My name is Jamal Smart, and my journey began with a camera in hand, shooting music videos for my cousin. Back then, I thought platforms like WorldStarHipHop were the pinnacle of what I could achieve as a cinematographer. But as I interned at production studios and worked on sets for BET, JFK, VH1, and various fashion campaigns and musicians, I realized something was missing. Despite the accolades, I never felt fulfilled by what I was creating. There was an emptiness inside me, a longing to make a real impact, to leave a message that mattered.
I always told myself that I wanted to create something meaningful—something I could proudly show my daughter, something that, if shared with just one person, could change the way they felt. That’s why I created this story—to shed light on a struggle my community faces every day. I’ve had friends call me, struggling with their feelings about parenthood, and I’ve seen family members express that something just didn’t feel right. It never sat well with me, and I realized that postpartum depression isn’t just a challenge for mothers—it affects everyone around them.
This film is a reflection of those experiences. The characters showcase how people show up for one another in different ways and how often we neglect mental health when someone is clearly in need. Raising a child shouldn’t be a burden carried by one person alone; it’s a community effort. We should never disregard someone’s feelings. I hope this film resonates with you and makes you feel the same heartbreak I felt when hearing those stories.