Ep 214: From West Indian Roots to Black Cinema: Curtis Caesar John

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

• Episode Summary: In this episode, we sit down with Curtis, a Filmmaker, Cultural advocate, and Executive Director of the nomadic cinema and The Luminal Theater (founded in 2015 ) to discuss his journey in the film industry. Influenced by his West Indian heritage and passion for storytelling. Curtis shares his experiences co-founding the New Voices in Black Cinema, his approach to creating spaces for Black filmmakers, and the importance of community-driven art. We also explore the significance of diverse representation in cinema and how Curtis continues to support emerging Black filmmakers through innovative platforms.
• Key Topics Discussed:
  • Curtis's journey into filmmaking and the impact of his West Indian heritage.
  • The founding of New Voices in Black Cinema and its role in amplifying Black stories.
  • The importance of creating community-driven film spaces.
  • Curtis’s experiences as a producer of impactful documentaries.
  • The role of representation and heritage in storytelling.
    
    • This podcast provides valuable insights into:
      1. Cultural Influence in Creative Work: Curtis discusses how his West Indian heritage shaped his approach to filmmaking and storytelling, offering listeners a perspective on how culture can influence creative careers.
      2. Creating Inclusive Spaces in Cinema: Curtis’s experience in founding New Voices in Black Cinema sheds light on the importance of community-driven spaces that amplify underrepresented voices.
      3. Impact of Representation in Media: The conversation delves into why representation matters in cinema, providing educational value for listeners interested in diversity and inclusivity in media.
      4. Practical Filmmaking Insights: Aspiring filmmakers and producers can learn from Curtis's experiences, challenges, and successes in producing impactful documentaries and films.
      5. The Power of Community Collaboration: The episode highlights how building networks and collaborations within communities can lead to successful creative projects and events.

W: https://www.luminaltheater.org/curtiscaesarjohn