UCAN!
VOLUME THREE ISSUE ONE
JANUARY FEBRUARY 2015 YEAR 2 ANNIVERSAY ISSUE
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WinningFilmmakers
STEPPING IT UP! Conversation Piece: A Scholar Tells Us Why We Need to Eliminate the N-Word Forever
Actors Shining Bright Giving Their All at The OFF Actors Contest
COVER: EYEZ OF THE TYGAH PHOTOGRAPHY EYEZOFTHETYGAH@GMAIL.COM
Goings On: OFF Shines for the Second Year at The Poet’s Den Gallery and Theater
Yung Old Headz Sharing Years of Pittsburgh Wisdom and Love with the World
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FROM THE EDITOR
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RANDELL PEARSON SOCIAL
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JACQUELINE MARI ALVARADO
Happy Martin Luther King Day! This national American holiday is the perfect day to drop our Year Two Anniversary issue. Today should remind us all to keep pushing on to reach your artistic goals, no matter how hard it seems. Editing this publication is one of the joys of my life. It’s work. A lot of work. And I smile through it all knowing that I am sharing the accomplishments of so many hardworking artists, content creators, and crew members. The mission of UCAN! Magazine is reflected in its name. We want to remind independent artists that it is possible to live out your dreams. Sometimes you may receive spontaneous blessings. But most of the time, you have to work and work and work before you see even a tiny sign of reward. I personally don’t like that saying about how nothing good comes easy. What I do know is if something is worth having, it’s worth the work to get it. How much do you want to live out your artistic calling? How much do you believe in your artistic gift? KEEP PUSHING! DON’T STOP! NEVER QUIT! IT’S WORTH IT! We also want to hear back from you. We’ve started a new department, Conversation Piece, which explores sensitive topics relevant to what’s going on in the world today. We hope you find it enlightening.
CONTRIBUTING
EDITORS
TRACEY CHANTEL MARSHALL MELISSA GOLDSTEIN SUZETTE STAMM EDITORIAL
PRODUCTION
NAIMA SOLOMON ENTERTAINMENT
DIRECTOR
KAREN Y. BROWN RESEARCH
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DEIDRE GREGORY KEIDRA CAMERON MICHELLE DUBOIS ADVERTISING
DIRECTOR
KIMBERLY ANN RICHARDS
Thank you for your support. We appreciate you more than we can say. Remember, when you’re ever in doubt about whether or not you can make it in your passion business of show, just remember UCAN! #ByArtistsForEveryone Twitter: @UCANMagazine Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UCanMagazine Website: www.UCANMagazine.com
UCAN! MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED SIX TIMES ANNUALLY IN ENGLISH. UCAN! IS REGISTERED AS AN INTERNATIONAL TRADEMARK. COPYRIGHT © 2015 BY PINDARA STUDIOS LLC. COPYRIGHT UNDER UIVERSAL COPYRIGHT CONVENTION. FRONT COVER AND ENTIRE MAGAZINE DESIGN COPYRIGHT @ 2015 BY PEARSON DESIGNS, BROOKLYN NY, USA. REPRODUCTION OF ANY PARTS OF THIS PUBLICATION REQUIRES EXPRESS WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHER. UCAN! ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR UNSOLICITED MANUSCRIPTS, PHOTOGRAPHY OR ARTWORK.
GO I N G S ON HIGHLIGHTS
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THE OCKTOBER FILM FESTIVAL continues to be the hot spot for filmmakers and actors – and anyone who loves indie filmmaking at its finest. Hosted by The Poet’s Den Gallery and Theater in East Harlem, a diverse group of films were screened and enjoyed by many. In its second year, many industry notables attended including Hip Hop celebs Damon Dash, Dana Dane, Murda Mook, and Mikey Jay. There were panels, workshops, and an Actors Contest. Actor Harry J. Lennix of The Blacklist graciously
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accepted his award for leadership. Festival founder Emelyn Stuart and event manager Carl Gilbert continued their good work along with the help of Badami Productions, DPTV, Dre’s House Radio, Empyrean Public Relations, The Mason Firm, Maximeyes Productions, UBCTV Networks, and of course UCAN! Magazine. Many other industry professionals contributed by sharing their knowledge with all who attended. Get ready for Ocktober Film Festival 2015. It only gets better!
