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

Hi Kas, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
What was my thought process behind starting my own business?
Starting One Sol Film Company wasn’t just a career move—it was a deeply personal decision driven by a lifelong passion for storytelling and a desire for creative ownership. For years, I had been developing original ideas, writing scripts, and refining concepts, but I realized that true creative freedom only comes when you have control over your own intellectual property (IP).

I’ve always been inspired by visionary filmmakers who built their own paths, people like Ridley Scott, Steven Spielberg, and more recently, Denis Villeneuve. These directors had the power to bring their unique visions to life, and I knew that if I wanted to do the same, I needed to establish my own production company.

A few key factors solidified my decision:

Creative Control & Ownership – I wanted to tell stories the way I envisioned them, without compromising my artistic integrity. Owning my IP ensures that my projects remain true to my vision and purpose.

Bridging Innovation & Tradition – I love the classic foundations of filmmaking—cinematography, lighting, storytelling structure—but I also embrace emerging technology, like AI-driven tools, virtual production, and 3D animation pipelines. Creating my own company allowed me to experiment with these innovations without constraints.

Building a Legacy – I wanted to create something lasting—not just for myself, but for my family and future generations. One Sol Film Company isn’t just about making films; it’s about leaving behind stories that resonate and inspire.

Faith & Purpose – I’ve always believed that storytelling is a calling—a way to explore deep human themes and connect with audiences on a profound level. My faith has been a guiding force in my journey, and One Sol Film Company is a reflection of that purpose.

Starting this business was a leap of faith, but I knew it was time. I had spent years refining my craft, learning the industry, and building a strong foundation. Now, it’s about taking those stories that have lived in my mind for years and bringing them to life on screen—on my own terms.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What Sets Me Apart & My Journey to Where I Am Today
I think what sets me apart is my ability to blend creativity, technology, and discipline into everything I do. I’m not just a filmmaker—I’m someone who understands the art and science of storytelling, someone who respects the foundations of classic filmmaking but isn’t afraid to experiment with cutting-edge innovation like AI, virtual production, and 3D animation pipelines.

My storytelling is deeply personal yet universal—whether I’m working in sci-fi, drama, or romance, my goal is always to create something real, something that makes people feel and think. I don’t write just to tell stories; I write to ask questions, to challenge perspectives, to explore the human condition in all its beauty and contradictions.

What I’m Most Proud Of & Excited About
I’m proud that I’ve stayed true to my vision. The stories I’m bringing to life today—films like The Council: Swan Song, The Redding Boys, and Ukaih: Legacy of the Swan—are projects I started shaping nearly a decade ago. Seeing them evolve from ideas to actual scripts and production is incredibly rewarding.

I’m also excited about the future of One Sol Film Company. This isn’t just a business—it’s a creative hub for meaningful storytelling. I want to push the boundaries of independent filmmaking while still keeping the heart of great cinema alive.

How Did I Get Here? Was It Easy?
The journey has been anything but easy. There have been setbacks, rejections, financial struggles, and moments of doubt. Breaking into the industry, especially as an independent filmmaker, takes resilience, patience, and an almost unreasonable belief in yourself.

One of my biggest challenges was balancing creativity with practicality. I had to learn how to structure my business, protect my IP, and navigate the complexities of filmmaking as both an artist and an entrepreneur. Many people love to create, but few take the steps to own and control their work. That’s something I fought for and will continue to do.

Another challenge has been navigating the industry as an introvert. I love deep work, reflection, and storytelling, but I also know that to bring my vision to life, I have to step out, connect, lead, and advocate for my projects. Reading Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain helped me embrace my natural way of working while also pushing me to develop the skills necessary to thrive in this business.

Faith has played a huge role in my journey. There were moments I questioned if I should even continue down this path, but every time, God showed me another door, another way forward. I’ve learned to trust the process, even when it’s uncertain.

At the same time, I’ve also learned that success means nothing if I’m not taking care of myself. I want to make sure that I stay healthy—mentally, physically, and spiritually—along the way. Creativity requires clarity, focus, and energy, and if I’m not at my best, neither is my work. This means prioritizing my well-being, maintaining balance, and making sure I’m showing up for myself just as much as I show up for my craft.

