Bloom

My decision to direct this film was influenced by the history of cannabis, especially that of black people and cannabis. Watching this film, I wanted to give them an understanding of what it takes to grow it. Marijuana cultivation poses several challenges. It’s not all sunshine and roses. This documentary was inspired by my observations of Mark during the growing season. To tend to his plants, he would get up before the sun rises and work until it sets. I will always cherish the way this film was shot. In a way, it was almost like watching a conversation between Mark and me. If you observe how Mark is talking, you’ll notice that he’s talking to me. Especially when he looks directly behind the camera lens and asks questions similar to "you know what I mean?". To him, it was just a casual conversation, not a performance. The conversation centered around his frustrations with something he cherished immensely and seeing how much damage was done to it. As a result of his love for and knowledge of the plant, he saw past the damage done to the plants and continued working toward harvesting. He initially declined to participate in the documentary. Normally, growers prefer to remain anonymous; however, he later felt it was his responsibility to be open about his experience to alleviate the stigma associated with marijuana growers and growing marijuana.