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ACTRESS JUSTINE J. HALL DOES THE WORK AND WINS THE PRIZE!
JUSTINE T. HALL is the winner of the actors contest in the 2014 Ocktober Film Festival. She wowed the panel of industry judges with her extraordinary performance. She is also a singer and writer who loves every minute she gets to step on a stage or set. Originally from Maryland, Justine has played some great stage roles such as: Diana Morales in A CHORUS LINE, Sally Bowles in CABARET and Anita in the Off Broadway hit, GIRLS NIGHT: THE MUSICAL. Justine portrayed the Spirit in SISTER, MOTHER, DAUGHTER, WIFE by S. Brian Jones, which received rave reviews. She also appeared in Laura Jaqmin’s PARKERSBURG as Miner #3 in the Estrogenius Festival. Justine also has a role in the hot new web-series MARCELLO. She received a Best Actor nomination for her work in Renee McNeil’s COMING HOME which was featured in the 2014 Midwinter Madness Festival. Currently, Justine is wrapping up the feature film ASCENDANCE by Demetrius Charles, and the short film BELLY OF THE BEAST by Tony Clomax. To stay updated with all the exciting things about to happen as Justine ventures more into directing, producing and writing, please visit her website at www.justinejhall.com
PHOTOS: EYEZ OF THE TYGAH PHOTOGRAPHY@EYEZOFTHETYGAH@GMAIL.COM
ACTORS OKEMA T. MOORE recently celebrated a win for Best Scene in the Ocktober Film Festival’s Actors Contest. She has many years of experience in the business and is also a singer, writer, director and producer. Working in entertainment since childhood, Okema now has her own brand, MOOREthanEnuff, LLC and is the co-founder of the boutique production house Boxed Out Productions, LLC. She recently wrapped shooting of her next film for Boxed Out, MARS & VENUS: OPERATION EQUILIBRIUM which she co-wrote and will co-direct/produce. In addition to all of that responsibility, Okema is also the film’s star. She looks forward to the revival of her role in the successful off-Broadway musical satire VIXENS, in which she co-stars with Melyssa Ford. Okema is set to play the lead role as Myrlie Evers, widow of the civil rights activist Medgar Evars, in a staged reading of THE ACTIVIST’S WIFE. Okema is excited about her past successes which include: four audience choice awards for short plays that she’s co-written and directed/produced, and an Emmy nomination for a single spot that she produced and for which she did voice over. She is also just as jazzed about all that is on the horizon. Okema T. Moore is always pushing, praying and striving to show that she is MOOREthanEnuff! www.IMDB.me/OkemaTMoore http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s2VawOq7HP8
SARAH SCHOOFS is a New York-based actress who loves to find the dark corners in film. She recently filmed as the lead in Sean Mannion’s feature film, MEME. You can see her now in GUT, which was an official selection of over twenty international film festivals, and can be found on Hulu+ and on iTunes. You can also watch Sarah in PHOBIA which was released on DVD this past November, and as Allison in Jeremiah Kipp’s upcoming vampire feature ‘Theresa & Allison’ (currently in pre-production). Official Website: http://www.sarahschoofs.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahtheactor Gut: http://www.gutmovie.com/ Phobia: https://www.facebook.com/PhobiaMovie
ANTONIA MARRERO has been working hard in 2014. She was honored to be part of the 7th annual NBC SCENE SHOWCASE at the Signature Theatre in Manhattan. She placed second by audience votes, for her scene BELLY OF THE BEAST at the 2014 Ocktober Film Festival Actors Contest. TRACKED, a film she starred in and produced, was an official selection of the DOMINICAN FILM FESTIVAL and the INTERNATIONAL PUERTO RICAN HERITAGE FILM FESTIVAL 2014. Antonia is looking forward to making big moves this year producing her play SEXY SHAKESPEARE and auditioning for new projects. www.juankiproductions.com http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwHL3nyvGuQ&feature=youtube_gdata_player Phobia: https://www.facebook.com/PhobiaMovie
