Based on the real-life transition story of Rafaela Amrita Crevoshay
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Directed by MARCELLE ABELA
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Original Music / Lyrics by MICHAEL A. LEVINE
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"A poignant story of self-discovery with
lyrics capturing a lifetime of hidden truth to freedom."
lyrics capturing a lifetime of hidden truth to freedom."
"Very original, with superb performances"
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"A marvelous tribute"
"Got goosebumps"
"Beautifully produced"
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"Absolutely stunning"
"Truly a heart-tingling work of art"
"A moving film with a hit tune"
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1. GRAND PRIZE MUSIC VIDEO
2. AWARD OF RECOGNITION
UKRAINIAN PREMIERE
ICJ's 2026 International Film Award - September 12, 2026 - Uzhhorod Castle, Western Ukraine
IMPACT: Rita's Song is screening at 100 front-line schools in the Cinema in Schools program (see below).
ICJ's 2026 International Film Award - September 12, 2026 - Uzhhorod Castle, Western Ukraine
IMPACT: Rita's Song is screening at 100 front-line schools in the Cinema in Schools program (see below).
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2026 | MUSIC VIDEO, BIOGRAPHY
Based on the real-life transition story of Rafaela Amrita Crevoshay
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The Story
An award-winning music short documenting the true story of Rafaela Amrita Crevoshay (Rita), who transitioned from male to female at the age of 76 years after a lifetime of hiding.
Cast
STARRING
Rafaela Amrita Crevoshay Crew
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Official Poster (2026)
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Music & lyrics © 2026 Michael A. Levine | United States | 4 mins
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Gallery
2026 - Ukraine Cinema in Schools Initiative
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Rita’s Song was selected for screening as part of Ukraine's Cinema in Schools cultural and educational program. The film was presented to students in front-line schools across Ukraine and officially recognized with a Certificate for Significant Cultural Contribution. The filmmakers also received hand-drawn artwork created by participating children, together with commemorative gifts from the program.
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Producers' Statement
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Rita’s Song began with a profound encounter: the true story of Rafaela Amrita Crevoshay – Rita – who, at the age of 76 years, summoned up the courage to transition from male to female after decades of concealing her authentic self. Rita’s journey of late-life liberation struck us as both heartbreaking and triumphant – a reminder that the pursuit of truth can arrive at any stage of life and that it is never too late to live fully. As producers, filmmakers, and composers, we set out to craft an intimate music short that brings Rita’s experience to light for all, while honoring it without sensationalism. This is not a dramatization but a gentle documentation – featuring Rita herself, the soaring vocals of Angelica Innocente, and supporting musicianship – that lets the music and imagery carry the emotional weight of a lifetime of hidden truth giving way to freedom.
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Rita’s Song explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the quiet power of authenticity. In an era when transgender stories are too often marginalized or told from the outside, if not dismissed altogether, we wanted to center Rita’s voice and presence, celebrating the beauty and dignity of embracing one’s identity albeit later in life. Rita’s Song is, at its core, a message of hope: that suppressed truths, once spoken, can become sources of profound joy and connection. We are deeply grateful to Rita for entrusting us with her story and hope this short film resonates with anyone who has ever felt the need to hide a part of themselves.
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#ritassong