In Mountain Girl, filmmaker Michael Bud spotlights Diane Mahree, also known as Diane Adelson, as she reflects on her extraordinary life, guided by her motto: ‘Don’t give up on anything.” Once a prominent fashion model featured in Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, Diane found early success on international runways. She also acted in the infamous low-budget horror film Manos: The Hands of Fate (1966), which would later gain cult status decades after its release and be dubbed the ‘worst movie ever made.'” After stepping away from the public eye, Diane found peace in Colorado, where she opened an antique shop and dedicated herself to local volunteer work.
Diane Mahree, former model and cult film actress, gazes out over the Colorado landscape.
“She also acted in the infamous low-budget horror film Manos: The Hands of Fate…”
The documentary captures her resilience in later years as she survived cancer and four bouts of COVID-19, emerging with a message of hope and persistence. Despite facing loneliness and health setbacks, Diane maintains a positive outlook on life, grounded in her belief that you never know what life holds next. Her story is filled with unexpected turns—from being thought dead to being “rediscovered” by cult film fans—underscoring her enduring spirit and ability to embrace life’s surprises.
Mountain Girl serves as an inspirational message not to give up on life and to find joy along the way. She battled cancer partly by moving back to nature and has embraced mountain living ever since. This five-minute short is a quiet reminder to slow down and live life, even when you feel like giving up.
For more information about Mountain Girl, visit Michael Bud’s official website.
"…you never know what life holds next."
