Private Project

Down To Zero

Kyle's swagger is cut short by Brutus, his childhood barber, who delivers a harsh truth about his hairline, sending him on an introspective journey about acceptance and ego

  • Joshua Jean-Baptiste
    Director
    Grown, HomeGirl,
  • Joshua Jean-Baptiste
    Writer
  • Fabiola Rodriguez
    Producer
  • joshua Jean-Baptiste
    Key Cast
    "Kyle"
  • Melvin Huffnagle
    Key Cast
    "Brutus"
  • Frantzy Moreau
    Key Cast
    "Dre"
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Runtime:
    5 minutes 2 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    September 25, 2024
  • Country of Origin:
    United States, United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States, United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Joshua Jean-Baptiste

Haitian-American writer/director Joshua Jean-Baptiste creates narratives that probe deep into culture and identity, often drawing from his own personal experiences to explore the nuances of ideological attachments. His directorial journey began with experimental theater at the Miami Theater Center and Micro Theater Miami, establishing a strong foundation upon which his storytelling craft would continue to grow. Joshua starred and co-wrote the series 'Grown' (2018), later co-penning the feature film ‘Ludi’ (2021) which captivated audiences at SXSW and the Miami Film Festival and many others. A 2023 alumnus of the Oolite Arts Home and Away Residency, he is actively developing an array of diverse short films and his inaugural feature-length piece. Outside of directing, Joshua coaches aspiring storytellers and produces “Folktales and Fire,” an event series he conceived, fostering collaborations with brands and non-profits. Unwavering and intrepid, his commitment echoes through his endeavors to nurture cultural understanding, amplify underrepresented voices, and forge ahead in contributing to the Black Speculative Arts.

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Director Statement

Men are often faced with a pivotal decision regarding hair loss: to accept it immediately, attempt mitigation, or deny it altogether. As a man who has embraced baldness, I encountered this decision firsthand and realized its portrayal was absent in cinema. This realization gave birth to "Down to Zero." This film, rooted in a heartfelt conversation with my long-time barber, unfolds a true story reflective of the nuanced experiences many face.

Barbershops hold a unique place in Black culture, often being the singular space where men feel safe enough to be vulnerable, engage in genuine conversation, and freely express themselves. "Down to Zero" delves into these intimate moments, shedding light on the camaraderie and solace found within these community havens.

Through this film, I aspire to edge Black men closer to embracing themselves just as they are, encouraging rejection of the societal pressures that weigh heavily in both personal lives and the media. It is a celebration of identity, resilience, and the journey to self-acceptance.