"Shades of Regret: A Father's Awakening"

As I sit in the familiar surroundings of Hilltop Cafe, where the welcoming staff warmly know me as "Oscar the Unc" (thank you, Issa!), I find myself reflecting on my 36-year journey through the world of film. This place holds a special significance in my heart, and I am grateful for every moment spent here.

Close your eyes and imagine the emotional and passionate arc of my bio. From the depths of a $400,000 loan debt acquired from two graduate programs to over a decade of shadowing on five television shows and traditional feature films, I have faced countless challenges. But with each obstacle, I have grown stronger and more determined to prove myself.

All the while, my father's doubts lingered in my mind. His words, a reflection of his own struggles, served as both a hurdle and a motivation. I wanted to prove him wrong, to break free from the limitations that others had placed upon me. And so, armed with nothing more than an iPhone and an unwavering passion, I set out to redefine the world of filmmaking.

Today, I stand as a debt-free public servant, completely focused on mastering the art of iPhone filmmaking. With over 30,000 hours of accumulated knowledge, I am determined to create narratives that not only rival big-budget productions but also shed light on overlooked communities. Through the lens of my iPhone, I strive to empower those who, like me, have made the most of limited resources.

Drawing upon my extensive training in 35mm and 16K, as well as the invaluable lessons learned from esteemed animation teachers of the original Disney, I challenge the norms of sound, color principles, and blending traditional narrative with various visual compositions. Because of my exposure to brilliant world-class animators, I understand how to manipulate and have the skills to design and blend visual images and concepts, which I've been doing since the 1990s.

The stories I tell are a reflection of the rich tapestry of the human experience. They resonate with BIPOC, women, LGBTQIA, the disabled, Gen Z, and Alpha Gen communities, amplifying their voices and championing their stories. The recognition I have received through film awards and accolades is not just a testament to my own success but also a celebration of these communities by me — a cisgender/hetero Black man.

As an active member of the film community, I contribute my voice and expertise to organizations such as the NAACP Image Awards and the USC/Hanks/Miller Black Alumni group. My involvement with the Organization of Black Screenwriters (OBS) and the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) allows me to connect with like-minded individuals who share my passion for diversity and representation.

During the challenging times of the pandemic, I found myself documenting the powerful protests that swept the nation. This project, which I am currently developing into a documentary, captures the voices of those fighting for justice and equality. It is a testament to the power of filmmaking to shine a light on societal issues and spark change.

With all my experience, I am still a fledgling at these modern processes and need to relearn. Tomorrow may not be afforded to me, so I must represent myself today. My academic achievements, including a BA from UC Berkeley, an MFA from the California Institute of the Arts in film, and a Doctorate in Education from Pepperdine University, have equipped me with the knowledge and skills to excel in my craft. Yet, I am humbled by the realization that the journey of learning is never-ending.

At 56 years old, I find myself in creative spaces, where dreams are born, nurtured, and brought to life. It is here that I redefine my 36-year pursuit of my true calling. The future holds a multitude of untold stories, and one that resonates deeply with me is a documentary about the largest black film awards show from the 1970s 80s, and 90s, which took place in Oakland. This event, The Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame Awards Red Carpet, holds a special place in my heart, as it was where I first interned and developed my connection to the world of film. It is a chapter from my past that will become a pivotal point in my future narrative.

Throughout my journey, there is one aspect of life that I hold dear above all else - fatherhood. Coming from a two-parent household, I understand the importance of undivided attention and the bond of family. I never wanted to risk my children being robbed of that by pursuing my unsettled calling to make films. While some filmmakers successfully balance family and their passion, I made the decision to dedicate my life to serving as an uncle and surrogate father while pursuing my unquenchable desire to make films, especially those centered around black families and fatherhood.

This is my story, filled with passion, determination, and a burning desire to make a difference.