Meet Jamal Evans | Director & Producer

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

Hi Jamal, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Ever since elementary school, I’ve been creating stories writing them in my journal and even presenting them to the class. My mom always encouraged me, telling me I had a talent and buying me books to help expand my imagination. When senior year of high school came around, while most of my classmate’s pursued business, I chose a path where I could fully explore my creativity and deepen my understanding of film. That’s why I decided to major in Film and Television. I’ve always wanted to tell stories that not only offer an escape from the chaos of everyday life but also create captivating worlds that inform and inspire. Visual storytelling has always been my way of giving meaning to things of showing what we can become, or what we can imagine.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
One set I directed was called Waterboys. We were filming on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, and I was in charge of both producing and directing. I had gone location scouting and found what I thought was the perfect spot it fit the scene beautifully. But that was before the day of the shoot.

Everything that could’ve gone wrong did go wrong, and honestly, it was hilarious. People were walking through the set in the middle of takes, some even asking if they could be in the film! And don’t even get me started on the traffic. Despite all the chaos, I had to stay calm as a producer, making sure everyone was safe and doing okay.

In the end, we got everything we needed, and the team said they had a great time. But me? I still have PTSD from that day!

Throughout my time on set, I’ve worked in various positions PA, Grip, Sound Mixer, Director, etc. Each role taught me something valuable. I’ve learned that no matter how small a job may seem, everyone on set holds an important piece of the puzzle.

Freshman year of college, I was a boom operator on a three-day shoot in Macon, Georgia. I spent a lot of that time wondering if I was as valuable as the DP or the Director. But then I noticed something: the grips, the PAs, the script supervisor, the sound mixer. everyone was looking at me. They were all depending on me to get good sound and to stay out of the frame. That moment made me realize just how important my role really was. Even if it seems small, it plays a big part in the bigger picture. Don’t ever get discouraged.

If you ask how I got to where I am today, I’d say it’s a combination of hard work, family, and friends. Without them, I’d probably still be lying in bed, just daydreaming about bringing my visions to life. My friends gave me the connections and support I needed to meet like-minded people. My family has helped me financially, mentally, and emotionally every step of the way.

Right now, I’m writing a passion project called Skateclub for my senior capstone. It’s something that I’m pouring my heart into. It’s just the beginning, but I’m excited to see where it takes me. I want the world to know about my work and about myself as if I have a vision, it’s not just my thoughts and feelings going into this project. It’s my audience, my actors, my crew, and how they relate and respond to this 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.
BarTaco, Grindhouse Burger, JJ Fish and Chicken, and Rumi’s Kitchen would be food stops on their visit. The hangout spot in Atlanta is underground for the party scene.

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?
Tralyn Evans a future lawyer and Dean’s List student has always given me a shoulder to lean on. I’ve watched you overcome obstacles with strength and grace, never once changing your character to please anyone. That kind of resilience has inspired me in more ways than I can count.

Soleimi Rodriguez (Graphic Designer) is a true creative soul. Her work is powerful and deserving of more recognition. One standout piece is the mural she created for the Choctaw Tribe’s 80th anniversary, which was featured on WTOK-11 News. Through vibrant lettering and imagery, she beautifully portrayed the tribe’s culture from their food and clothing to their traditional dances. Soleimi pours her heart into everything she creates, and she truly understands what it means to give meaning and life to art.

Mitchell Bianconi (Graphic Designer) has supported me more than anyone during my time in college. He’s a humble and dedicated artist whose attention to detail and deep appreciation for artistic research continues to motivate me. Mitchell is someone I truly admire and will always strive to keep in my corner.

Instagram: https://jde.eva

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamal-evans-ii-559178238/