We worked with Walmart to launch this series of docu-style short films to serve as both an ode to Black fatherhood and an exploration of its evolution.
By scratching beneath the surface of the daily lives of a few real Black fathers, each film highlighted a new perspective on Black fatherhood today. Through a
combination of pointed intergenerational conversations juxtaposed with the visual narrative of intimate, everyday moments, the short films directed by emerging
filmmakers Jared Malik Royal, Dior Rodriguez, and Rodney Rikai captured authentic, nuanced stories of real dads who are shifting the narrative in their day-to-day lives.
In honor of Father’s Day, the series launched just in to encourage families everywhere to celebrate the amazing fathers in their lives and premiere at this year’s American
Black Film Festival. The films were followed by a live panel discussion between actors Morris Chestnut and Lorenz Tate and filmmaker Malcolm Lee who together
discussed the ways they are making strides every day to continue re-writing the narrative.
LEGACY OF THE SEA BY DIOR RODRIGUEZ
Legacy of the Sea is a story of preserving and passing down traditions. Dior’s concept was born from her own experience with her late father who was a maker and
empowered an entire generation by sharing his wisdom. This poetic story explores themes of family traditions and heritage in a way that is relatable yet refreshingly
nuanced and original. Not only does this short expand viewers understanding of Black fatherhood, it also introduces an all-together new understanding of
Blackness and identity.
DEAR DAD BY JARED M. ROYAL
Jared’s, Dear Dad,” film takes place on Sankofa Farms and explores the story of father and farmer Kamal Bell. This poetic doc explores how Kamal is using foundational
Black knowledge in innovative new ways to create a lasting legacy. Jared drew inspiration for this theme from his own family history and the generations of fathers that
paved the way for him. The result was a compelling, cinematic portrayal of a new kind of Black family story.
JUST BREATHE BY RODNEY RIKAI
Rodney’s story was a reflective, autobiographical homage to his journey as a full-time single father and uncle. As a self-titled Dunkle, Rodney has learned
to juggle becoming his own man while also raising his son and nephew to become the men they are meant to be. “Just Breathe,” is a commentary on
modern Black fatherhood and parenting styles that both draws and departs from the models of prior generations . This refreshing new
stories is an inspiration for the new fathers of today to feel seen.