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E. GEORGE PERRY, a Brooklyn resident from Chicago, has appeared in various print, commercial and film projects (credited as Ernest Perry). Upcoming projects include work with the drama ministry of EMMANUEL BAPTIST CHURCH, ACTS of EBC; live performances and videos with the AMERICAN CANDY SKETCH COMEDY TROUPE; and reoccurring roles in two web-series -THE BLOCK and 3L (LIVE, LAUGH and LOVE). He is always grateful to God for family and friends and their continuous support in his efforts to entertain and enlighten others. Join him on this mission and get the latest updates by showing love at Facebook.com/EGeorgePerry, following on Instagram (EGeorgePerry) and checking out E George Perry clips on YouTube. https://www.facebook.com/EGeorgePerry http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvm4qC9mY6IOUNVRaxh_f3HrtTryM5fIX http://instagram.com/egeorgeperry
DANIEL O’SHEA grew up in the infamous Queensbridge Housing projects in Queens, New York. For his first professional acting job, Daniel beat out 800 contestants for the lead in the feature film FLIGHT OF THE SPRUCE GOOSE. Success followed and Daniel began to make his mark as a versatile character actor having the good fortune to work with some of the greatest directors and actors in the business. Recent projects: Capo Domenick Caligula in BROKEN ANGELS directed by Tony Clomax, TV series THE FAMIGLIA. Two film projects with Rahaman Studios: SNITCHES and EDEN. www.actordanieloshea.com JIMMY BROOKS was born in Liberia, West Africa. He was the second child after his older sister Jimmette. Up until age thirteen, he and his family lived between Liberia and Cote D’Ivoire. He is fluent in French and skilled in both Liberian and Nigerian accents. Last year he was featured in a Superbowl commercial for BEST BUY with Amy Poehler and co-starred on BLUE BLOODS. He can also be seen in a promo spot for Oxygen’s MY CRAZY LOVE. Brooks received a Best Supporting Actor win at the 2012 A.C. Cinefest for his work in the short CURVEBALL. He also selected for the 2014 Ocktober Film Festival’s Actors Contest. Like many of today’s young actors, Jimmy is creating work for himself and is currently writing his first short to be titled, I’M ON THE CORNER. He gives special thanks to award winning filmmaker Shabazz Ray for always being an inspiration on everything life and career. Website: www.jimmybrooksjr.com IMDB: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm4550648/?ref_=fn_al_nm_2
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“Just because we have the right to say whatever we want doesn’t make saying it right.” This is a good time in American history. We are coming together as a nation to say BLACK LIVES MATTER. Of course all lives matter, but America has had a turbulent relationship with its black citizens. The mainstream population is being educated with the help of recent movies like SELMA and 12 YEARS A SLAVE. It’s my hope that others in entertainment will join the movement. The way they speak can play a big part. I love Chris Rock’s work. It’s sharp, funny, fearless, and spontaneous. Many times I’ve heard him offer a comical perspective on very serious situations. His wit comes from experiences close to his own truth. In a recent TV interview where he was promoting his movie TOP FIVE, Chris was asked if he likes being a celebrity. “I love being a celebrity,” he quipped. “It’s as close as I get to be a white person.” I laughed heartily. By injecting funniness in his response, he gave us something to think about. Chris has a brilliant way of painting ideas and visual pictures with his unique sense of humor. Nevertheless there is one part of Chris’ humor that isn’t amusing to me. It is his never-ending use of the word “nigger.” While watching TOP FIVE, I was so turned off by its constant use that I actually tuned out and took a nap. I was completely unable to connect with other aspects of his movie. I feel comfortable speaking for some people (especially for people of my generation), when I say the word “nigger,” or the more recent adaptation, “nigga,” is offensive, insensitive and not at all funny. That word “nigger” was used specifically to degrade and demean. Adopting the language of an oppressor, in my opinion, only gives it authority. Even though it is only a word, the venom and hatred behind its origin still rings in the ears of those of us who painfully remember when, not so long ago, it was an accepted part of everyday vocabulary. By allowing that word to become a part my speech I would be validating the false belief that people of African descent are inferior and less than human. Another reason to stop using the word “nigger” is because using it completely disrespects those who fought long and hard for civil rights and equality. That fight was dangerous, and countless