In 1928, Clyde Thompson finds himself in the wrong place, convicted of murder, barely avoids the electric chair, and is sent to a brutal prison farm where he gains the moniker, “The Meanest Man in Texas,” however, through his journey he finds redemption in acceptance, love & forgiveness.

Interview with Writer/Director Justin Ward

Main photo: Mateus Ward as Clyde Thompson at the Prison Farm in Texas 1935.
Photo courtesy of @themeanestmanintexas

Congratulations! Why did you make your film?

It is an unbelievable redemption story. When I read Don Umphrey’s book, it was hard to believe any of this could have happened to one man! It was a story that HAD to be told. Don Umphrey dedicated 39 years to get this story made into a film. I was honored to be the one to help make it happen.

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

This film has something for everyone: Action, drama, humor and a romantic love story. It takes place over 3 decades, and is a true story!

The Meanest Man In Texas - Julia Perelman is played by Alexandra Bard. Photo by Deborah Kolb

How do personal and universal themes work in your film?

I think there are so many themes people are taking away from this film, which is a testament to the story. At the core, it is a powerful story about redemption. The main theme of the film is that no matter how dark things get, how low we fall, there is always hope. The other theme I wanted to explore is the idea of how a corrupt justice and prison system can change a man. Clyde went into prison a typical teenager, quite innocent in many ways, and soon gained the moniker “the Meanest Man In Texas” just to survive. I wanted to make a film that asks the fundamental question: do circumstances define who we are, or can we become the person we want to be in life, no matter our circumstances?

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

When I was brought on to direct, Don and the producers were very generous to allow me a lot of freedom during the re-write. We all felt it was important to do Clyde and Julia’s story justice, but staying as close as we could to the true story. I think the biggest evolution was how Capt. Colt and Clyde’s characters grow, and the unconditional love between Clyde and Julia, that is at the heart of the film. Those elements were the focus of the re-writes. For me, I wanted to focus on how society wants to put us all in boxes, they try and label us, for example Clyde is “a killer” and Julia is a “hunchback,” but this is a story about two people who didn’t accept those labels—in fact, they defied them—and loved each other unconditionally, regardless of how society saw them, and for me, that was the film I wanted to make.

The Meanest Man In Texas - Clyde Thompson imprisoned in 1932, played by Mateus Ward. Photo courtesy of @themeanestmanintexas

What type of feedback have you received so far?

We are all so thrilled with the reaction to the film. At every festival, the audiences love the film. It is such a surprise how many people have stayed after and just want to discuss the film.

Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?

The ways that I thought the film would affect people has not been what I expected. I have had Muslim, Jewish and Christians approach me and tell me how moved they were by the story. I think the spiritual side has had a profound effect on a lot of people. I have had people approach us who have children in prison, and it has been a real lesson on how that particular aspect has had such a profound affect on people.

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

Don Umphrey’s goal was for as many people as possible to see this film, so we are grateful to have such incredible outlets as We are Moving Stories cover the film and reach audiences we would never be able to reach. So thank you!

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

We are on the film festival circuit now, and will be looking for distribution soon. We would love to be able to reach buyers and distributors, who hopefully bring some publicity as well. Ideally, we would love a theatrical release, but again, our goal is just to have as many people see the film as possible.

The Meanest Man In Texas - Clyde Thompson played by Mateus Ward. Photo courtesy of @themeanestmanintexas

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

I’d like people to walk away with their own interpretation, but if I had one wish, it would be that people realize that by labeling others and not seeing them as individuals, there can be no forgiveness or redemption. We all need to be more accepting of each other.

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

Is it worth giving a someone who has done horrible things a second chance? Is every life worth saving?

Would you like to add anything else?

It is a miracle this film was even made. 39 years in the making, 11 days to shoot, in over 100 degree weather, 4 weeks of post-production, and all on an ultra low SAG budget.

What are the key creatives developing or working on now?

Mateus Ward and I have written a teen anti-bully film called REBEL that deals with teen suicide and apathy, that we are seeking financing, and the producers of the film have several projects they are working on. Don Umphrey has also written a book called “Southerners in Blue” about a devoted family man in the south with anti-slavery, pro-Union sentiments must choose between joining the Confederate army to placate local Rebel sympathizers or flee and fight for the north with possible severe consequences for his wife and children.

Interview: May 2017

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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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The Meanest Man In Texas

Length: 1 hour 45 minutes

Director: Justin Ward

Producers: Brad Wilson, Casey Bond

Writers: Justin Ward, Don Umphrey, based on the book by Don Umphrey

Key cast: Mateus Ward, Jamie McShane, Alexandra Bard, Ben Reed, Casey Bond, James Morrison

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

Social media handles:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeanestManInTX

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMeanestManInTexas/

Instagram: @themeanestmanintexas, @mateusward, @alexandraBard,

Other: www.themeanestmanintexas

Funders: Executive Producers: Marshall Danby, Don Umphrey

Produced by Higher Purpsose Entertainment, in association with Ohana Films, Inc.

Where can I see it in the next month?

We will be making announcements on our social media pages