Jarvis Christian University is proud to spotlight the work of Communications and Media Arts faculty member Trenton McKay Judson, whose first feature-length film, Bad B*tch, is set for global release on May 16 via Amazon Prime, Fandango at Home, and cable networks. The action-comedy vigilante thriller is being distributed by Buffalo 8 and marks a significant milestone in Judson’s creative and professional journey—one deeply rooted in authenticity, diversity, and the power of narrative to drive cultural reflection.
Judson, a Davis County, Utah native and graduate of Weber State University, now calls Texas home and serves as a creative mentor to students at Jarvis Christian University. In Bad B*tch, he takes on multiple roles as writer, director, and even villain, crafting a story that challenges conventional portrayals of female-led action films. “So often, female protagonists are written as fragile or lacking ambition until something happens to them,” Judson noted. “That didn’t reflect the strong, complex women I’ve known my whole life.”
The film stars Erica Boozer as JoJo, a small-town builder turned bat-wielding vigilante after her best friend is assaulted by a corrupt powerbroker. It also stars Lar Park Lincoln (Friday the 13th Part 7) and Terry Kiser (Weekend at Bernie’s). The storyline, described as emotionally charged and culturally resonant, was born from a conversation Judson had in 2022 about the shortcomings of some female-led films, particularly in the action genre. It quickly evolved into a full script, written in under four months, and brought to life by a diverse creative team and a champion cinematographer, Johnny McConville.
Production was a whirlwind—three days of fight choreography followed by a seven-day shoot clocking 110 hours of on-set production time. Judson brought in Oscar nominated and Grammy Award-winning producer Amir Windom as executive producer and intentionally staffed his crew with professionals from underrepresented backgrounds. “Creativity thrives on difference,” Judson said. “Race, gender, background—all of it brings a freshness that leads to better stories.”
This philosophy also informs his work with students at Jarvis Christian University. Judson’s classes are known for their rigor and creative energy, encouraging students to find their voice through multimedia storytelling. Several students from JCU contributed to aspects of the production, gaining exposure to the mechanics of professional filmmaking and the discipline it requires. “Teaching here allows me to bridge theory and practice,” Judson shared. “When students can see you doing the work you teach, it brings everything to life.”
President Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt praised Judson’s achievements and their reflection on the university’s broader mission: “Dr. Judson’s work embodies the spirit of Jarvis Christian University—bold, purposeful, and transformative. We are proud of his accomplishments and the opportunities they open for our students.”
As Bad B*tch prepares for its worldwide debut, Judson is already deep into pre-production on his next film. While his path originally led him to acting, directing has emerged as his true passion. “The first day I stepped on set as a director, I knew. This is what I was meant to do.”
