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The Lick

The Lick is a drama about Jaheim, a young man grappling with the pressures of a criminal lifestyle imposed by his friends.

Years earlier, Jaheim and his close friend Michael were victims of a mugging, an experience that still haunts him to this day. Now, as his friends plot to rob someone, Jaheim faces a moral crossroads: succumb to the cycle of violence or break free to forge his own path.

  • James Bah
    Director
  • James Bah
    Writer
  • Cristian Cabral Rios
    Producer
  • Darrius Dockery
    Key Cast
    "Jaheim"
  • Destin Allen-Badgett
    Key Cast
    "Michael"
  • Deon Shaw
    Key Cast
    "Darrion"
  • Cortenia Smith
    Supporting Cast
    Elderly Lady
  • Amad Woodard
    Supporting Cast
    Drunk Man
  • Aru
    Supporting Cast
    Cashier
  • Phillip McMahand
    Supporting Cast
    Muggers
  • Kaden Wansel
    Supporting Cast
    Muggers
  • James Bah
    Supporting Cast
    Muggers
  • DE'Andre Foxx
    Supporting Cast
    Young Kid
  • Nate Henry
    Unit 1 Director Of Photography
  • Olivia Williams
    Unit 2 Director Of Photography
  • Kajwan Alavi
    Associate Producer
  • Daniel Vo
    Line Producer
  • Isabella Koontz
    Unit 1 Gaffer
  • CK Kearns
    Unit 2 Gaffer
  • Termane Jay Jr
    Unit 1 AC
  • Marjaan Simaab
    Unit 2 First AC
  • Hanniyah Muhammad
    Unit 2 Second AC
  • Branden Lee
    Assistant Director
  • Kallie Moyers
    Unit 1 Script Supe
  • Erica Worthington
    Editor
  • Anya Aftab
    Production Design
  • Cecilia Ohanian
    Production Design
  • Norma Reyes
    Unit 2 Grip
  • Cristina Torres
    Unit 2 Caterer
  • Andrew Akbari
    Unit 1 Grip
  • Ebony Schoon
    Production Assitant
  • Abe Castillo
    Production Assitant
  • Lydian Mood
    Make-up
  • Selma Veli
    BTS Photography
  • Terrence Webster
    BTS Videography
  • Dominique Dargan
    Unit 1 Production Assistants
  • Sujay Khona
    Unit 1 Production Assistants
  • Victoria Lin
    Sound Mixer
  • Evan Williams
    Boom Operator
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    11 minutes 2 seconds
  • Production Budget:
    2,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States, United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States, United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    RED
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - George Mason University
Director Biography - James Bah

James Bah is a Washington, D.C.-born filmmaker and digital storyteller, currently completing his Bachelor of Arts in Film and Video Studies at George Mason University. Serving as the President of the Black Filmmakers Association at GMU, James channels his passion for elevating underrepresented voices through his work, capturing authentic stories that challenge societal norms.

With hands-on experience as a director, editor, and content creator, James’ filmography includes The Show (2024), where he brought to life narratives exploring identity and cultural resilience. He also contributed to Netflix’s RUSTIN as a Locations Assistant, deepening his understanding of production logistics on large-scale projects.

James’ films focus on themes of community, masculinity, and moral duality. Through authentic storytelling, he strives to amplify narratives often overlooked, bridging entertainment with impactful social commentary.

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Director Statement

My work as a filmmaker is deeply rooted in exploring the struggles and triumphs of young Black men navigating identity, community, and moral conflict. Growing up in Washington, D.C., I witnessed firsthand the duality of street culture—its sense of brotherhood and survival alongside its harsh consequences. This reality inspires my storytelling, where I aim to humanize individuals often reduced to stereotypes, revealing the complexities of their lives and choices.

Stylistically, I gravitate toward realism and introspection, drawing influence from filmmakers like Barry Jenkins and the poetic honesty of Moonlight. My vision blends naturalistic visuals, compelling dialogue, and intimate character arcs to immerse audiences in the emotional journeys of my protagonists. Films like The Lick reflect this approach, tackling themes of toxic masculinity, societal pressure, and self-discovery while centering voices that are too often unheard.

Ultimately, I strive to create films that resonate beyond the screen—stories that spark empathy, challenge perceptions, and inspire viewers to reflect on their own values. I believe in the power of cinema to build bridges between communities and provide representation that feels authentic, empowering, and timeless. Through my creative work, I hope to leave an impact that uplifts and challenges audiences, celebrating the strength of individuality while honoring the realities of the worlds we inhabit.
Through protagonist Jaheim's journey, the film humanizes the pathways into street life, confronts prejudices against Black men, and tackles toxic masculinity, while showcasing the strength of personal morals.