What made you pursue film making?

It actually was a natural progression.  I am a theater guy, but once I started writing my own productions, I could see some of them as films.  Then Covid hit, which closed all my stage plays from live performances.  This jump started my film making process.

Tell everyone about your upcoming film “Attacked From All Angles?

Thanks for asking about this.  “Attacked From All Angles” is my first film.  This is a short which highlights a congregation divided as two of their own are affected by gun violence.  One at the hands of the cops and the other at the hands of a local gang.  It highlights the reaction of the community and addresses many of the angles the black community is being attacked.  Police brutality, black on black violence and socio-economic barriers.

What’s the most challenging part of making a film?

As an indie film maker, the biggest challenge for me is the budget.  I just wrapped my second film which is a full length entitled “A-Diamond Holiday”.  While shooting, I really began to understand why you see so many names during the credits of these movies.  There are so many moving pieces, which means so many people and when you are working on a limited budget it gets tough.

Was there any director who work influenced you the most?

There are a few and the influence sort of depends on the type of piece I’m writing.  For example, the subject matter in “Attacked From All Angles” is similar to conversations that took place in Spike Lee’s “Get On The Bus”.  My stage plays would fall in the realm of a David E. Talbert and Tyler Perry to some extent.

What do you want your supporters to know about you?

That I work extremely hard and I give God the praise for everything. I have been blessed with many gifts and in saying that it is a gift, I’m acknowledging that they were given to me as opposed to me creating it myself.  I thank God for this.  Despite me not being the best, I am still able to consistently work and that is a blessing. For that reason, I walk with my head held high.  While some may confuse my confidence for arrogance, just know that my confidence is completely rooted in the God I serve and not myself.  I am a true testament that God does not call the qualified but qualifies the called. 

What’s your usual from your favorite fast-food place?

Vegan Turkey & Cheese sub with the works, along with a slice of banana pudding cheesecake from How Delish HD (Vegan spot in West Orange, New Jersey).

If you could attend any sporting event in the world, what would you choose?

The Super Bowl when the 49ers are back in it and Kaepernick has been reinstated as the quarterback.

Name the greatest song of all time?

Tough question that I honestly have no answer to.  I love Donny Hathaway and Stevie Wonder.  If I had to choose a favorite from each, “I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know” by Donny and I can’t know narrow it to one with Stevie, so I’ll just say “Superstition”.

If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

I love the vibe in Philadelphia, but it still gets cold there.  It would have to be some place that stays warm to hot all year around.

What skill would you like to become a master at?

My craft in general.  I’m good at what I do, but to be a masterful vocalist, actor, director, writer and producer would be pretty awesome. 

What must be seen or experienced in person to really appreciate it?

Theater, in my opinion there is nothing that beats live theater.  I have watched plays on film and none, including mine, match up to the experience you feel when you are live and in person.

How can everyone keep in contact with you on social media?

@adiamondent on all social media platforms.  Website: adiamondent.com.