JEH: Producer of Chan C. Smith’s FEAR

*Photo captured by JEH – Actors (left to right): Leland Stanford and Stephen Wilikins rehearsing lines for FEAR….In the distance, Director of Photography, Kalyn Jacobs setting up shots.

They say that artists are the storytellers of their time. It’s true. Artists create around what it happening; exploring what society is struggling with, questioning….and sometimes what society is in love with.

For people of color, there has always been a fight of some sort. And it all boils down to just wanting to live life….To just be. Without any repercussions because of the color of their skin. It’s soon to be 2017 and we continue to have these conversations. For artists, conversations become something much bigger.

Earlier this year, one of Chicago’s most talented woman filmmakers, Chan C. Smith brought on Jessica Estelle Huggins to produce her short film, FEAR. Fear is the story about a young black male who is trying to find his place in the world. But one evening, this young man makes a choice that turns his world upside down when he has a chance encounter with a police officer.

Now, I already know what you’re thinking! “Another film about a black boy getting killed by the police!”….Well, I assure you that this film is much different. Chan wrote the script from various view points so that audience members can have a deep understanding of the characters that she’s created, from their own perspectives.

In late November, FEAR had a private screening for the Chicago artist community as well as supporters of the film, cast and crew. FEAR received RAVE reviews. Our plan is to make a few more edits to the film before releasing online in early 2017. To stay up to date with FEAR, follow Chan C. Smith on Instagram: @blkfilmsmith. Should you have any questions, comments and/or concerns, feel free to email us at fearmovie2016@gmail.com.

Here’s to more conversations turning into actions to make our world a better place! #MAKEART #JEH