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| (L-R) Hassan Johnson (Leo Littles) and Kontinental Krome (Jason) |
From my daily interactions, I often wonder if the concept of chivalry is a lost art. I encounter men that do not obey the rule of ladies first. I find myself holding doors open, changing the direction of my step, or being mindful of etiquette in a crowded elevator more so than my male counterparts these days. It is perturbing because often men wonder why they can't find a decent woman. This is most likely because we have been programmed to fend for ourselves instead of expecting common courtesies from a man.
Thus, my interest was perked when I learned one of my tweeples was making a film on the subject. "Ladies Love Leo Littles" explores this topic and provides context from a male perspective. Writer/director Sean "Red.71" Murdock, gives insight into the project, scheduled for release Summer 2013.
Absolute Venus: Tell us more about the premise of the film.
Red.71: "Ladies Love Leo Littles : A Lesson in Chivalry" is the story of two young men from different worlds who teach each other a valuable lesson about the opposite sex. Leo Littles is an ordinary gentleman leading an extraordinary life, well at least to some. It's a romantic comedy set in downtown Brooklyn, NY.
AbsoluteVenus: Are you the sole writer of the screenplay, or was it a collaborative effort?
Red.71: Sole writer although there were a couple of re-writes after I had a read with a few friends.
AbsoluteVenus: Is Leo Littles based on someone you know? A mixture of people you know?
Red.71: Leo Littles is loosely based on some of my life and a couple of good brothers I know. I was inspired by the neighborhood. While walking my dogs Sporty and Esquire, who cameo in the film, and living in the Avalon Ft. Greene I saw the difference in the mindset of two different communities of people living is such close proximity to each other and how they perceive the other group..
AbsoluteVenus: Who is the talented cast/crew for the film?
Red.71: Hassan Johnson aka Weebey from HBO's "The Wire" landed the lead as Leo Littles. He is a seasoned actor who has been typecast as the hoodlum type. However, in this film, he plays a former nerd and college graduate who successfully goes into business for himself. Trenice Jenkins plays Nyomi, the leading lady, with no formal experience but natural talent. Kontinental Krome, the supporting male in this film as Jason, is a Stoll fairly new on the big screen. He debuted in "1st Dates" as Todd but is comfortable in front of the camera. Lil Bob McCall is also no stranger to the big screen and he plays Marty, Jason's good friend who doesn't want him to mature. There are also a host of beautiful ladies of all nationalities that help to prove that chivalry is international and isn't bound by language or ethnicity. My indispensable film crew have the most important jobs that you never see and they are truly the ones who make magic happen. From sound to lighting to edit every member of my team is appreciated.
AbsoluteVenus: Where is filming taking place?
Red.71: Brooklyn and Manhattan NY but mostly Brooklyn.
AbsoluteVenus: When will filming begin?
Red.71: We start shooting June 9, 2013 and at the end of July.
AbsoluteVenus: When is the project slated to be completed?
Red.71: We are scheduled for an early September 2013 release date.
AbsoluteVenus: What other projects are you working on?
Red.71: Currently writing my 1st book entitled "The Right Fight" which is about a young boxer. It will be my 3rd screenplay. I want to try something different by writing the book first to gain a fan base then have them come out and support the film in theaters. I hope to have it distributed to at least 50 theaters nationwide.
AbsoluteVenus: Where can we see some of your work?
Red.71: My 1st short film about the risks of casual dating is available on Youtube.
"1st Dates"
I look forward to seeing the film and will bring any previews to you here on Planet Venus!
love & light
AbsoluteVenus
© 2012
