Filmmakers focus on success
Debbie Origho, Staff Writer
Issue date: 1/19/06 Section: BUSINESS
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But for Aspire to Inspire Films co-owner, Imhotep Coleman, checking out movies is his life. Whenever Coleman views a movie, he says it is for three main reasons. First, he checks to see if he is familiar with the director and the director's past work or style. Then, Coleman tries to assess whether he is familiar with the main character and their past performances. Last, he tries to identify the quality of the content.
It may seem like a lot to go through just to enjoy a good movie, yet Coleman shares that it is well worth the time and effort in order to help him grow as a filmmaker and help boost sales in a
"cut-throat" business.
"Everyone can be a critic. Ebert and Roeper have the same social stance as far as any ordinary critic," explains Coleman. "You may not agree with everyone's film, but you should fight for the right for them to show it."
Aspire to Inspire Films is a video, TV production and film company that started as a result of three Howard graduates' friendship and passion for film. Coleman, with his wife, Alexis Coleman, and friend, James Baucom, launched the company last year.
"I like to do all types of films, and the industry I'm in does not really hire you right after college," Coleman explained. "There is a big market for quality films about African American culture, and we are here to fulfill that need. The African American-based audience is loyal - they will support black films."
Their first movie, "Gratuities Included," broke the ice when it was released in last April. Filmed at B Smith's restaurant in Washington, D.C., the film asked the simple question, "If the customer is always right then what am I?" The initial focus of the film is to understand the point of view of the restaurant servers, waitresses and waiters.
Coleman said that the first couple of months after they started the company were difficult.
"At the initial stages, trying to secure capital and private investors [was the hardest] because in this business you have to have credibility," explained Coleman, "The most important thing was making sure that everything was legally valid. The creative part was already there, so then once we got the shirts, business cards, and Web site, we were an official entity."
Coleman's advice to young entrepreneurs is to believe that you determine your own destiny.
"This country was made for entrepreneurs. You're also capable to inspire others through your business," Coleman said.
