When did you decide you wanted to be an actor/director/screenplayer?
I decided decades ago. But I did not vocalize until early 2022. I started writing, planning, and got to work. Filmmaking is all I want to aside from writing scripts.
How did your family react?
My wife was completely supportive and encouraging without any apprehension or hesitation. My daughters showed semi-interest (which is high praise from them!) It was the exact reaction that I needed to make the leap.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
My wife, Xxena is my inspiration. She’s the first person to read any script. My muse is one of the actors we work with, Tricia Buerke, who encapsulates perfectly the way I want to capture what I see in my wife on film. They’re two brilliant, strong, stunning and resilient women who constantly inspire me.
Who's your biggest fan?
My eight-year-old daughter, Mary, is far and away my biggest fan. She is passionate about my work. She wants to know every detail about the filmmaking process. She frequently speaks to the actors I have worked with. She loves it and is so intrigued by it all. My seven-year-old, Victoria, is probably a close second. One of her classmates (before the movie was released anywhere) said my movies were bad. I laughed so hard when she told me, but Victoria refuses to speak to that kid to this day. So, she may be my second biggest fan, but probably my biggest defender.
What brings you inspiration the most?
My wife and daughters, each and every day. I don’t know who I would be without them, but I wouldn’t like that person.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
This is an evasive answer, but a true one. I would want to work with the actors I have worked with. Not having the presence of a Tricia, Heaven Nikitenko, Chris Rivera, Nicolas Sullivan, Michael Lake, Susan Ly, Haulston Mann or Don Scribner would leave me empty. If, however, I could work with an actor along with my collaborators, then Isabelle Huppert, Toni Collette, Paul Giamatti and Michael Keaton. Those actors absolutely floor me again and again.
For directors, watching Michael Haneke, Spielberg, David Lynch, Julia Decournau, Martin Scorsese, Tarantino, Jim Jarmusch, Gaspar Noe, Guillermo del Toro or Jane Campion work would be an absolute dream. They are masters of their craft who create indelible work.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
Absolutely. “Fight Club”, “American Psycho”, “Carrie”, “Gone With The Wind” and even “The Godfather” (parts 1 and 2, which cover the entire novel over the two films) are all better than the books upon which they were based. In the case of “Jaws”, the film and Carl Gottlieb’s screenplay combine to make a movie absolutely superior to its source material. I’m sure there are glaring omissions in my answer. But it has absolutely happened many times, and in many cases the novelists have said as much.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
E.T. unquestionably. It’s the first movie I saw in a theater, a second run. Or at least the first one I remember seeing in a theater, when I was around four years old. I was completely taken in by the magic of the world on screen. The film still holds that magic for me. As I grew, upon repeated viewings I found more and more in the film.
First, it’s shot entirely from Elliot’s (Henry Thomas’) perspective. This is such a perfect choice. It makes it resonate more for children, but it takes you back to childhood when you watch it as an adult. We are so easily drawn into Elliot’s experiences and life that it’s seamless. A profound use of cinematography, like an unforced forced perspective.
Second, the story…despite involving an alien and a family breaking down…is relatively simple. Like a Billy Joe Shaver song or a Hemingway novel. Profound storytelling is often simple, conveyed like conversation, which creates realism and resonance. Children can follow the overall story, while adults can relate to the incredible relationship and family dynamics, which are actually deep and often painful. The family dynamic almost hints at a Cassavetes-level of turmoil that occurred before we enter the story, and that most certainly occurs behind the scenes.
Third, you see accessible symbolism throughout. E.T. fills the void of the father that abandoned the family. This family, coping with its potential destruction, is brought together by this new addition.
The emotion, the magic, is all earned. None of it is manipulative. And the ending is not entirely happy. Hopeful, but not Hollywood-standard happy. Elliot, his father gone, makes the difficult decision to grow up quickly and realize he must let his friend go because it’s what’s best for everyone.
There’s a moment at the end, amidst the tears of his family, amidst the absolutely astounding performances of Dee Wallace and Drew Barrymore, where the man (“Keys”) at the head of the government organization they’re fleeing from (played by Peter Coyote) makes the choice not to intervene. He told Elliot that he loved aliens and wanted them to be real. A childhood dream that somewhere became abandoned but, upon having that dream realized, he lets his childhood love and wonder overcome him and he simply basks in the awe of what’s before him. Keys embraces this vestige of his childhood, and draws on his heart, his gut and his feeling to ignore the trappings of adulthood to do what’s best. At the same time, Elliot draws on his hear, his gut and his feelings to embrace the trappings of adulthood by acting selflessly. The film is perfect. Inspiration was impossible to avoid.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
There were moments, but they passed quickly. I made mistakes, but I was determined to learn from and never repeat them. Professionally, I have thought about quitting everything that isn’t art.
