UP CLOSE WITH HOWARD AND CHRISTEL GIBSON

Finding Purpose

In the 1970’s, Christel and Howard’s father handed them an 8mm camera with the hope that they would begin to create memories that would last a lifetime. “There was always a camera in our home, and I cannot imagine a life without it,” says Christel

At the ages of seven and eight Christel and Howard were filming their own short films. Christel recalled the time in the second grade where her teacher wrote a letter to her parents. Her teacher stated that Christel was one of the most gifted writers she had ever met. She was convinced that Christel would become a famous writer one day For years to come, Christel focused on writing and Howard concentrated on mastering the camera. They began their film careers as teenagers working as production assistants on movie sets. Christel recalled her days of offering her services for hair and makeup on the set as well as casting actors.

“Film is a jump in business, it's all about your attitude and altitude,” says Howard. As a team, Christel and Howard work so well together that the film crew would call them twins There is a strong trust factor between the two that allows them to work together with great ease.

Getting Started

Christel wrote her first screenplay, A Trail of Tears at the age of 20 Her screenplay led to offers from Warner Bros and Disney. She also received a scholarship to Disney’s Writers Program. She went on to write three self-published novels under the pen name Crystal Michaels. One of her novels ranked #1 on Amazon in its genre for eight weeks. Her radio show the Crystal Michaels Show with co-host, comedienne and actress Queen Aisha ran from 2012-2014. Christel went on to direct music videos and became the CEO and founding member of Keletiv Films, Inc. She concentrated on writing and directing her own short films which included The Birthday Wish and Jay’s Truth which brought awareness to domestic violence Her other short films include Professional Habit, Jomo & Mimi, and A Trail of Tears.

After leaving Kelektiv Films, Inc., Christel’s passion for writing and directing was noticed by producers who gave her the platform to write and direct BETHER’s first original film, Her Only Choice. It’s a heartfelt story about a woman faced with the decision of receiving treatment for breast cancer or forgoing it to ensure the safety of her unborn child. Her Only Choice was nominated by the International Press Academy Satellite award for Best TV Movie 2018. Further, this film was loved by the viewers hence it then premiered on BET. Christel is also an Associate Producer on the upcoming BET film Angrily Ever After.

In the late 1990’s, Christel stepped out of the industry to focus on her newlywed husband and raising her children. She is a mother who is dedicated to her children, one of whom is special needs. In 2011, Christel returned to the industry and began writing novels and scripts and directing films.

Howard is passionate about bringing knowledge, support, and resources to the creative minds of underserved minorities worldwide He has held C-Level positions in branding for two technology companies, where he was responsible for cultivating and negotiating strategic alliances: building a value of over $90 million Howard has a wide range of experience working with large brands as a creative director— Disney, Viacom, Sony, Nike, Mercedes Benz, and Time Warner, to name some.

In the 1990’s, Howard shot and produced 100 music videos for top billboard recording artists. As a young minority director, there were limited things he could do. Howard focused on record labels with the intent to deliverhigh quality content. “Music videos are always different, always a challenge,” says Howard.

“Take what you learned from one video to the next ” Later, Howard produced four DVD films and documentaries, grossing over $100 million in sales. He also ran a successful management and production company developing TV series and films

Delivering A Message

When asked what message is being shared with their audiences through their films, Christel responds, “Each film is different ”

Christel wrote the TV series Double Cross to bring awareness to sex trafficking, which is a very sensitive topic. She shared that it was challenging to write about the subject with an entertainment value so that the audience would continue to see the episodes. “This topic can be so hard on the soul, so I had to put other stories around it,” Christel reveals. “The importance of family and perseverance is in the overall messaging of this series ”

Currently, Double Cross has three seasons, with the fourth season scheduled to be aired in April 2023 on ALLBLK, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and WE tv Double Cross won the IPVFF TV Spotlight award for 2022. Further, Christel wrote the entire script for the movie Christmas Deja Vu in four days. This movie is about faith and believing in your talents and pushing forward regardless of the challenges faced This feel-good holiday movie stars Loretta Devine and Amber Riley on major networks such as BET + and is on its way to Hulu.