people risked their physical safety to eliminate the use of this hate-filled word. And they won, only to have future generations dismiss such an outstanding victory either by ignorance or simply not caring. The indignities, and sometimes death, people suffered on the front lines to demand respect deserves to be honored. Chris Rock seems to have forgotten this. He is too young to remember the battle. Adam Clayton Powell, a Congressman from Harlem, New York was one of many people who worked to eradicate racial inequities. Among these inequalities was the lack of respect he saw by white congressmen who openly used the word “nigger” on the floor of the House of Representatives. Yes, that’s right, on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, to call blacks “niggers” was an open and accepted practice! Fifty years later as I sat in the Magic Johnson Theater (in the very same district which Powell represented), I wondered what he would think of how regularly and openly the word is used today. I’m using TOP FIVE as an example, but unfortunately the word “nigger” is still widely used not just in this movie. You hear it on the streets, in our schools, in the workplace, and mostly by black and Latino people. While teaching a class at Seattle University, I tried explaining to a diverse group of students why they should not use the word “nigger.” My actual use of the word rather than my saying “the N-word” was enough to upset some of the students. Interestingly enough and to my surprise, it was the African American students who were the most upset by its usage. In entertainment there seems to be a great disconnect from history. We must correct that. In 2007 at a BLACK ENTERPRISE event, publisher Earl Graves promptly unplugged the microphone when comedian Eddie Griffin peppered his routine with the word “nigger.” Mr. Graves said that he would not allow the culture to go “backwards.” He received a standing ovation. With the recent tragedy in Paris, we’ve been reminded of our right to free speech. In America the First Amendment of our Constitution guarantees us this right. However, just because we have the right to say whatever we want doesn’t make saying it right. By all means go see TOP FIVE, if you aren’t affected by the word “nigger.” It’s filled with funny performances from many of today’s famous comedians. Viewers also seem to enjoy the storyline and the acting talent. If people of African descent are using “nigger,” I suggest that perhaps we consider using another word that we make up ourselves rather than a word given to us out of hatred and disdain. To stop using it will also educate other ethnic groups who are ignorant to its terrible origin. It is time to delete the word “nigger” and any adaptation of it from our vocabulary forever. I welcome your comments. BILLIE ANN DAVIS RECEIVED HER DOCTORATE OF EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP FROM SEATTLE UNIVERSITY. SHE IS A NOTED PUBLIC SPEAKER AND LIFE COACH. IN 2001 SHE WAS INVITED TO BE A VISITING SCHOLAR AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CAPETOWN AND THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WITWATERSRAND, JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA WHERE SHE DID EXTENSIVE RESEARCH ON RACIAL RECONCILIATION. HER PAPER, “TELLING STORIES AND UNVEILING THE BURDEN OF RACE,” WAS PRESENTED AT COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY, AND THE TWO ABOVE-MENTIONED SOUTH AFRICAN UNIVERSITIES.— SHE IS PRESENTLY WRITING A BOOK TENTATIVELY ENTITLED, EVOLUTION OF RACIAL CONSCIOUSNESS IN THE U.S FROM THE 1800S TO PRESENT.
Spreading Pittsburgh LOVE to the World TRACEY CHANTEL MARSHALL
winning filmmakers This Pittsburgh native Hip Hop group Yung Old Headz (Y.O.H.) has been creating a buzz throughout the Pittsburg, Maryland and Washington areas for quite some time. They are establishing their brand and movement to bring back the real essence of Hip Hop and what it’s truly about and are paving a path to being the next best breakout artist out of the Steel City. Their ability of effortlessly delivering heartfelt to hardcore lyrics is grasping the attention and support from both the younger and older generations. Fans are intrigued by the very melodic and realness of their music as well as their rapid fire rap delivery. Having produced a total of nine albums and appearing on over 30 mixtapes and CDs is proof that Y.O.H. is on their grind and is showing all signs of taking the rap world by storm.