On set what excites you the most?
The moment I call “action” is sublime. Few things compare. I have won trials, had many sporting accomplishments, won awards at major festivals, etc. There is nothing like the moments leading up to a take, knowing everything is ready to be captured, calling action, and waiting to see what happens. It’s everything.
And what scares you the most?
When we wrap. You are done and you wait months and months to truly see if what you’ve done amounts to a film. It’s such a relief and I am so happy to have completed the majority of such a monumental undertaking. But a day later, two at most, and I am dying to get back to set.
What's your next project?
“Immersion” is nearing the end of post-production and my next scheduled shoot is the feature film “Fetish”, which will be the third feature film I have written and directed.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
That’s an incredible question. Lynch to me is so singular I cannot choose him. I would have to say Werner Herzog. I feel that he is so multifaceted and brilliant that there is no movie, no subject, that he could not master cinematically.
An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....
Clear vision and relentless determination.
For you Cinema is....
The perfect amalgam of numerous artistic crafts (acting, cinematography, storytelling, painting, design, fashion, makeup artistry, hairstyling, architecture, technology, music, and so forth) joining together to make a singular work of art.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
Absolutely, especially when it’s an artistic choice by the filmmaker as opposed to necessity or age of the film. The profound impact the choice of using black and white has had on films such as “Schindler’s List”, Lynch’s “The Elephant Man”, the first act of “Poor Things”, “The White Ribbon” and even “Coffee and Cigarettes” all have very specific artistic resonance which is emotionally and purposefully impactful. It’s an absolutely beautiful choice when it fits the narrative and the filmmaker’s vision.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
Of course! If you love filmmaking, the thought has gone through your head.
Do you think you're gonna win it?
Absolutely not! Lynch, Hitchcock, Gaspar Noe, Chaplin, Glenn Close, and many, many more have never won this prestigious award. I certainly have no business, let alone any expectation, of receiving one. However, I could very well see it happening for the incredible actors and crews I have been privileged to work with.
The biggest challenge of being an actor\director\ screenplayer is…
The biggest challenge for me and maybe all writers is the initial creation of a story that is worthy to be developed and shared. A story that has a compelling purpose and energy to foster inspiration, motivation, and cultivation of hope, unity, and harmony on a global scale.
Choose an Actor, Choose an Actress...and now choose a story you would like to direct or play with both of them:
I would love to see Denzel Washington as the antagonist, paired with Viola Davis as an investigator, locked in a intense murder mystery crime spree with a lot of twists and turns.
Who’s the first Artist that let you understand you wanted to be an screenwriter?
I hold a deep admiration for Spike Lee. His extensive body of work is not mere entertainment, but they often are catalysts for meaningful social discourse and cultural introspection. Spike Lee inspired me as a filmmaker and made me believe that cinema has the power to provoke thoughts, evoke emotions, and spark positiv
What really excites you artistically or emotionally?
Whenever I encounter a masterfully crafted story that celebrates virtues such as goodness, unity, and righteousness, I always have a profound, almost transcendent experience within me. I am always deeply moved by the power of storytelling to illuminate the best aspects of humanity and inspire positive action.
Marlon Brando said “Never confuse the size of your Paycheck with the size of your talent”. Do you agree?
I agree with Marlon Brando's sentiment. A paycheck may reflect various external aspects including market demand, negotiation skills, and industry trends, but it doesn't necessarily correlate with the depth or breadth of one's talent. True talent transcends monetary compensation and encompasses a multitude of factors such as creativity, skill, passion, and impact.
Have you ever been discouraged by someone about your life\career choices?
When it comes my life and purpose, I have a lot of faith, and I firmly believe in and dedicate myself to the path I am destined to pursue. I do welcome constructive criticism from people I trust, as they have often provided valuable insights to develop my screenplay into its current form. However, I remain steadfast in my convictions and am resilient against any negative criticism or harmful analysis from others who seek to discourage or tear me down.
