Kelly Collins Lintz, an actress known for her roles in iconic productions such as “We’re the Millers,” “The Accountant” and “Kermit’s Swamp Years” is making her directorial debut with her film "ABLE," a true film about Kayla Kosmalski, a child with Down syndrome who redefines what’s possible in her life.
“We just feel like it’s time for us to tell some stories of our own,” Lintz said.
Lintz and her family moved to the Auburn area a few years ago, and she soon discovered the city's involvement in the Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama and the EAGLES Program, which are organizations that serve individuals with Down syndrome. Because of the Auburn's intentionality in serving those with Down syndrome, Lintz is drawn to the town's setting and attitude.
“What if Auburn wasn’t just known for football and basketball? What if it was known as a place where storytellers go?” Lintz said.
Through "ABLE," Lintz wants to show the innate power and joy individuals with Down syndrome possess, as well as the importance of supportive family members. Amy Kosmalski, Kayla's mother, is a character who does anything possible to help her daughter live a thriving, full life rather than being cast aside.
Lintz said she couldn’t find a better story for her directorial debut, as the real Kayla Kosmalski was crowned Miss Delaware Teen USA in 2024, was a member of her high school’s National Honor Society and is currently a collegiate cheerleader.
“[Kayla] has just really redefined what is possible for a person with Down syndrome, and we felt like her story could do a lot to change the narrative surrounding that diagnosis,” Lintz said.
Lintz graduated from Penn State with a degree in regional theatre and has spent the last 35 years in the film industry. While pursuing her own acting career, she also raised four children who are all now involved in acting.
Leaving her comfort zone of acting to pursue directing has proven to be a challenge for Lintz.
“To sit down and write a full-length screenplay is like climbing Mount Everest. It’s probably the most Herculean thing I’ve ever attempted,” Lintz said.
Lintz is also responsible for updating the "ABLE" production’s website, managing its social media accounts and raising funds for the film.
The movie is currently in the developmental stage of production, meaning it will be a while before it actually starts filming. The project needs enough money to get off the ground first. To help, Lintz has started the Auburn "ABLE" Ally Campaign, a money fundraising initiative centered around Auburn University students.
One of the ways Lintz hopes to engage the Auburn community in her project is by giving students real experience in their respective majors when it is time for the film to enter the pre-production and production phases.
Members of the theatre department are able to be involved on a film set and audition without agency representation. As the movie gets closer to being produced, internships will be available for film and marketing majors.
“We want as many Auburn students that want to be a part of this to be a part of this, if they want to. We know that if you love Auburn, Auburn will love you back,” Lintz said.
Lintz’s goal is to begin filming the movie in the summer of 2026 with a very tentative release date of 2027. She hopes to get a theatrical release by then through a major studio. Form Films in Atlanta is her current production partner.
“I think [I’m] supposed to do this for the rest of [my] life. [I’m] supposed to tell stories that inspire the hearts and minds of humanity,” Lintz said.
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Sam Bainter, freshman in English language arts education, is a culture writer for The Auburn Plainsman.