Members include: TNT - Emcee, producer, DJ, Hip Hop choreographer, videographer and business owner. He has appeared in major box office movies such as John Singleton’s ABDUCTED and ONE FOR THE MONEY starring Katherine Higel. Mello - Emcee, producer and DJ. He is said to be a lyrical beast. Both he and TNT have been called the most explosive and dangerous emcees in the game. Newly joined member DTaz has been in the hip hop arena for over five years and brings a younger, hyper energy to the group. With their charismatic “in your face” style performances that keep their audiences engaged, and individual unique flow that’s giving a new meaning to the phrase “Real Emcee,” each member is proving he is able to hold his own weight when it comes to lyrical deliverance. With their rapidly growing fan base and success, Y.O.H. is surely paving a path to being branded as credible Hip Hop emcees out of Pittsburgh, PA. Website: www.theyoh.com Twitter: @yungoldheadz New Released Single “THINKING ABOUT YOU” Now Available for Download Worldwide PR Inquires: AccessToArisingArtists@gmail.com
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AN EXTRAORDINARY LEADER
We’re so excited to get to sit down with the creator of the hot television series, SOUTH OF BROOKLYN. The show, while in its early stages, has already proven to be edgy, fast-paced, hip, and at times blunt with the way it delivers a message. Audience members resoundingly chose SOUTH OF BROOKLYN as the WINNER in the Best Web Series category at the 2014 Ocktober Film Festival. Sura Khan, unlike the show’s direct nature, is easygoing, wise, and very humble in how he leads and sets an example for others to follow. UCAN! What was your inspiration for writing SOUTH OF BROOKLYN? SURA KHAN I had a conversation with John W. Arrington that started this ball rolling. Having the opportunity to touch on subject
matters like the drug Molly in the storyline and bring awareness to the viewers was truly inspirational. In addition to that meeting I would say my pure passion for the arts and the challenges that came along with scripting my first television series, and God of course, these were the driving forces.
UCAN! What was more gratifying, being the writer on the project or a director? SURA KHAN Both to a degree! Being a writer because it was a personal relationship between me and my computer, and we were
alone. And directing because it gave me the opportunity to be hands-on with some very talented individuals.
UCAN! What is it about SOUTH OF BROOKLYN that makes you most proud? SURA KHAN I’m proud that this journey led us to a win at the 2014 Ockober Film Festival. I’m proud of what it developed into
and the hard work of all involved, especially the actors, all 64 of them who were cast in various roles, some big and some small. I was also proud of Tarell “Hannibull” Williams, his two year-old son, and actor John Reese for excellent portrayals in the burn scene. Everyone did a great job, especially actors Kamel Goffin, Mysonne, Jenelle Simone, Damion Lee, Reg Hollywood and Marc John Jefferies who performed such intense scenes in crazy weather conditions.
UCAN! How long was the shoot? What were the good and bad parts
of it?
SURA KHAN We’ve been filming for like a year or so, close to six
episodes but decided to make some changes in casting. So in addition to what we shot in the sizzle reel, we did have some great footage in the can that became very useful. The good part was that it finally came together. The bad part was that it could have been much easier for us all if egos were checked at the door. Also having to pour water on a two year-old in the dead of winter’s 30 degree weather was reason for concern. With good directing and choreography of the scene, we were able to pull it off safely.
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UCAN! What was the budget? How did you raise the money? SURA KHAN Those figures are still being calculated as we speak. It was a collective effort on the parts of John W. Arrington, Tarell
“Hannibull” Williams, David Quinones and Alastair Christopher that provided us the resources at various points in production to bring this project to light.
UCAN! What is the passion you feel being in the filmmaking business? SURA KHAN I am sincerely passionate about filmmaking and the creative process. Having the ability to put words in the mouths
of actors and navigate circumstances and events within a storyline is awesome. Here’s the real kicker, I get to decide who’s rich and who’s poor, who lives and who dies. That’s really cool.
UCAN! What sacrifices did you have to make for this series to be completed? SURA KHAN Being in a position of leadership,
whether you’re recognized or not, required important skills like patience, being humble, [being a] good listener and taking the unnecessary hits when they come. I could have chosen to do many things with my time and talents during this process and I chose SOUTH OF BROOKLYN. My time, skills and focus was my sacrifice.
