Can you tell us about your latest film project and the process you went through in bringing it to life?

Black, Queer & Done is a feature length documentary exploring the experience of Black Queer artists and arts professionals within the UK and wider mainstream arts, media and culture sector. Delegates from the UK, US and Africa explore themes through interviews and focus groups; these commentaries are interspersed with eight artistic expressions from diverse performers, including actors, circus artistes, dancers and poets.

 

What inspired you to become a filmmaker and pursue a career in the film industry?

I’m an emergent filmmaker and a story-teller and writer first; I’ve always been fascinated by people and prose. I count myself as extremely privileged to be able to pursue a career that allows me to express myself and give voice to others through artistic media. With BQD, I had a clear idea of the story I wanted to tell. I’m very focused, so what I put my mind to, usually happens!

 

What challenges did you encounter during the filmmaking process and how did you overcome them?

We produced BQD during the global lockdowns, and although we were able to work around restrictions, we had quite a lot to deal with. The lockdowns meant we had to think on our feet, changing in person interviews to online video calls as well as working around social distancing. This also meant we had unforeseen technical challenges, especially around sound, lighting and connectivity too. It was a phenomenal learning experience.

 

What was the most memorable moment for you during the production of your film?

Can you share any interesting anecdotes or behind-the-scenes stories from the making of your film?

Noone on my small crew has ever produced a feature film before. So, we did alot of watching YouTube and trouble shooting in the moment. I’d never used Premiere Pro prior to the production of BQD, so ‘practiced’ my skills chopping and rearranging the rough cut edits of the interviews, so that my profesional editors had an easier job in terms of film production. It was a very emotional baptism of fire for me!

 

How do you approach storytelling in your films? What themes or messages do you try to convey?

I set out to créate a film about LGBT+ artists and arts professionals that allowed the viewer to see the indivdiuals as humans first, without the sensatuonalism offered portrayed by the mainstream media.

 

The best feedback I received at the only screening to date, a premiere at Belgrade Theatre in Coventry, was from a 70+ years Trinidadian man (the father of a member of the crew). He shared that he was apprehensive coming to see the film; having watched it he was surprised and educated by the compelling commentary and artistic expression. He was not only proud of his son, he was proud of me too and he wanted his friends to be able to see it, because he wanted to be able to speak to them about the themes shared.

 

What is your preferred genre of filmmaking and why? Are there any specific directors or filmmakers who have influenced your work?

I love watching science ficiton/fantasy; however, I am hooked on producing documentaries. I love hearing from real people and helping curate original voices and thoughts. In terms of filmmakers I admire, these would include Quentin Tarantino, Martin Scorcese, The Daniels and Michael Moore.

 

How do you select your cast and crew for your film projects? What qualities do you look for in collaborators?

On this Project, I kept the crew small and only worked with profesionals I’d worked with before. Our Budget was so tight, I needed that reassurance that we would be able to work quickly, efficiently and productively together. Both Trevor and Dwain are consummate professionals, demonstrating high levels of professionalism, creativity and care. They also have great senses of humour and incredibly hard working people too.

 

How important do you think film festivals are for independent filmmakers, and what has been your experience with film festivals so far?

Film festivals are critical for independent filmmakers; from the validation of being selected, right through to the kudos of being able to share the selection, it’s really important also for the psyche too. From the story perspective, knowing that our work is being shared and enjoyed by audiences across the world is really humbling and powerful.

 

Can you tell us about any awards or recognition your films have received and how they have impacted your career?

We’ve entered BQD into a number of festivals, so we’re now awaiting advice as to whether we’ve won any accolades. Awards in general are always great (however, as an artist, it’s really important not to only rate yourself by this barometer too!).

 

How do you handle feedback and criticism of your films? How do you use it to improve your craft?

I love feedback! I’m a trained coach and it’s one of the fundamental of the practice… and I’ve also been a marketing profesional for more than 20 years. Feedack is the liveblood to producing compelling comms. I don’t see critical review of the film any differently. I haven’t had any negative reviews as yet… even if I am temporarily in my emotions, I will bounce back, regroup and use that feedback in my next Project.

 

What do you enjoy most about the process of filmmaking? Is there anything you find particularly challenging?

I really loved the planning process. I’m an artist first so the creativity element appeals to me, from creating lighting mood boards through to the research and generation of questions. I loved the preparation and it paid dividends in terms of the production and editing of the film too, which also made me very happy too!

 

How do you approach the distribution of your films? What strategies do you employ to reach a wider audience?

We are touring the film around the UK, on a commission basis, targeting theatres, arts centres, independent cinemas and community centres. We have also submitted the film to a number of festivals globally too.

 

What advice do you have for aspiring filmmakers who are just starting their journey in the film industry?

Just do it! Research, read, ask stupid questions from clever people and just do it!

 

Finally, can you share with us your future plans and upcoming projects as a filmmaker?

My next feature will focus on exploring Black (heterosexual) relationships, specifically dating in the UK; I’m really keen to delve into the changing protocols, the influence of social media and the differences between Black Western, Caribbean and African expectations.