Michael, a High School Senior, has to deal with gang violence, drugs, hatred, poverty, and racism every single day, and make the decision to rise above them to become the change, or follow his brothers down the road into a gang. In the end he has to make the tough decision between betraying his family or taking a stand for change and to become the light in the darkness. Because after all, "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."

Interview with Director Joshua A. Villalta and Producer/Writer Steve Machovec

Congratulations! Why did you make your film?

In the midst of an age of hate and segregation and defining people by race, religion and poverty, we wanted to share a story to help break down those barriers. We wanted to tell a story that love can win in the end.

Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?

If you (or anyone) has any heart for the struggles people face who live in a reality of racism and poverty, if you feel discouraged by watching the news every night, and if you are cynical about the future of our nation; this story shows that anyone can overcome their circumstances, and be a light in the darkness.

How do personal and universal themes work in your film?

The overall theme and feel of this story tries to connect the universal theme of love conquering hate and the message of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with the personal thought that, yes, one person CAN make a difference.

How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development and production?

One of the best ways that Josh and I got to experience and watch the script evolve was through each actor taking ownership of their roles, and experiencing the story through their eyes, not just acting out a part.

What type of feedback have you received so far?

For the most part, we have experienced overwhelming support from friends and family who have had the opportunity to see the film. But like many micro-budget films our wall has been our reach, and the ability to let new audiences experience our story. But through festivals like this, we hope new people can see this film, be inspired, and make changes in their own lives to help bring light into our world!

Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?

If anything, I am surprised how many people from various backgrounds buy into the message of the story. I don’t want to speak for the cast and crew, but I have hope that ordinary people want to make a difference in the world where and how they can.

What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?

The only thing I can truly hope for are changed hearts from anyone who sees this story. If only one person who was cynical, hateful, racist, or indifferent to another’s suffering has a change of heart than I think we accomplished our goals. Obviously the more we can reach, the more we can share our story of hope.

Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?

We need film distributors, and buyers to get this message out there to the public.

What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?

Similar to question 7, our goal going into this was to change hearts and minds. The message of the movie IS the goal and impact we want. I would want every viewer to truthfully look inward after watching, and see what their true reaction is.

What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?

To any audience member or anyone reading this: Do you believe that the darkness that exists in this world can be driven out with the light we bring? And what are you prepared to do to bring light in?

Would you like to add anything else?

If anything, I would like to add a word of thanks to you, your readers, and any viewers willing to give this story a chance. There is no more appropriate quote to close on than, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” Martin Luther King Jr.

What are the key creatives developing or working on now?

As a writer I always have stories bouncing around - we will have to see what pops out first. But I absolutely loved working with Josh and his crew, and how they saw, believed in, and bought into the story, really interpreting the message in an artistic way, and letting the story tell itself on screen!

Interview: December 2016

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We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series and music video. If you have just made a film - we'd love to hear from you. Or if you know a filmmaker - can you recommend us? More info: Carmela

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KING

Steve Machovec is currently the Executive Director for Twice Blessed Free Store, a ministry of Rocky River United Methodist Church. His passion in life, work, writing, and free time is mission work towards equality and poverty alleviation.

Joshua A.Villalta is a local film director from Cleveland, Ohio. His passion his film making and drive to do better is his son.

Key cast:

-Tyler Cornell as Michael
- Richard Morgan as Joseph
- and Hakeem Sharif as Christopher
- with
- Sterling Hall as Ray
- Matthew Pellas as Tre
- Rob Grant as Kordell

Looking for (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists):
Buyers,Distributors

Made in association with: Infinite Nueve Productions

Release date: December 9th, 2015

Where will it screen in the next month?
Atlas Theater in Euclid, Ohio. For a Private event.