Overcoming Challenges

Christel and Howard are living proof that it is possible to manifest your dreams. The siblings experienced hardships even as their careers developed. Howard’s health was compromised when he had a double stroke. “I was comatose and paralyzed for a while,” Howard tells us. “It was a reboot for me. I am blessed to be able to recover from it.”

Christel was diagnosed with thyroid cancer while she was pregnant with twins. “I decided to go through with surgery even though there were so many risks involved with my pregnancy God blessed me and the twins My faith got me through it,” says Christel.

Having experienced these challenges, Christel and Howard made it a point to share their knowledge with others They have held several workshops for attendees to learn best practices in the film industry. In addition, they have provided many opportunities for family members to learn various roles within the film industry and casted family members in their TV series and movies. “Opportunities must be met with preparation,” states Christel. “You have to be comfortable with God’s timing.”

Christel’s path crossed with wellknown actress, singer and director, Phylicia Rashad. Phylicia read Christel’s screenplay A Trail of Tears, and told her, “You are so talented, it just takes one person to give you an opportunity. You are that talented ”

“But, it was all God’s timing,” Christel mentions.

WHAT’S NEXT

The Dem Gibsons Film principals will be releasing Season 4 of Double Cross in April 2023. They will be writing and producing season 5 in July 2023 In addition, Dem Gibsons Films has been greenlit for another TV series Conspirators to be aired on ALLBLK. Filming will start in 2023 in Atlanta, GA.

Christel Gibson- Executive Producer/Creator/Writer:

Washington, DC. Native Christel Gibson began her film career as a teenager working as a Production Assistant. She wrote her very first screenplay A Trail of Tears at the age of 20 which received offers from Warner Bros and Disney Disney also offered her a scholarship to their Writer's Program. She went on to write 3 self-published novels under the pen name Crystal Michaels. Her second Novel ranked #1 on Amazon in its genre for 8 weeks Her radio show the Crystal Michaels show with co-host , comedienne and actress Queen Aisha ran from 20122014. She was a Red-Carpet correspondent for Mad Flava TV from 2012-2015. Christel went on to Direct Music Videos and became the CEO and founding member of Keletiv Films INC, where she concentrated on Writing and Directing her own short films, to include The Birthday Wish and Jay's Truth which brought awareness to Domestic Violence. Her other short films include Professional Habit, Jomo & Mimi, and A Trail Of Tears. After leaving Kelektiv Films INC, her passion for Writing and Directing was noticed by Producers who gave her the platform to Write and Direct BETHER's first Original Film; Her Only Choice. It's a heartfelt story about a woman faced with the decision of receiving treatment for Breast Cancer or forgoing it to ensure the safety of her unborn child. Her film was loved so much by the audience that it was then premiered on BET. Christel is also an Associate Producer on the upcoming BET film Angrily Ever After She has volunteered with the charity My GirlFriend's House in Washington, DC where she assists young girls in the inner city with writing, acting and directing their own stage plays for the community. Christel is a mother who is dedicated to her children, one of whom is special needs. She believes that God gave every person a specific talent and its up to them to nourish it. Christel gives credit to Dr. Maya Angelou who inspired her to believe that she could be a dedicated Mother and still fulfill her dreams as a writer She wrote this poem in honor of Dr. Angelou on the day of her death.

