Writer. Storyteller. Now, director. In this episode, we sit down with Shia Shabazz Smith as she shares her evolution from crafting narratives on the page to bringing them to life on screen. Dive into the making of her striking directorial debut, the short film Dawn—a haunting, visually poetic exploration of how one unexpected encounter, can change your — forever.

Shia opens up about the leap from solo writer to collaborative leader, the challenges of independent filmmaking, and how her literary roots shape her cinematic voice. Plus, she reveals what’s next in the post production of Dawn, the short film. We look forward to having Shia back when the film is released!!

Check out https://dawnshortfilm.com for updates!

Credits

Producer/Director: Trent Hanible

Producer: Aneesah Dryver

Producer/Co-Host: Jesse Kuba

Producer/Co-Host: Taylor-Anne Harris

DP: Evan Lee

Cam Op1: Yinka Adeboyejo

Cam Op2: Marcus Dupree

Gaffer: Siraj Fowler

Set Designer: Tehan Davis

1st AD: Ileana Contreras

Associate Producer: Addae Hill

BTS: Aneesah Dryver

Sound Engineer: Kenneth Eugene Brian

Music Composition: Jay Anthony

Special Thanks to Ciel Creative Space https://cielcreativespace.com

This podcast is presented by Black Film Connect, a collective empowering Black filmmakers and storytellers. For more info check us out at www.blackfilmconnect.com Follow us at:Instagram: @blackfilmconnectTik Tok: @sideshowpod