SON RISE, SON SHINE, 10min., USA
Directed by Sasha Marie Speer
A black man struggles to find his place in the world after not meeting society’s expectations. Son Rise, Son Shine is a short film about the journey of Gerald, a black, gay man, as he interacts with himself and the world from ages 6 to 40. Throughout the film, his 9-year-old self is acting as his inner bully, always telling him that the way he is doesn’t meet who he should be as a black man. That he isn’t good enough. That no one loves him. Through his different ages, we see Gerald struggle, but eventually finally find peace with who he is and his place in the world.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film? I was approached by real-life Gerald to help him make a film for his 40th birthday. After hours of talking, we decided this would be the most authentic direction to go to reflect his journey to this point in life.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? About 6 months.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!? Overcoming Obstacles

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? Lol getting Gerald on the phone! He is a busy man who has a lot of responsibility. We were on a tight timeline to get this done, and needed his input and feedback to make sure the story was as authentically him as possible.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video? My editor and I always set an intention before we sit down for the edit of each film and describe 3 words that we want the audience to feel when they watch the final product. Her and I heard all of those in the audience feedback. That's a win for sure for us.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films? The first time I saw a National Geographic magazine, I knew I wanted to take pictures. I didn't know I wanted to turn those pictures into motion pictures until just before my 30th birthday when I was asked to help film a show that a camera person didn't show for. After a 5-minute tutorial, there was no looking back.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life? Hmmm probably one from my childhood. I loved Old Yeller... I also loved Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Karate Kid.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career? I always love being able to get together in person. Even if you did a "Best Of" once a year with all of the winners from each of your festivals – it would be a meaningful experience for everyone.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site? Great. It's super easy to use and understand.

10. What is your favorite meal? Pannekoeken. My family is Dutch and these are special thin pancakes my mom and grandmother would make a few times a year. They're delicious!

11. What is next for you? A new film? I am working on a feature doc about The Connie Norman Transgender Empowerment Center in West Hollywood.