Rising Stars: Meet Lotus Film Samuel Lee Fudge

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lotus Film Samuel Lee Fudge.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My colleagues and I got into filmmaking because we wanted to shed light on narratives of those who are like us. People who share the same background, culture, experiences and upbringing such as we did. We feel that individuals from our communities are often overlooked and un appreciated by Hollywood. Through our work, we strive to be the voice of our people by sharing their stories accurately, truthful and with the intent to influence. Most people like us lack the opportunity and resources to share their story to the world. We take on the responsibility to do it for them through creating quality film. Lotus Film, Co-Writer, Nathaniel Williams and I met 17 years ago while attending Richmond Heights Middle School. We met in band class. At the time, we both shared a passion for music.

From band class, we became lifelong friends and collaborators. This is how the Lotus Film came about. Lotus tells the story of a young black man named Reed. Reed is faced with the ultimate decision of his young adult life: to attend college or succumb to the social pressures of his inner-city reality? The Lotus cast includes talent such as Nathaniel Williams as Book, Natasha M. Gallop as Nina, and Yanna Bishop-Crocker as Mays. The film also features rising Miami stars, comedian and social media influencer Devontae Tp Miller and Ja’hi White. Within its narrative, Lotus delivers a powerful and empowering message for young Black youth, inspiring them to discover their own self-potential and to surpass bleak circumstances despite obstacles. We wanted to create Lotus to express our unique perspectives of growing up in inner-city Miami. We also wanted to create something that would inspire our people to pursue opportunities for growth and self prosperity. Within the film, we put a spin on stereotypes. We wanted in-depth profoundness to radiate through characters that come off visually as everyday people. The film represents what young adults go through while trying to navigate through life and having to make critical choices for themselves. Lotus is currently streaming on Amazon Prime.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
The filmmaking process is extremely difficult. Especially when you want to create the best of your potential. My team and I managed the difficult parts and ultimately succeeded, which I am grateful for. We accomplished what not to many where we are from have done. It’s an humbling feeling.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I, Samuel Lee Fudge, served as Writer, executive producer, director and lead actor of our film, Lotus. Typically I’m known for just acting on camera, but through lotus, I was able to exercise my directing muscle. As director it was my responsibility to set an general and overall vision for the film, from the colors we use in wardrobe to the music we selected for the score. To include, my main job was to make sure the story of Lotus was articulate as possible.

Pricing:

• $2.99 to Rent

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.amazon.com/Lotus-Samuel-Lee-Fudge/dp/B08JZ21Y99/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=lotus+film&qid=1611277197&sr=8-1
• Instagram: @lotusfilm2020
• Youtube: https://youtu.be/orv6ZsV6PCk

Image Credits
Symone Titania Major – Lotus Poster Photographer