My Ode to Maya by Christel Gibson

More than the words she wrote, Dr. Maya Angelou gave me hope She taught me to believe that which is for me, I would receive. Even though there were kids to tend, and clothes to mend. Rise up you phenomenal woman she said, don't you quiver or dare bend. Stand up straight, unlock the gate You hold the key, let them all see Your beauty unfold, you've broken the mold. Of the Mother, the Sister, the Woman, the Listener. The Daughter, the Lover unparalleled to any other. Do not hide your face, or your curvy shape. Your kinky hair, wear it with flair. Walk the walk and talk the talk Jump higher than expected, grace was resurrected. Just for you and all you do. When the storm comes, you will face the conundrum. For the free bird leaps, and the caged bird weeps. You are no imprisoned Canary, you are extraordinary Pick up your pen, write from within Put the babies down for a spell, you have a story to tell. And dear child, when you tell it, you tell it well. When it comes down to the truth, I am the proof. Of a life changed by the eloquent Maya. And for that I aspire to reach higher Rest in peace beloved one, It's my turn to run. Pass me the baton, and I will carry on. Spreading the good words of hope, on the air I will float. I will rise, I will sing, I will never forget a thing. I will always remember, Dr. Maya Angelou in all her beauty and splendor!

Howard Gibson-Executive Producer/Director: A native of Washington, DC and raised in Prince George's County; Howard Gibson has been seasoned in the transformative culture of hip-hop since 1992 Howard has a wide range of experience working with large brands as a creative director: Disney, Viacom, Sony, Nike, Mercedes Benz, and Time Warner to name a few. In the 90's Howard shot and or produced 100 music videos for top billboard recording. Later, he produced four DVD films and documentaries; grossing over $100 million a successful d production ping TV series d 2000's and with ging more into shifted gears; interactive pany. Held the sory Partner Over vate equity firm; rging media e also held Cn branding for companies, and of cultivating and tegic alliances; of over $90 is passionate to edge, the support es to creative erved minorities od’s timing,”

Gil

Nelson-Director productions which were produced by Timeless Entertainment LLC which he owns with his wife Pam Nelson Their production company has put up several stage productions which by the grace of GOD have all sold out with wave reviews; some have even been nominated for Play of the Year by Play Mag. Timeless Entertainment produces Stage plays, TV shows and Films They have a couple of films coming out this year, one titled “Get Check” which is making its round in the film festival circuit and the Christmas film “ A Family Affair Holiday Edition”. They have another stage production coming up in August of this year. Gill is also one of the Directors of the hit TV Show Double Cross with airs of ALLBK network and WETV. Gill gives all his credit to God for he knows that none of this would not be possible without him.

Shanté Gabriel is a Producer and screenwriter, she began her career 25 years ago working as a production assistant on several films, such as Enemy Of The State, Mercury Rising and Murder At 1600. Soon after she would move into an assistant director position on music videos for Chuck D’s and several others. These connections lead Shanté into event and concert production, as she produced for many artists namely Aaliyah,Beyoncé, DL Hughley and many others. As an executive for marketing and promotions company D Media she produced events and advertisements for Adidas, Hewlett Packard and The State of MD. After meeting with Senegal’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cheikh Tidiane Gadio, an encounter which influenced

Micah Tait Associate Producer for Double Cross. Apart of the Dem Gibsons family. Micah has worked on several seasons of double cross, and numerous commercials. Also, she has been Christel Gibson’s Director Assistant on Christmas Deja Vu, and an upcoming movie for BET.

Ashley A. WilliamsErica Cross

Ashley A. Williams was born and raised in Miami, Florida to Caribbean parents Julett Williams, a schoolteacher, and Delroy Williams, a factory production manager. Growing up with education as a priority in her household, she graduated high school in the top 10% of her class and continued her studies at Florida State University, majoring in Pre-Med with hopes of becoming a Cardio-Thoracic Surgeon, before getting bit by the acting bug in sophomore year.

While at Florida State, with one of the top film schools at her fingertips, Ashley was able to access an immense amount of knowledge while volunteering and participating in several of the student projects and continued to audition and participate in independent films being filmed in the Tallahassee and Miami area.