Do you think it's harder for a woman being a Filmmaker?
As an African American, I empathize deeply with the struggles of women in the film industry. Both black filmmakers and female filmmakers encounter similar (though different) challenges due to systemic biases and inequalities. Historically, both groups have been underrepresented and marginalized in mainstream cinema, facing barriers to entry, limited opportunities for advancement, and often being pigeonholed into specific genres or narratives. With time, we both have forged paths and broken barriers, but there's still more work to do, and I hope that we can continue to make the film industry a more diverse and inclusive place for all.
Do you think that Fame and money could easily change your own screenwriter?
I am a humble, simple Sam of a man, born and raised in a small East Texas town. Even though we were a poor family of 7, my parents were hardworking and always kept a roof over our heads, food on the table, and love in our hearts. Therefore, I never had thoughts or entertained grandiose fantasies. And even in the advanced years of my life, my spirit remains humble and my living simple.
Who’s the Movie star that made you dream for the first time?
My first and lingering movie crush was for Pam Grier. When I first saw this beautiful, courageous and devout African Queen on the big screen, WOW!! She evoked in me feelings of deep admiration and respect.
Make a wish about your career...
My hope and prayer is to have my faith-base screenplay "At The Mercy Of Faith" produced into a compelling and spiritually uplifting film. I envision it as a powerful and anointed movie that will ignite inspiration, foster unity, and uplift audiences worldwide. I hope to bring people together in harmony, honoring God, and promoting peaceful coexistence.
Talking about cinema\Showbusiness, how hard is it to remain completely honest to yourself as an artist?
It has been both difficult and easy at the same time, actually. Upholding the integrity of my screenplay and remaining true to my values has often led to difficult decisions, resulting in missed opportunities and potential financial loss. But, my understanding of myself as a writer and the profound purpose of my work guides every decision I make. I refuse to compromise the essence of my screenplay despite the allure of a big payday. So, the decisions to turn down opportunities and money, while painful, were surprisingly easy. I have faith that, when the timing is right, a dedicated team will assemble to realize the vision I've painstakingly crafted, ensuring that my story is brought to life authentically and with the impact I intended.
The Film you have loved the most?
I have been a devoted fan of both "It's A Wonderful Life" and "The 10 Commandments" ever since I first watched them at age 15. Every year since, I always eagerly look forward to Christmas and Easter, when they are usually rebroadcasted. "It's a Wonderful Life" reminds me of the importance of community, sacrifice, and family connection. "The Ten Commandments" offers a spiritual and moral reflection and marks a deeper significance for the holiday season.
And now, don’t be shy….the one that annoyed you the most?
I would like to plead the fifth on this one. I prefer not to speak negatively about any movie. Every film begins with a promising concept, yet due to various factors, they may not be realized as intended. As a writer, I can empathize with the challenges in bringing creative visions to fruition. No matter how bad a movie is, it still has valuable lessons to offer, even if those lessons are only "what not to do."
Your biggest artistic goal is…
I want to tell captivating stories that explore the essence of the human condition, uplifting spirits and emphasizing our shared humanity. Through relatable characters and universal themes, my stories seek to bridge divides and inspire empathy and understanding. My ultimate goal is to unite audiences through the power of storytelling, fostering connection and positive change in our world.
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
I think I would like to try my hand at being a film-festival organizer. I've been considering the idea of organizing a faith-based film festival for some time. I would like to create a space for fellowship, dialogue, and exploration of spirituality through cinema. It would be an inspiring platform for both filmmakers and audiences.
How important is it to be rewarded as an Artist?
Recognition and rewards are important to artists, as they provide a sense of accomplishment, boost confidence, and encourage the artist to continue their work. Monetary rewards also allow the artist to support themselves financially and invest more in their craft. While I believe that external validation is very important to an artist, I also believe that the art itself (in my case, writing) can provide a lot of satisfaction to the artist, through personal growth, self-expression, and impact on others.
Do you have regrets?
This screenplay is loosely based on my own life story. I went through similar struggles as the main character Marvin Tailor. I made a lot of mistakes in my life. I hurt a lot of people. Those are my deepest regrets. 30 years ago, amidst the depths of my despair, the seed of this screenplay germinated within my consciousness, offering a glimmer of hope in my darkest hour. It became a lifeline, a source of redemption and solace amidst the wreckage of my past. While I cannot undo the wrongs of yesterday, I draw upon the lessons learned from my pains and regrets to breathe life into this narrative. The screenplay served as a cathartic outlet, allowing me to confront the complexities of my own journey and weave them into the fabric of Marvin's story. Through the lens of fiction, I explore themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the transformative power of second chances.
