Fooding Around

In the vibrant city of Birmingham, a passionate Spanish teacher embarks on a culinary adventure to create an innovative course that explores the intersection of food, culture, and identity, facing systemic obstacles and personal conflicts that challenge her dreams of bridging communities through gastronomy.

  • Joshua Allen Epps
    Director
  • Joshua Allen Epps
    Writer
  • Colin Thomas Mabry
    Producer
  • Jenna Reynolds
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    4 minutes 17 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    December 11, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    500 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - University of Alabama at Birmingham
Director Biography - Joshua Allen Epps

Joshua (Allen) Epps is a filmmaker and artist from Birmingham, Alabama, with a diverse background that informs his unique perspective on storytelling. A 14-year Army veteran, he traveled to 14 countries during his service, gaining invaluable insights into different cultures and the human experience. These global experiences, combined with his time in the military, have deeply influenced the way he approaches his work, giving him a broader and more nuanced view of the world.

Currently an undergraduate student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Allen is pursuing a degree in Art with a minor in Film. His academic journey allows him to blend his passion for visual expression with his growing expertise in filmmaking. As a father of four, he brings a grounded, family-oriented approach to his creative process, always striving to tell stories that resonate with audiences on an emotional level.

With a deep understanding of discipline and resilience from his military background, and a wealth of cultural experiences from his travels, Allen is crafting a distinctive voice in the film industry. His work aims to connect people across cultural and geographical divides, offering stories that provoke thought, spark conversation, and celebrate the complexities of the human experience.

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Director Statement

The story centers around a passionate Spanish teacher who embarks on a culinary journey to bridge the gap between diverse communities through the universal language of food. As she navigates systemic obstacles and personal conflicts, her dream of uniting people from different walks of life faces significant challenges. Yet, it’s through these very struggles that the beauty of her mission emerges, showcasing the resilience and strength that comes from embracing both our differences and our shared humanity.

To me, this film speaks to the essence of Birmingham itself—a city where cultures, histories, and people from all backgrounds intersect and influence one another. It's a place where the act of sharing a meal can transcend borders, offering a moment of connection in a world that often feels divided. Through this story, I hope to highlight the profound impact that food and culture can have in fostering understanding, empathy, and community, while also acknowledging the personal and systemic barriers that can hinder progress.

Ultimately, this film is a celebration of the ways in which we are all connected, and the transformative power of pursuing dreams that seek to unite rather than divide. It’s about finding common ground, even in the most unlikely of places, and using creativity and compassion as tools to bridge divides.