UCAN! Who was special to you in helping to get SOUTH OF BROOKLYN made? SURA KHAN Tarell “Hannibull” Williams came on
as the lead (Supreme Garrett) in the pilot and ended up becoming an executive producer as well. He really understood my vision and was willing to take the necessary risk. I really liked that about him. The entire creative team; John Arrington, David Quinones, Ayana Rivera, Alastair Christopher, Glamm Ceo and her team and the entire cast and support base. They were all an important part of this process and SOUTH OF BROOKLYN is the result.
UCAN! What can you say to someone to inspire them to keep on keeping on, even when times get tough? SURA KHAN I would say it’s all a test to your endurance and ability to stay afloat without the security of a net underneath you. There is only one you, and no one can tell your story better than you can. Understand that your presence and works really matter. Know the difference between your talents, passions and gifts. We can all become talented with enough time and dedication, and we can all become passionate about what we do. But gifts are from God! So when someone or something comes against you and your gifts, they are in other words coming against God. Know the difference and continue to stand firm in your place. Like a twisting kaleidoscope He moves us all in turn. UCAN! What are your future plans as a writer and producer? Any special events coming up that we can promote? SURA KHAN Well I am writing for other producers and enjoy that process. I’m also working on other films and TV shows, as well as writing a book. So 2015-16 looks very bright. I can’t wait to begin principal photography on season one of SOUTH OF BROOKLYN which is in process as we speak. So look out world, primetime is next!
We appreciate Sura Khan for giving us his time. Talking with him is always a pleasure. For more information on this extraordinary gentleman, and this extraordinary project, go to: Facebook: www.facebook.com/Surakhan Facebook: www.facebook.com/South of Brooklyn (fan page-updates) Instagram: VSE1SURKHAN Twitter: @Surakhan11 www.brandyourself.com/Surakhan
PHOTOS: EYEZ OF THE TYGAH PHOTOGRAPHY@EYEZOFTHETYGAH@GMAIL.COM
GIVING TO OTHERS IN FILM AND MUSIC
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HISHAM ‘XS’ ABUL FOTOUH (opposite, near left) is a multi faceted artist. Heavily involved in the music industry, he works tirelessly to showcase others. He is also an executive producer of the award winning film THE BREAKING POINT which touches audiences and industry professionals with its message of redemption. THE BREAKING POINT won for Best Feature Film at the 2014 Ocktober Film Festival. Hisham was greatly inspired by the film’s director, James Hunter. Mr. Hunter, who was actually shot in his back, has a very impressive IMDb profile despite the challenges he’s gone through in his life. Hisham credits him as being the main reason for his decision to invest in this film. “He never gave up on his dreams and has amazed me with his passion and dedication and how he succeeds against all odds,” Hisham told us. To meet such a shining example of perseverance and fortitude is a blessing in this business or anywhere for that matter. Discipline of that type is just one of the qualities needed to be successful in the entertainment business, as there are always many sacrifices that are required – especially of an executive producer. It is true that taking a financial risk can indeed bring about financial gain in the long run. However, monetary success is only gained after taking risks. Those risks don’t always work out, and when they do it is after many hours worked to complete a production. And unlike being an artist, there is no satisfaction of getting to perform. For Hisham, there was a different kind of satisfaction. “The better part of being an executive producer,” he explains “is the joy of completing a film for the world to enjoy and get a good message out of it.” These days, Hisham is in early development of a short film based on his music trilogy HEART OF THE DESERT, a project that discusses racially mixed couples. It’s based on the true story of himself and his girlfriend. He is Egyptian and she is Caucasian. Together they overcame discrimination from their families and communities. “In light of everything going on lately, I want to spread the message that the heart does not see race, faith or culture. The heart just feels another’s heart beat.” He is also teaming up once again with James Hunter in development of a faith-based film that Mr. Hunter will direct. As for the music side, Hisham and his partners have created a new music event called THE GIFTED SHOWCASE which happens every two months. At this event, singers compete and are judged by a panel of industry insiders. The