Meet Daquan Chavers | Film Student/Independent Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Daquan Chavers and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daquan, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued an artistic and creative career because I’ve always felt a strong connection to storytelling and the power it holds to influence, inspire, and entertain. My passion was truly ignited during my time in Mrs. Ivory’s Creative Writing class, where I learned to express myself and articulate my thoughts through the written word. This experience opened my eyes to the broader spectrum of creative arts.

However, it wasn’t until I found myself on the set of “The Walking Dead,” amidst the orchestrated chaos and the creative symphony of filmmaking, that I realized where my true calling lay. Being an extra on set was exhilarating, but observing the directors, cinematographers, and the crew meticulously craft each shot and bring the story to life behind the scenes was transformative for me. In those moments, I understood the immense potential of filmmaking to shape narratives and create immersive experiences for audiences.

Wanting to be behind the camera, to be one of those who weave stories into visual tapestries, I embarked on a journey to learn everything I could about film and video production. Moving to Georgia, a burgeoning hub for film and television, was a strategic decision to immerse myself in an environment that could foster my growth in this industry. With every class at Atlanta Tech, every lesson at Georgia Film Academy, and every project at the Digitao Film Academy, I have been building a foundation of knowledge and skills that I’m now expanding at Full Sail University.

Choosing a creative career wasn’t just about following a passion; it was about embracing a form of expression that felt intrinsic to who I am. It’s about the desire to contribute to the cultural landscape, to tell stories that resonate and reflect the human experience. Every step I take in this journey is driven by the conviction that through creativity, we can connect with others on a profound level, and there’s nothing more rewarding than that.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is rooted in the power of storytelling through film. What sets me apart is my dedication to authenticity and my deep-seated desire to explore the nuances of the human condition. I am most proud of my ability to bring diverse narratives to the screen, especially those that challenge viewers to think critically about the world around them.

I’ve arrived at this point in my professional journey through relentless learning and a tireless work ethic. It hasn’t been easy; breaking into the film industry requires persistence and resilience. I’ve faced rejection, financial constraints, and the steep learning curve that comes with mastering both the technical and creative aspects of filmmaking.

To overcome these challenges, I’ve focused on building a strong network of collaborators and mentors while continuously honing my craft through education and practical experience. I’ve learned that adaptability, patience, and openness to feedback are crucial in this line of work.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am committed to creating films that not only entertain but also inform and inspire. Each project is a labor of love, aiming to leave a lasting impact on its audience. My story is one of perseverance, learning from each setback, and pushing forward with an unwavering passion for film.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d want them to experience the vibrant culture, history, and entertainment the city has to offer.

**Day 1: Welcome to ATL**
– Breakfast at The Flying Biscuit Cafe for some classic Southern comfort food.
– Head to the Georgia Aquarium to marvel at the aquatic life.
– Lunch at The Varsity for an iconic Atlanta fast-food experience.
– Spend the afternoon at Centennial Olympic Park and visit the World of Coca-Cola.
– Dinner at Mary Mac’s Tea Room to enjoy traditional Southern dishes.

**Day 2: History and Heritage**
– Start with breakfast at Home Grown, known for its local fare.
– Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.
– Have lunch at Paschal’s Restaurant, famous for its civil rights history and soul food.
– Explore the exhibits at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
– Enjoy dinner at Busy Bee Cafe, another Atlanta staple for Southern cuisine.

**Day 3: Arts and Culture**
– Breakfast at Sun in My Belly to energize the day.
– Visit the High Museum of Art to check out contemporary works and classics.
– Lunch in Midtown, at Café Intermezzo for a European coffeehouse experience.
– Spend the afternoon in the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, exploring local art installations.
– Dinner at Ponce City Market, which offers a variety of food stalls and restaurants.

**Day 4: Film and Television Tour**
– Breakfast at West Egg Cafe.
– Take a tour of film locations around Atlanta, including spots from “The Walking Dead” and Marvel films.
– Grab a quick bite at a food truck park.
– Visit the Atlanta Movie Tours for insider information on filming locations and movie trivia.
– Dinner and drinks at The Porter Beer Bar in Little Five Points.

**Day 5: Outdoor Adventures**
– Start with a light breakfast at Arden’s Garden for a fresh juice or smoothie.
– Spend the day hiking or visiting Stone Mountain Park for the scenic views and outdoor activities.
– Lunch at Stone Mountain’s Waterside Restaurant.
– In the evening, unwind at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, especially if they have a special evening event.
– Dinner at Canoe, nestled along the Chattahoochee River.

**Day 6: Sports and Recreation**
– Brunch at Buttermilk Kitchen.
– Catch an Atlanta Braves game at Truist Park or an Atlanta United FC soccer match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
– Have some barbecue at Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, a local favorite.
– Visit Topgolf for an evening of fun and games.
– End the night with live music at Eddie’s Attic in Decatur.

**Day 7: Leisure and Goodbyes**
– A leisurely brunch at Ria’s Bluebird to savor the final day.
– Stroll through the historic Oakland Cemetery and admire its art and architecture.
– Enjoy the afternoon in Little Five Points, shopping at the quirky boutiques.
– Wrap up the trip with a farewell dinner at Staplehouse for a memorable dining experience.

Throughout the week, I’d sprinkle in visits to local breweries, coffee shops, and the occasional jazz lounge or speakeasy, ensuring we soak up the full Atlanta vibe. Atlanta is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own character, so it’s great to explore areas like East Atlanta Village, Virginia Highlands, and the Westside Provisions District. With this itinerary, we’d hit the highlights and discover why Atlanta is considered the cultural capital of the New South.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely, I’d love to give a shoutout to the incredible individuals who have played a pivotal role in my journey. First and foremost, I must extend my deepest gratitude to Aundrilla Jones of DKK Boutique. Not only did she refer me to Shoutout Atlanta, but she’s also a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and creativity through her work in crocheting and more. Her support has been invaluable, and her success continues to inspire me.

I also want to recognize Reggie Jackson of 12 Knight Films. He was instrumental in my transition from concept to reality, helping me to make my very first short film, “Fear Thy Father.” Reggie’s guidance, patience, and belief in my vision gave me the confidence to step into the role of a filmmaker and to tell the stories burning within me.

A shoutout is equally due to Brian Healy of CineGistic Media, who delivered a powerful performance as the lead in “Fear Thy Father.” His talent in front of the camera brought the narrative to life and his dedication to the craft is something I deeply admire and appreciate.

Lastly, but certainly not least, I want to give a big shoutout to Gregoire Vincent, who came through in a big way to help me film “Held Against My Will.” His skills behind the camera and his willingness to collaborate were crucial to the production. His eye for detail and commitment to quality filmmaking were key to the success of this project.

Without these individuals, my journey would have been much more challenging. They have each, in their own way, contributed to my growth as a filmmaker and as a person. Their support, mentorship, and encouragement have not gone unnoticed, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities to work with such talented and dedicated professionals. Their impact on my story is a reminder that no one succeeds alone, and I’m lucky to have such a strong support system in my career.

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