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Q: As a contributor to Rolling Stone%u2019s Culture Council, you%u2019re actively engaged in cultural discourse. How do you see your role as a filmmaker intersecting with broader societal conversations and what responsibility do you feel in shaping narratives that reflect contemporary issues?For me, it%u2019s all about creating projects that capture the essence of contemporary issues or offer fresh perspectives on what%u2019s happening in society without hitting audiences over the head with it. For instance, my experience working on %u201cKaren%u201d was during a time when America was navigating some sensitive cultural territory. Life was imitating art in both good and challenging ways. It%u2019s about finding that delicate balance and weaving real-life experiences into our storytelling. As a person of color, myself, I%u2019m passionate about ensuring that our stories reflect diverse perspectives. After traveling the world, I%u2019ve come to realize more about what life is really all about, which is something I now feel compelled to infuse into my projects.Q: Your upcoming projects, %u201cWerewolf%u201d and %u201cBilly Knight,%u201d promise diverse narratives and talent. How do you envision them resonating with audiences?I hope %u201cWerewolves%u201d entertains the action/horror/thriller audience. I think it has those elements in it and will be successful in that regard. %u201cBilly Knight%u201d has coming-of-age and finding yourself elements to it. It%u2019s about dreams, aspirations, humanity, and the idea that what you think you%u2019re missing in your life may have actually been right in front of you all along.Q: Your portfolio includes collaborations with a diverse array of talents, from seasoned actors like Al Pacino to emerging stars like Charlie Heaton. How do you approach working with actors to bring your vision to life, regardless of their level of experience?I didn%u2019t direct either of them in %u201cBilly Knight.%u201d I was a producer on that film but I think it%u2019s about a team effort in guiding who%u2019s experienced, a veteran, versus who is newer to the table. It%u2019s also about providing creative freedom, taking risks, and remaining authentic. When you have someone like Al Pacino, you can count on him to bring his true self to the table. This creates an environment where younger talents can develop their skills alongside the seasoned actors. Working with such talented individuals really elevates everyone%u2019s performance. Ultimately, it%u2019s about maintaining that %u201ccreative bubble%u201d and managing expectations.86 MOST MAGAZINE - ISSUE 45