywood's most celebrated films. With an Oscar nomination for Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) and an MPSE Golden Reel Award for War of the Worlds, Aaron’s work stands as a testament to his mastery of sound. His credits include Creed 2, Chappaquiddick, and Spring Breakers, where he earned the Halfway Award for Best Sound Mixing. Known for crafting immersive auditory experiences.