Rikki is a writer-director who tells stories about people who break the rules to do the right thing, often with a focus on women and authentic disability representation. The film “Revenge of the Electric Cart” is heavily based on her childhood–her mother was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis when she was 6, and her father was sometimes stationed away from home while serving in the military. Rikki decided to pursue film more seriously after a mentorship with a Netflix showrunner, and “Electric Cart” is her first short. Rikki has since directed and produced two more short films and has written multiple scripts that have placed in the top 15% at Nicholl and in the second round at Austin Film Festival. Rikki hopes that her film provides visibility to invisible illness and encourages empathy.

“My mom was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) when I was 6 years old, and this short is heavily based on our experience. I’ll always remember the glares and questions we’d get at the grocery store when my mom, who “looked” healthy, had to use the electric cart because her knees hurt too much to walk long distances. One day, I decided to lean into the fact that people were looking at us anyway to pull a harmless prank!
As an adult, I made “Revenge of the Electric Cart” so people like me and like my mom could be seen. A lot of people don’t understand how debilitating RA can be, especially since it is an “invisible” illness where people experience good days and bad days. One of the most rewarding parts of sharing this short with others has been hearing the stories of people who experienced something similar and felt seen–or less lonely–after watching this story. I hope this film shines light on an experience you may or may not be familiar with and that it brings you joy!”

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