"Hairitage" is not just a film; it's a captivating exploration of black hair, self-discovery, and love. In this cinematic journey, we follow the main character, portrayed by the talented writer Philicia Saunders, as she navigates the complexities of her own hair and identity. The film kicks off with a surprising encounter with a white makeup artist and hairstylist, setting the stage for a narrative that resonates with the experiences of many black actors. Having collaborated with Philicia and co-director Roger Q. Mason on previous projects, I was eagerly anticipating their next venture together.
Philicia's inspiration for "Hairitage" stems from a real-life experience where a well-intentioned comment about working with black hair led to delays on a film set. Having previously worked with Philicia on the powerful one-woman show "Breathe," co-directed by Roger Q. Mason, I was familiar with their commitment to storytelling that delves into the nuances of the black experience. To avoid spoilers, I won't divulge too much about the film's plot, but it promises to be a thought-provoking and resonant piece.
As a white composer engaging with the subject of black hair, I recognized the importance of conveying emotions and experiences authentically. Drawing from my personal journey as a bald man, I aimed to make the film's themes relatable across diverse audiences. The opening score captures the anxiety of the dressing room, utilizing the sound of lap slaps to maintain tension. Addressing the challenge of weaving the experiences of three other black women into the score without revealing too much, the film's climax and subsequent revelation are handled with finesse. The final cue, designed to feel like a warm hug from a grandmother, reinforces the film's emotional impact.
Here are the details of the upcoming world premiere!
🎬 World Premiere Details:
📅 Date: February 8th, Thursday ⏰ Time: 1:15pm
📅 Date: February 13th, Tuesday ⏰ Time: 4pm
📍 Location: Cinemark Baldwin Hills Crenshaw
🎟️ Ticket information has been revealed, and you can secure your seats now!
Working on "Hairitage" was a joyous experience, thanks to the trust placed in me by Philicia and Roger. The film's stunning visuals, captured by Keith Nixon Jr., provided a rich canvas for my musical contributions. Collaborating on set and during post-production with editor Olivia Eliseo was a testament to the creativity and receptiveness of the entire team. Philicia and Roger's collaborative spirit inspires and drives the independent film community, creating work that leaves a lasting impact.
"Hairitage" is not just a film; it's a testament to the power of collaboration and storytelling. I'm excited to share this behind-the-scenes glimpse into my process of scoring films, and I hope it gives readers insight into the intricate and collaborative nature of the craft.
Follow my journey and stay updated on future projects by connecting on Instagram: @dgonzalezmusic. As I revive my blog after a two-year hiatus, I'll be sharing more about my writing style and collaborative approach with each new project. Your support and engagement are invaluable as I strive to bring more stories to life through music.