“7:11” Vision: Joel Edwards
As a film director, Joel Edwards is hungry to tackle his clear directorial goal for Hollywood Casting and Film’s latest short film project 7:11, written by HC&F Head Writer Leilani Downer.
As soon as he read the script, excitement automatically sprung for the project. Joel went straight to the drawing board to put ideas on paper as thoughts swirled.
“The script is relatable and it’s timely, so I instantly connected with it,” Joel said with a mixture of passion and contemplation in his voice. “I am really thinking about how every shot can convey this story in a raw way.”
The story focuses on exhausted nurse RACHEL and her spiritual journey as she weathers the COVID-19 pandemic, so authenticity in the film is monumental to Joel. However, after watching the impressive auditions of HC&F actors Vena Howard, Martin Davis, and Dominique Bell, he’s confident that they can work together to build a strong and poignant short film.
“I don’t want it to be too on the nose. Everyone’s heard everything about COVID, so I think that the subtler that it’s presented, the better. Subtlety actually empowers the film and Rachel’s arc even more.”
Subtlety is a concept that any accomplished filmmaker values, but Joel didn’t get that expertise overnight. Growing up, Joel loved watching A-list actor Tom Cruise in action-packed films because Cruise performed his own stunts. Joel studied martial arts and parkour to become a similar actor, but as he started doing skits with friends, his passion quickly drifted to behind the camera. He started by filming weddings and music videos.
Soon, Joel teamed with Preston Pollard to film the web series “Push Forward.” They interviewed top industry talent such as Mark Ruffalo, Karen Gillan, Danai Gurira, and Anthony Russo (Avengers: Endgame). Each interview aimed to inspire the youth of America with wisdom and insight from these A-list stars.
Not everything has been easy, though.
“One of the hardest things about being a filmmaker is your worry about what others think of you and your work. We create things to share, but at the same time, we create the films we want to create. They’re special to us for a reason and that can be such a vulnerable thing to share with outsiders. There’s a thought of ‘I suck. Maybe I shouldn’t pursue this.’ But I’ve learned that sometimes, even the work I feel is not my best can have a positive impact on another person. That’s the beautiful thing about this art. My vulnerability allows for another to be moved, so I remind myself of that.”
The concept of vulnerability connects him to 7:11, where he plans to amplify its most important theme: Hope.
“There is a chance for some really powerful shots and performances that offer a beacon of light to a world that desperately needs it right now.”
Witnessing his accomplishments and skills firsthand, HC&F believes that he’ll accomplish that goal. If you want to learn more about Joel and connect with him, please check out these links:
Joel Edwards (@edwardsfilmproductions) • Instagram photos and videos
