Lesson Learned
I have recently uploaded my directorial film debut, Lesson Learned and would love for you to take twenty minutes to go watch it.
In the summer of 2004, I needed an outlet for my feelings about the war in Iraq . It’s no secret that I was opposed to it from the get go, but it seemed that the more I struggled against it, the more my country wanted it. Disgusted and disenfranchised, I remained silent for months, not even watching the news or reading of what was happening. Bush had already declared ‘Mission Accomplished’, and I felt there was little I could do to dissuade what had already been done.
As I began to notice that the war lingered on, I was given the opportunity to make a film through the generosity of Swain Film and Video in Sarasota . Building the project with Susan Wachtel, the pieces started to come together as the vision grew and more people got involved.
Filmed in beautiful Sarasota , Florida , the film features the talents of Country Music Legend Little Jimmie Sizemore and William Schultz. Musically, I couldn’t have asked for a better score. From the theme song by James Corbin and cuts from Scott Peace, to the soundtrack by TK Mizimuma. Adding in Tbone and Trae Nobi as producers, I was truly blessed with some great talent. And with an overall budget of about $250, I’m pretty pleased with the outcome.
It was not my intention to rally against the war, for why rally against what is inevitable. Nor was it my intention to repeat the mistakes of Vietnam by attacking the troops who followed orders. My goal was to inspire peace in the midst of war, and to give people a place to build from, as we have broken down so much. As I watched the film today, I realized that I achieved my goal.
Though longer than your usual You Tube fare, it is my hope that you will take twenty minutes out of your busy schedule to watch.
