By Avril Rowland
American Success Story – Micah BlackLight is a short film by JLove Calderón created for the American Success Series, a series that spotlights up and coming American innovators on a mission to make positive change. This success story is about Micah BlackLight, an artist with a talent for drawing, fashion design, and writing. The film lets Micah tell his story and explain his goal of inspiring those who can’t speak for themselves.
Micah is a fantastic choice of subject. Charming, infectiously positive, and artistically skilled in many areas, the short film leaves you wanting more of his attitude as much as his art (make sure you look at his gorgeous pen illustrations). Micah explains how he likes to push the boundaries of tradition and taboo while visually proving that claim with the fashion he wears and designs. The film does a great job elevating and channeling his energy to the audience.
The film could benefit from a stronger throughline. Capturing Micah’s energy is important, but the content does end up feeling sporadic. If we were following a small story, something like Micah explaining a new art piece or clothing design – that could be used to anchor the rest of the information we get about Micah’s worldview and artistic goals. This would ground the film and let us get to know Micah even better.Overall, American Success Story – Micah BlackLight is an enjoyable film with a great main character. I would rate this film four out of five stars.
Avril is a senior majoring in writing at the Savannah College of Art and Design. She aims to have a career publishing her writing one day.
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