What’s the message you want to express through your art?
The core message I endeavor to convey through my storytelling is an exploration of themes such as faith, forgiveness, redemption, and humanity.
At the heart of my narratives lies a reverence for the transformative power of faith and a belief in the divine presence guiding our lives. Through the journeys of my characters, I seek to illustrate the enduring strength found in faith, even in the face of adversity. Forgiveness is another central theme of my stories. I aim to highlight the healing potential of forgiveness, both in granting it to others and in seeking it for oneself. Redemption serves as a beacon of hope in my narratives. I aim to convey the universal truth that no one is beyond redemption, and that growth and change are always possible, regardless of past mistakes.
Finally, my storytelling is a celebration of humanity in all its complexity and beauty. I seek to portray characters in their raw authenticity, navigating the intricacies of human relationships, emotions, and experiences. By shining a light on our shared humanity, I endeavor to foster empathy, compassion, and understanding among audiences, ultimately inspiring them to reflect on their own lives and strive for greater connection and empathy in the world around them.
When did you realize you wanted to be a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?
I was teaching film production and editing as part of my computer technology classes at public schools in Orange County, CA, when I realized that teaching film was the only part of my job that I enjoyed. I didn’t mind working late helping kids with editing or guiding them to make better films. When I retired from teaching I decided to make music videos from my old music catalog (in my former life I was a touring musician) because nobody is buying CDs anymore and streaming services have pretty much killed the digital downloads from services like iTunes and Amazon. I decided to get my music back out there I needed to make some catchy music videos and get my songs on YouTube.
Do you remember your first time at the Movies?
I do remember my first time at the movies, or at least the first one I remember. My dad took me to see The Sound Of Music when it was released in 1965, I was 4 years old. It was a magical experience and thank you for this question, as I realize now it was really a series of music videos stuck together with a storyline about Nazis.
If you should change country where would you like to work?
If I was to move to another country I would like to live in Portugal or Spain, but I love the desert southwest and plan to live out my days in Palm Springs, California. A very happy place.
Two films that have marked your life for better or for worse…
Anything by Hitchcock, then a tie between Scorsese or Coppola. Hitchcock fascinated me from an early age, his POV film techniques and his themes where good people do unsavory things. In Rear Window, James Stewart’s character is a voyeur and his girlfriend is caught breaking into the suspect’s apartment. Also, I love the way Scorsese and Coppola cut their scenes/montages to a particular song that could enhance the work on camera. For example Goodfellas and Apocalypse Now…both films have killer soundtracks, again, kind of a sequence of music videos with a story attached.
What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?
Being self-taught (because I was given the film class at the last minute before my first semester as a new teacher) this is probably not a good question. I was shooting photos for the Palm Springs International Film Festival when a film intern started talking to me about how she was going for her master's degree in filmmaking (and going deeper into debt in the process). I told her she needed to skip the advanced degree and start building her portfolio of little films, in other words, studios and producers want to see what you can do, not what you “know.”
Have you ever hated your ambition?
Not at all. I’m in a perfect place right now, I can do my own projects at a pace that is comfortable and I can pick and choose which projects I want to be associated with, based on their value to me as someone who wants to learn and improve without getting beat up in the process.
Francois Truffaut used to think that "Film Lovers are sick people”… was he right?
Well lucky for him this is not true. I think the quote was taken out of context or he was actually directing the comment at film critics. His argument was that people who love life, live it. Film fans, meanwhile, are “neurotic” escapists. I think this is wrong because I DO like to escape to the theater and watch a movie on the Big Screen. But I’m in the theater to learn as well.
Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?
A big marquee, spotlights in the sky, a red carpet, and a media wall where my film is being premiered. I have won some film festivals, but so far have not been able to attend the events. Soon though, I hope. I was just asked to attend a festival in Mumbai but that’s out of reach for me at this point.
Who’s the Director\Actor\Writer that taught you the most?
In addition to the directors I’ve already mentioned, I’d have to say Herb Rits or Mary Lambert, both took turns directing Chis Isaak's music videos. By the mid 80’s MTV had really nothing on but big hair bands screaming at the camera. The Chris Isaak videos had nuances and story lines I could relate to and were better programming for MTV.
