We begin at a crossroads, when Levester must decide whether to once more attempt to navigate the labyrinthine social service system that has seen him homeless for nearly a decade, or to shun convention permanently and rely solely on his poetry to keep himself alive (if in spirit alone).

Interview with Writer/Director Levester Green

Watch I am Levester Joe Green II here:

Congratulations! Why did you make your film?

To tell my story. I was offered the opportunity by a friend named Bryan Bello when he expressed interest in starting a homeless filmmakers cooperative at Street Sense. I’ve been through a lot of trails and tribulation. As a poet, I have a voice and this film magnified my voice.

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

Because it’s me. I’m trying to express myself—my poetry, my views, my outlook.

How do personal and universal themes work in your film?

It speaks to a larger picture of violence and injustice against black men in this country and reflects issues rooted in the country’s history of slavery.

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

Originally I started off interviewing other people in my life. But as it progressed, the story became more about me and the injustices I’ve faced. My story pales in comparison to those in the Black Lives Matter movement who have lost their lives, but my experiences are still an important part of that story. Mine is a survivor’s story. It’s one story in my life.

What type of feedback have you received so far?

It’s been all positive. A lot of people said they sympathize with my struggles.

Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?

No, not really. I’m still in the struggle, still trying to gain ground, getting more involved.

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

I’d like to achieve some level of success so that I can grow into a better situation. I also hope the film will prompt people to get involved in solving some of the fundamental problems with this country. They can’t be swept under the rug. Our country has to come to terms with them. I hope my story can lead to some of those discussions.

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

I need producers, agents, sponsors, advertisers—the money makers. This is a starting point for me. My background is in radio broadcasting, so this documentary is a first step in a different vein of communication. All of the above will be key in furthering my career.

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

I want it to create a movement of social reform. We have some deep-seated issues in this country. I’d like the film to be welcomed by the masses and embraced as a spark to human rights reform.

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

What are your thoughts about reparations? How were those ever resolved? How can we make amends? The impacts of slavery are still seen and felt today in this country because there’s a crack in our foundation.

Would you like to add anything else?

I’m just trying to fight the good fight as best I can with what I have. I’m always looking to step up my game and do more. I’m looking to make serious improvements—not only in my life but in the lives of others. There’s a lot to be done and there’s not an equal playing ground. There isn’t equal access to resources.

What other projects are the key creatives developing or working on now?

After being certified in videography, editing and production at DCTV (Washington D.C.’s public access station), I’ve been researching broadcasting opportunities. I’ve been fielding offers and looking at partnering with people on other projects. I have a lot to do but there aren’t a lot of resources. My workload has been a little lighter. I’ve been working with Second Story Cards as a featured artist. I sold a print of one of my photographs through Street Sense and have been getting back into photography as a hobby.

Interview: September 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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I am Levester Joe Green II

Length: 31 minutes

Director: Levester Green

Producer: The Homeless Filmmakers Cooperative

Writer: Levester Green

About the writer, director and producer: We are advocates who believe that housing is a human right and are committed to using media to spread that message.

Key cast: Levester Green

Looking for (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists): All of the above

Social media handles

Twitter: @LevesterJoeGR2

Funders: The Reva and David Logan Foundation

Made in association with: The Homeless Filmmakers Cooperative

Where can I see it in the next month? This film will screen at the DC Shorts Film Festival: 1 p.m., Sept. 12 at E St. Cinema in downtown Washington, D.C. You can also set up your own screening by contacting Street Sense Event Coordinator Dani Gilmour (dani@streetsense.org).