Today we’d like to introduce you to Jalen Christopher.
Hi Jalen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
It all started back for me in college. I was the usual confused about life and what’s the next step for me college student. I jumped from engineering, criminal justice and finally felt a little comfortable with advertising and graphic design so I stayed with it for a semester. All that changed when Jordan Peele dropped his directorial debut film “Get Out”. The next day I immediately changed my major to digital film and production. I fell in love with the way the narrative was told, it was almost as if it was shown through black perspective binoculars. Ever since then, it was a snowball effect. My first day of classes as a film student, I could feel myself falling in love with it. I was fortunate enough to be blessed with a professor that offered me mentors to help teach me a little of the business. Soon after, the movie theatre which would be a place for cool date idea or just something to do with friends changed to something I went to alone because it felt like therapy to me.
From learning in the classroom, class projects and finally graduating, I had the talk to talk but I didn’t have the walk to walk if that makes sense. I graduated and moved back to California at first, I was nervous to pick up the camera myself so I started getting out there helping my friends with their own projects as PA or a 2nd AD. Then elevated myself to creating my own vision with my artist friends directing their music videos and small short clips. Until I was finally I was comfortable enough to follow through on my own vision. That lead me to writing, producing, and directing my first ever independent short film, fashion promo videos, and snagging an opportunity interning with heirs entertainment which has dealing with likes of puma and celebrities such as J Cole, Kyle Kuzma, etc. and this is still only the beginning.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I’m blessed to say that it hasn’t been the roughest road. I lost a job or two in college so I couldn’t afford things for my classes every now and then. Sure post-graduation work is no picnic either feels nearly impossible at times. The death of my grandmother hit me a little late but she wouldn’t want me sulking about it. So to keep it short, I’m thankful for how the road has been for me so far.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Directing is my niche/my golden goose. I love bringing a vision of mine or others to life. I’m most proud of my recent short film a romantic comedy titled “In Living Color” set to release in February. I want to shed light on the untold stories or bring the stories that haven’t been told yet to life (from a predominantly black perspective). Something else I’m involved in is my creative agency Witness the Dream (WTD). Created by me and my colleague- merchandise our company aims to bridge everything entertainment together.
What matters most to you?
My friends matter the most. I couldn’t have gotten this far and likely will not go as far as I want without those people. God strategically placed these people in my life for a reason and I can’t thank him enough for it. They support my creative endeavors with no hesitation. Wolf pack, pirate crew, brothers and sisters in arms whatever name you want to put in them, they are always down to ride with me and help out.
Contact Info:
- Email: Jaywtd@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaydirects/
- Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Jay_WTD21
- Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCk6SNIdsjPCUD2hnLI_Lk-g
Image Credits:
Koren Marquez Brad Thomas Potter
