Meet Fitzroy Powell of Huntsville, AL

Today we’d like to introduce you to Fitzroy Powell.

Hi Fitzroy, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m Fitzroy Powell, an award-winning filmmaker and the founder of Kleek Studios. My journey began in Kingston, Jamaica, where I started my career as a freelance video editor after being self-taught in my early years as a filmmaker. During that time, I worked on several popular TV shows and music videos for leading reggae and dancehall artists, which helped shape both my technical abilities and creative vision.

In 2013, I migrated to the United States, where I continued to grow my craft and expand into new roles, developing skills in photography, videography, and TV production. In 2022, I graduated from Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama with a BA in Communication (Film and TV) and a minor in Business (Entrepreneurship). I graduated with a 3.8 GPA, earned Magna Cum Laude honors, and was named the 2021–2022 Film and TV Student of the Year. During that period, I also created my award-winning documentary “The Man Who Killed Jim Crow” and received several recognitions, including the 2024 Sonscreen Award for Best Archival Research.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked across a wide range of genres, including short films, documentaries, commercials, television, and live productions. I’ve also gained hands-on experience in multiple aspects of filmmaking such as editing, cinematography, writing, directing, and producing, which has allowed me to develop a well-rounded understanding of the entire creative process from concept to completion.

Presently, I am more focused on writing and directing, with my creative goal centered on blending documentary storytelling with narrative drama. I am passionate about telling stories based on actual events, combining factual depth with cinematic storytelling to create films that explore social justice and the human experience.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. As an immigrant, coming to the U.S. was a huge adjustment. I had to learn a whole new culture and way of life. Being self-taught in the early years gave me a foundation, but it also meant I didn’t have a formal guide or network right away. Once I got here, building connections took time. I had to seek out people in the industry and find ways to grow despite not being in a major film hub.

Getting into school was another hurdle. It took a lot of persistence, applications, and financial planning. And even once I got into Oakwood University in Huntsville, a smaller city, the opportunities for film were limited. But even in that environment, I kept pushing. I kept learning, creating, and seeking out every chance to develop my craft. Today, I’m proud that I’ve been able to sustain myself here in Huntsville, and I continue to grow, create, and push my storytelling to new heights.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in blending documentary filmmaking with dramatic storytelling. As a Jamaican and African-American male and an immigrant, I bring a distinct perspective shaped by these cultures. I am driven by a passion for bringing real human experiences to life with emotional depth. What I am most proud of is being able to bring these dual cultural lenses to my work, crafting films that explore the human experience, identity, and the power of connection. Overall, my work reflects a deep commitment to storytelling that is both personal and widely resonant.

Currently, I’ve completed a documentary titled Curated, which highlights The Curated Gallery here in Huntsville, an art space dedicated to amplifying emerging talent and underrepresented voices. The film is finished and set to be released soon, and at a test screening at The Green Room Film Festival, it won the Audience Choice Award of the night.
In addition, I have a passion project in development, my first major TV series, which I wrote about three years ago and am actively seeking funding to bring to life. The project blends documentary-style research with dramatic storytelling and reflects the niche I’m continuing to develop.
I’m also working on “Film in Alabama,” an initiative with my good friend and collaborator Julian Waddell. Together, we’re partnering with local filmmakers, community leaders, local investors, and engaging with the state to help build a stronger film ecosystem across Alabama. As part of that effort, we’ve launched a website (filminalabama.com) and an Instagram page (@filminalabama) to connect creatives with resources, from crew members like makeup artists and cinematographers to training opportunities and industry support. I’m excited about the direction these projects are heading and look forward to what’s ahead.

Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I think one of the most important qualities to my success is that I’m a perfectionist. I’m deeply driven and incredibly focused. When I set my mind to something, I follow through, and I consistently set goals for myself, ensuring I reach them and always push to surpass them. I love receiving feedback because it helps me grow, and I’m always open to constructive criticism. I’m also dedicated to helping others with their projects, which in turn pushes me to refine my own craft. It’s that constant cycle of setting high standards, being open to growth, and striving for excellence that really drives my success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.fitzroypowell.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kleekstudios