Post-graduation, Ashley moved to Los Angeles to continue her acting career Her past projects include BET’s Movie of the Week, Frat Brothers, and independent films such as Love Triangle, as well as the critically acclaimed digital series Black Boots. You can also catch her on YouTube Red's original series Ryan Hansen Solves Crimes on Television which starred Emmy Award Winner Samira Wiley. Other prominent films have landed her leading roles alongside Brad James in the romantic comedy His, Hers, & the Truth and Robinne Lee in BET’s Holiday comedy, Holly

Day, psychological thriller Red Winter with retired NFL Vetera Vernon Davis, and most recentl starring alongside Omar Epps, Vanessa Bell Calloway, and Will Catlett in The Devil You Know, directed by Charles Murray and executive produced by Epps and Michael Ealy.

You can also catch Ashley starri AllBlk’s #1 rated, scripted origin show Double Cross, with season & 3 now streaming. With a stron passion for storytelling, we kno sky is the limit for Williams in a her future artistic endeavors

Jokia’s

To capture the heart of God while simultaneously compelling others to an intimate relationship with Christ, Jokia is in a nutshell A guitar playing singer and songwriter, she aims to deliver a sound that makes an impression on every heart that lends their ear to her message through music. This can be seen quite evidently in her debut single “Yahweh ” , which garnered the type of traction that is uncommon, yet impressive, for a release not supported by a record label or major marketing.

James Jamison has been an actor since 2014. He started out as an extra in films starting back in the early 2000s. Goose Creek Story and Couples Night were two appearances as an extra. In 2014, he starred in two web series, Walk In My Shoes and Circle of Love. Now he's playing a day player in the hit TV series, DoubleCross. His interests and ability as an actor has grown considerably in the past year and his future looks promising Stay tuned

Prior to the digital release of “Yahweh ” , Jokia offered a soulstirring performance of the song at Marquis Boone’s 2015 Discovered conference that landed her a demo recording deal. Since then, and with much dedication to her craft and devotion to God, Jokia’s ministry continues to gain visibility, amazing opportunities and platforms to minister through music, and the greatest gift of all: lives changed

There is more than music to Jokia. She is also a proud wife (to Benjamin Williams) and a mother of 2 amazing daughters.

Judi JohnsonRobin Cross

Jamaican-born American actress Judi Johnson is a rising star in Hollywood, known for her & versatility and captivating performances on stage and screen.

Growing up in Prince Georges County, Maryland, further ignited her interest to pursue a career in acting.

Since then, Judi's talent and dedication to her craft have earned her a reputation as a fierce and dynamic performer, and she has worked with some of the industry's most respected directors and actors. She has appeared in a variety of roles, from comedic to dramatic, and has received critical acclaim for her performances

Judi is an exciting and talented actress with a bright future ahead of her. She is poised to make a major impact in Hollywood and inspire others to pursue their dreams

Pam Nelson -Dr. Nelson

Pam Nelson has been married for twenty five years to Gill Nelson and they own Timeless Entertainment a production company. She is also a mother of two Gill and Demi She was the owner of DemiMode Hair Studio for 23 years and although she is still pursuing her career in the beauty industry her love for acting and writing is still a passion of hers. She has acted in several movies and tv shows but her real passion is theater Pam and her husband Gill Nelson has created and written several productions and have brought 9 sold out plays to the DMV area. Pam is currently an actress on Double Cross Season 4 and praying for more to come

Redaric WilliamsD'Andre

Redaric Williams is an American television, theatre, and film actor. He lived and trained in London, UK, before moving to New York City to continue his training He also spent time working in South Africa, between both Cape Town and Johannesburg. Williams was under contract with CBS/Sony Pictures Television on the Young and the Restless from 2012 until 2014, in which he was nominated for an NAACP image award in 2014.

Redaric recently played the leading role of Walter Lee Younger in a reprisal of the award winning theatre production "A Raisin in the Sun" and has guest stared on FOX's hit series "Lucifer" as well as BET's "The Quad" and is starting in multiple other films and tv shows Redaric is currently based in Los Angeles, California