Recapping ‘a Short Break’ With Director, Writer, & Producer Jerry LaMothe

This week on ‘a Short Break’ we watched the short film The Tombs by Director, Writer, & Producer Jerry LaMothe. LaMothe, who currently wrapped his new UMC series Terror Lake Drive turned a real-life encounter into a short film that highlights a sad and puzzling reality for many African-American males in Brooklyn and around the country. If you missed the live interview, don’t fret as we captured a few highlights from the evening below!

Introducing a new virtual show a Short Break where host Damien D. Smith and co-host Emma J. show the best short films in its entirety and then replay with a live director’s cut where you, the audience are able to interact and ask questions to your favorite filmmakers! Tune in every Sunday at 4PM PT / 7PM ET to join in on the LIVE conversation via Facebook Live and YouTube Live.

How did you feel wrapping the first project you ever directed?

Jerry LaMothe: I would have to say grueling, exhausted. There is a sense of relief that you have something tangible that you can start to put together, to put a story in place, and bring it to realization. A sense of closure, a sense of accomplishment, and a mix of different emotions. 

What was your inspiration for your opening shot?

Jerry LaMothe: Several things, I wanted it to be an initiation of what will be almost a signature of mine. I wanted it to be an attention grabber. 

What was the importance of shining light on mental stability in The Tombs? 

Jerry LaMothe: It was from personal experience, going through the system for 24-48 hours. You have brothers out here who’ve done 5,10, 20 years for a crime that they didn’t even commit. To do time is one thing but imagine doing time for something you really and genuinely didn’t commit. To start to unravel within 24 hours, because none of this is normal, I wanted to show that there is no shame in being uncomfortable in that state because it’s not for human consumption, it’s not natural. 

What was your process behind creating the different characters of The Tombs?

Jerry LaMothe: The best pieces are always semi-autobiographical, always come from a real place, and come from experiences. I think as an artist in any situation or circumstance we see it and take it all in like a sponge. When I knew I was going to make a short my mind went back to me going through the system and the different personalities I encountered and the different brothers I met. 

Watch the full clip on Facebook and Youtube now, plus listen on Spotify! Don’t forget to watch previous episodes with directors Terron Jones and Tracy Taylor-Dwyer!

Follow a Short Break on Instagram @aShortBreak4910, @DamienDSmith, @FromEmmaJ, and @4910RosalieProd 

a 4910 Rosalie Production www.4910Rosalie.com

See you every Sunday at 4PM PT / 7PM ET!