Jesszilla
 
 

Jesszilla is an award winning feature documentary

Jesselyn “JessZilla” Silva is a 3x national boxing champion with her sights set on being the best in the sport. Her father, Pedro, navigates what it means to support his daughter’s dreams in an extremely dangerous sport. As Jesselyn is on the cusp of making the Olympic team, an unthinkable diagnosis redefines what it means to fight.

JessZilla is a coming-of-age story about what it means to be a champion.

Notable screenings include IDFA, DOC NYC, Atlanta, Big Sky, and more.

We are currently working with our Executive Producer team at Versus to find a home for JessZilla on a network/streaming services. For inquiries, contact producer Ben Kainz.

 

Awards:

Best Picture, Best Documentary, Best Director - Fargo Film Festival

2023 Special Jury Mention: Documentary Feature - Atlanta Film Festival

Outstanding Documentary Feature - Ridgefield Film Festival

Best Cinematography - Flickers Rhode Island International Film Festival

 
 

This is a post I never wanted to make, but seeing Pedro share the outpouring of love as we remember her life after her passing, it’s obvious how many lives Jess touched.

Jess was wise beyond her years. She inspired me to challenge my limitations. She demonstrated grace and bravery in the face of insurmountable obstacles. Pedro shared that she never complained, always smiled, and fought as hard as she could.

When @jesselyn_silva was first diagnosed, she was given less than a year with treatment to live. She beat the odds - fought and won. For three years we got to see her smile, be it ringside at boxing events or in hospital.

I know that the waves of grief I feel are evidence of the love I have for Jess. She changed my life for the better and I will live the rest of my days with gratitude for having known her and a desire to make her proud.

For those asking where they can watch the film, as of this post in August 2024, we still have a few festival screenings coming up. We are aiming for a 2025 release, but seeing as how we are a small team of truly independent filmmakers we ask that you follow our instagram for updates.

Though Jesselyn has gone, our work continues. To bring more hope to this world and raise awareness for other children and families 🤍🕊️

May her memory be a blessing
- Emily