Lessons I’ve Learned Along the Way
1. Own Your Story – Whether in life or in business, never let someone else define your narrative. If you have a vision, protect it, build it, and nurture it.
2. Innovation & Tradition Can Coexist – Some people think it’s either old-school craftsmanship or modern technology, but I believe it’s both. The best stories are told when we respect the art and science of filmmaking.
3. Resilience is Everything – No one is going to hand you success. You have to show up, adapt, and push through obstacles, even when it feels impossible.
4. Faith & Purpose Matter – If your work isn’t connected to something greater than yourself, it’s easy to burn out. I create because it’s a calling, not just a career.

What Do I Want the World to Know About Me & My Brand?
I want people to know that One Sol Film Company is about more than just making movies—it’s about telling stories that matter.

I want to inspire a new generation of filmmakers who believe in artistic integrity, creative ownership, and pushing the boundaries of storytelling. I want my films to leave a lasting impact, whether that’s through challenging perspectives, sparking emotions, or simply reminding people of the power of a good story.

And personally? I want people to know that this journey is real. It’s built on faith, discipline, and a love for cinema that goes back to my childhood. I’m not here to follow trends—I’m here to build something that lasts.

The stories have lived in me for years—now it’s time to bring them to life, while making sure I take care of myself along the way.

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 were visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d craft an itinerary blending history, culture, photography, outdoor adventures, and incredible Black-owned food spots.

We’d start with powerful historical landmarks like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, followed by immersive art experiences at the High Museum of Art and Hammonds House Museum. Mornings would be filled with scenic hikes at Arabia Mountain, Sweetwater Creek, and Cascade Springs, perfect for photography, while afternoons would include shopping at The Village Market and Ponce City Market to support local Black-owned businesses.

The food stops would be unforgettable, with soul food from The Busy Bee Café, brunch at Breakfast at Barney’s, creative flavors at Twisted Soul, and plant-based bites from Slutty Vegan.

A day trip to Macon’s Tubman Museum would deepen the cultural experience, while peaceful walks along the BeltLine, Piedmont Park, and Jackson Street Bridge at sunset would provide the perfect backdrop for reflection and creativity.

The trip would be a mix of exploration, inspiration, and deep connection—celebrating Atlanta’s rich history, culinary excellence, and artistic soul.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Success is never achieved alone. Along my journey, I’ve been blessed with the support, guidance, and love of so many people and institutions that have helped shape me into the person I am today.

First and foremost, I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my mother and my grandmother. Their unwavering love, strength, and faith laid the foundation for everything I do. They instilled in me the values of perseverance, integrity, and hard work—lessons that continue to guide me in both life and business.

I also have to give thanks to God. My faith has been my anchor, providing clarity, purpose, and the courage to take bold steps, including starting my own film company. Every challenge I’ve faced, every door that’s opened, and every story I’ve been able to tell has been part of a greater plan.

A huge shoutout to the U.S. Army, which played a pivotal role in shaping my discipline, leadership, and resilience. My time in service taught me the importance of adaptability, problem-solving, and working under pressure—all of which have been invaluable in my creative journey.

And I have to acknowledge my high school drafting teacher, Mr. Small. He recognized something in me early on and encouraged me to explore the discipline of design. The way he pushed me to think critically and refine my craft still sticks with me today.

Each of these influences has left a lasting imprint on my life, and I carry their lessons with me in everything I create. One Sol Film Company is not just about filmmaking—it’s about honoring those who have contributed to my journey by telling meaningful, impactful stories.

Website: https://www.onesolfilmco.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesolfilm?igsh=cjIxZ2xpcXUybjI1

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/innovationdesign?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3B8lkulbG2T7Oda6cEZ%2BunOg%3D%3D

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneSolFilmCompany-LLC

Other: One Sol Film Company, LLC Linkedin Page – https://www.linkedin.com/company/one-sol-film-company-llc/?viewAsMember=true

TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@onesolfilmco?_t=8rl5lJovxOw&_r=1

Image Credits
All images are by Kasual Gadsden

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.