My "Loving" Review

I went into the theater not expecting to be wowed by the movie “Loving,” but to my surprise it really was as the critics have been saying one of the best movies this year. The acting by the main stars Ruth Negga and Joel Edgerton was flawless and believable. The cinematography was amazing. I felt as though I was transported back in time.

Though I am not in an interracial union, there were a lot of things that were relatable. I immediately picked up on the fact that Mildred Loving was shy. Negga portrayed her perfectly – soft, demure, and feminine. Even though Loving was quiet in nature, she was instrumental in getting the ball rolling and changing history. She wrote the letter that resulted in the Lovings getting an ACLU lawyer, and she also contacted the media several times. I could also relate to the rural setting, being from a small, farming North Carolina town.

As I was watching the movie, I remembered that I was supposed to audition for the Laura character. I had to decline though because I was in the process of moving to Houston. But it was interesting to see who got it and how she approached the role. The actress who got it, Ardrene Ward-Hammond did an excellent job. I even spotted a North Carolina actor who had several prominent scenes named Will Dalton.

If you get a chance, you should definitely go check out the movie. You will be inspired and glad you did.

Update

Yesterday, I filmed more scenes for "Project Jyn." I did two emotional scenes that still have me sore and tired. I love doing this movie! I'm naturally shy in real life, but Jynx, my character, is the total opposite. The writers/producers were initially apprehensive of giving me the role because in their words, "I'm so nice." But I have left them and myself pleasantly surprised. Jynx is fierce and intimidating. I can't wait until we film again next month.

                                         


I also did another film called "The Longest Ride Ever." I play a very annoying Uber customer named Rasheeke. This was another fun character that is the opposite of me. Taking on projects like "The Longest Ride Ever" and "Project Jyn" allow me to come out of my shell if only for a little while. This film is still in production.

I got my SAG-AFTRA letter!

I recently received my letter allowing me to join SAG-AFTRA. I am so thankful and proud that I was a part of the hilarious, award-winning "Actors Anonymous." Look out for the web series to premiere soon on YouTube. We will film additional episodes next year.

Project Jyn Teaser

Take a look.

Project Jyn

I am excited about my upcoming movie "Project Jyn." It's a lead role! I already filmed two scenes.

Actors Anonymous

I am still on cloud nine after filming my first web series “Actors Anonymous.” We completed 28 pages in two days! The cast and crew are so talented. I truly enjoyed working with them. More to come...

                                          Cast/Crew Photo for Day 1

Day 2

Waiting to film my scene

                                                                I loved my makeup!

I’m not being punished, I’m being protected

I got the call right as I was going over my lines for a scene I was struggling to memorize.  “We’ve decided to go with another actress for the lead role.” The role I had been working on and developing for six months.  Six months! The role I thought was mine after several starts and stops, dizzying cast changes, and several directors.

I’m still processing it. But as I think back, I see a lot of red flags. To be honest, I wasn’t having fun.  I was starting to dread it.  I felt…uneasy. Sometimes spending time with my husband or just being in front of the TV sounded better. And I didn’t realize how much time I devoted to this role. With so much free time now, I’ve been doing so much.

I should have listened to that voice that was telling me “Something isn’t right about this.”  I ignored it, and now I’m resentful, my confidence is shaken, and I feel as if I wasted my time. Over and over, my instincts told me to get out, give up, throw in the towel, but I didn’t.  I didn’t want to appear as a quitter or that I wasn’t up for the job.  I kept telling myself, “It’s almost over, just hang in there.”

So though I’m a little hurt, I remind myself that I wasn’t punished but instead protected.  Whatever happens with the project is no longer any of my concern.  I’m just glad that big weight has been lifted.