About your job, tell us your biggest dream and your worst nightmare…
My biggest dream would be to attend a premier of one of my films. The worst nightmare…not going to happen because my work has won multiple film festivals around the world. Winning puts pressure on me to do something new and exciting with each release, and I rise to that challenge. Not a scary thing at all.
How important is it to have a good Cinematographic Culture?
You need good chemistry on set to make great art. The director (me) sets the tone and I never let actors get under my skin (even when they are late to a sunrise shoot) because I know I can figure it out in post.
What would you like to improve as a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?
I would like to learn more about how my nice Sony cameras can work with lighting, exposure and LUT…still learning.
A big producer gives you the chance to direct the remake of one of your favorite black and white movies (if you have one)… what film do you choose?
I would like to remake Hitchcock’s Strangers on A Train. I love trains and you can see a lot of train footage in 3 out of my 4 produced music videos
The Film Industry it’s a tough place and sometimes is normal to feel lost and discouraged… who’s the person that keeps you motivated?
I keep myself motivated because making films makes me happy.
Alfred Hitchcock said: "To make a good film you need 3 things: The script, the script, and the script". Do you agree with him?
I did not read these questions through before I started so you must know by now I love Hitchcock’s work. Yes of course I agree with him. When young people ask me about how to get into filmmaking I tell them the fastest way is to write a killer script. Second, make any kind of film that showcases your cinematography and editing skills.
What’s your most ambitious project for the future?
I’d like to do a music video for a song I wrote called Dirty Lipstick. The song is about a guy who is in love with a ‘lady of the night’ and he wants her to quit and be with him only. (Kind of a blues version of the theme in Roxanne by The Police)
Do you think that sadness or at least melancholy lets you be more creative?
I tend to write better songs when I’m feeling down because it gets to some root emotions that stir up the creative process. Two of my music videos come from a dark place; ‘love lost’ and ‘going to prison.’ I think that Love In Vain and Phone Call From Leavenworth are my two most powerful and cinematic videos.
What do you wish for yourself as a Filmmaker\Actor \Writer?
To be able to keep creating because it keeps me young and happy. I really don’t care about financial success with my films, just that people enjoy watching my work.
What is the necessary ingredient to be a good director?
For me, curiousness and childlike wonderment are the critical ingredients in approaching this form of storytelling and being a director. As a cinematographer, I always strive to develop my appreciation for aesthetics and light.
Who is your first and last cinematographic crush?
I enjoy the authentic storytelling and skill level required to be a prominent documentary and cinema vérité filmmaker. The skills needed are visual, aesthetic, and interpersonal skills with the subject.
How old were you when you decided you wanted to be a director?
I was intrigued with storytelling from a young age. As a child, I leaned toward visuals and interesting aesthetics. Of all the arts, I found the visual arts to be the most compelling. My work is split between working as both a DP and a director.
What is a film for you?
For me, film is an opportunity to share critical narratives to entertain and strive towards making a difference. Film can help increase understanding and awareness of important issues.
What do you feel when you're directing and working as a DP?
I feel a sense of freedom when I am in a creative workspace. It is when I allow my obsessive tendency to go into overdrive.
Audrey Hepburn used to say, "Nothing is Impossible." What do you think about that?
With the combination of time, patience, and hard work, a lot can be achieved.
Can you live solely on your passion?
I strive for some level of balance in my life. I try not to allow my creative passions to overtake my other priorities, but it can be challenging to balance these two.
What's more important, talent or luck?
The most important factor between talent and luck is that you create your luck when you work hard to develop your skills and work humbly to continue down the road of refinement.
What's the best compliment you have received about your job?
On occasions, I have received a random phone call about my work and how it has impacted someone, possibly challenging them to think outside of their traditional mindset.
Are you satisfied with your career?
I have had a very satisfying career in the visual arts. Only in the last dozen years have I allowed myself to focus primarily on long-term projects.
What is the worst moment on set?
As a specialist in documentary and cinema vérité, I am always concerned about missing the critical moments in story structure. There is no going back if you miss important aspects of the story. In my line of storytelling, I need to plan to be a witness to the highlights of the story.
How do you feel when a job you've been part of ends?
On my personal films, it has always been difficult for me to end a project. It always seems that it could be a bit better.