Shooting a Short Film in a Pandemic

This short film is dedicated to me, Kristina Thomas, someone who’s come a long way in learning to love - even recently.

When I was 26, I wanted to go to the 2013 INAUGURATION. I decided to fly to New York first before taking a train to DC. I realized I was madly in love with MY GUY FRIEND OF EIGHT YEARS and wanted to confess to him in person while in New York. But when I landed, I ended up staying with my friend in Brooklyn for TWO DAYS while the guy I flew to New York for was too busy to meet up with me.

For two days, I called, I texted to see when we could meet. He was busy and was trying to figure out a way for us to meet. The day I was supposed to leave, I told the guy to meet me at the train station. I waited an hour and took the last train out that night to DC. He called me. I answered and he said how sorry he was he couldn't meet me.

Crying profusely, I told him how I felt but not how I was in love him. I just couldn’t tell him over the phone. I asked him through tears, "Why didn't you fight for us?" His reply, "YOU WEREN'T WORTH FIGHTING FOR." Click! My phone read "Network Error."

THIS IS MY STORY

...with a few exaggerations and added characters to tell the story of how important it is to tell someone you love them, no matter what. Some have dubbed this a coming of age, slice of life story that is a "LOVE JONES" meets "BEFORE SUNRISE" feature. I've seen so many love stories always end with a happy ending but I wanted to try something different. Tell the truth about some unhappy endings, and explore the intricacies and complexities of being in love in your 20's, mentally and physically. This would be my first feature.

Right now - I got to shoot the short concept version and I have so many emotions right now. Thank gawd for Kristi Lugo (Casting Director) stepping into my life and helping me find two leads to bring this story to life. Here’s one picture from the day.

My actors @an.dri.aa and #VinceWashington couldn’t of been a better Kory and Frank for my short concept #WorthIt. As some of you know, Im still working to get a producer and funding together to finally make this 6 year in the making feature come to life. My crew was phenomenal, my DP @dp.tanishamoreno hella talented, my amazing assistant director @shereanjones, and hardworking producer @ayaregal - my key female trio who really rocked with me.

I’m overwhelmed with so much joy, gratitude and overall…there’s just a lot of emotions man. A big thank you to all who really came through and didn’t drop the ball when I needed you most. I sincerely felt that 😭 (I.e. @iamjoecarroll with the Bible/prayer texts )

Now off to postproduction and logging off!
👋🏽