winner gets a cash prize. The next showcase is on January 26th, 8:00 p.m. at Le Reve. I myself have attended a showcase event, and it was a wonderful experience! So, what does Hisham say to inspire others? Once again he credits James Hunter who uses the quote, “Teamwork makes the dream work.” Hisham’s advice, “Follow your dreams, assemble a team that is as passionate and dedicated as you are, take action and praise God.” He also adds, “Most importantly, don’t ever let anyone bring you down. There will always be obstacles, but the exciting challenge is overcoming those obstacles.” For more information on THE BREAKING POINT, check out its IMDb page at: The Breaking Point on IMDG http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2966848/?ref_=nv_sr_4
SHABAZZ RAY is beyond ambitious. He is a working actor, which requires major work in and of itself. He is also an award winning filmmaker who wrote, directed, produced, and starred in THE LONG SHORT, for which he won the Audience Choice award at the Ocktober Film Festival 2014. The idea for THE LONG SHORT came from past events, family, friends and short films that Shabazz previously directed. With an impressive budget of just under a million dollars, the film took six months to shoot. Having given over his entire life to the film’s making, Shabazz quickly said there was nothing at all negative about the experience. His sacrifices included lots of things that people outside of the entertainment business consider near and dear. “Everything was sacrificed, no partying, no useless spending, no hanging out, even [no] romance at times,” Shabazz says. Heading up a production team requires nothing less than hard work. Shabazz credits many people with having helped him through. “My beautiful cast Jimmy Brooks, Kimberley Peterson, Michelle Lamelza,, Zoe Kypuros, many others, too,” he told us before taking a breath. “Also music composer Naoko Ono, my Uncle J, Vance Allen, Thundia Bickham, Keke LeBron, Valdi Belton, Angel 11:11, Noemi Cas-
PHOTOS: EYEZ OF THE TYGAH PHOTOGRAPHY@EYEZOFTHETYGAH@GMAIL.COM
HEADING FOR THE BIG TIME
tro-Finstein, Luis Gonzalez, Gary Sinensky, Sandy Delarosa, Yvonne Frazier, Barbara Ray and so many more. These people were the fabric that held together my project, working as crew, helping out with locations….. If I missed someone, judge it to my mind - not my heart.” Shabazz has decided to take on lots of work in the future. In front of and behind the camera. He plans to make a feature film every one or two years, and he continues to act in both film and television. In fact, he just shot an episode of PERSON OF INTEREST which will air in the near future. Check your local listings for the specific day and time the show airs. In New York, it comes on Tuesday nights at 10pm on the CBS network. How in the world does Shabazz keep up with it all? He almost makes it sound easy. Being in show business is enjoyable ninety percent of the time. But it’s never easy. “The most important thing you can ever do is to continue to move forward and stay focused on your ultimate goal, your ideal. Even when things aren’t going as planned, march forward,” he answers. http://TheLongShortMovie.com http://ShabazzRay.com
PHOTOS: EYEZ OF THE TYGAH PHOTOGRAPHY@EYEZOFTHETYGAH@GMAIL.COM
TERRON JONES is a winning filmmaker. Not just because he won the Best Short Film award at the Ocktober Film Festival, but because he decided to take control of his acting future. Instead of waiting for work to trickle his way, he wrote, directed, and starred in WHEN IT ALL FALLS DOWN. Shot at a break-neck speed during two – yes, two – days, the film was funded by Terron and his producing partners Elliott “Lee” Cowart and Kalon Jackson of Blue Rose Films LLC who funded half of the project. In addition to funding, friends also provided inspiration and story ideas. Filming during the hot, humid summer was an experience that gave Terron and his team lots of opportunities to prove their love for the filmmaking business. “The teamwork and everyone working toward one common goal was awesome. The heat was definitely a problem. We had to shoot in an apartment with the air conditioner off,” he says. Terron is not just stopping there. He plans to pen a feature-length script and a play in the near future. As is UCAN! Magazine custom, we asked him what he’d say to inspire others. He is a man of very few words who gets straight to the point. “Just believe in yourself. If you want it. You have to go get it.” And that is exactly what he did. www.terronjones.com www.youtube.com/normaxroslyn
WINNER BEST DOCUMENTARY OCKTOBER FILM FESTIVAL 2014
America’s Icon of Peace and Progression UCAN! MAGAZINE CELEBRATES THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
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