When you watch a film like Empire Waist, which has three fat characters wearing a range of amazing clothing and being very different people, and you’re like, wait, why isn’t this the norm? It’s so easy to have these plus-size people in the film.

With genuine performance across the board, this uber-cute coming-of-age comedy is a good time at the movies, despite the occasional predictability and preachiness.

What's unique is that this movie isn't about transformation into conventional beauty but rather about accepting your body as it is, loving it, and showing it off.

In Empire Waist, writer/director Claire Ayoub coasts on a good message and feel-good vibe.