I am so happy to share that David Oyelowo’s directorial debut, THE WATER MAN, premieres today! It was one of my favorite films of 2020 and, after screening it last year at the Urbanworld Film Festival, I couldn’t wait until it was released nationwide.
Starring Oyelowo, Rosario Dawson, Amiah Miller, and Lonnie Chavis, The Water Man tells the story of Gunner (Chavis), an artistic kid who has a close relationship with his mom (Dawson), who is battling cancer, but a strained one with his father (Oyelowo). When his mother’s illness takes a turn for the worst, Gunner sets out on a quest with local guide Jo (Miller) to locate a mythical figure called “The Water Man,” whom he believes holds the secret to everlasting life.
After last year’s festival, here’s what I shared on the site about the film, “A gorgeously crafted story, with stunning visuals, the film covers various dark themes – such as terminal illness and abuse – in such a delicate manner that it still qualifies as appropriate for family viewing. It’s grounded and fantastical enough for younger audiences, and intelligent enough for adults.”
And after watching it a second time last week, those sentiments still ring true. So, I was ecstatic when I got to sit down virtually with the AAFCA fam and stars Lonnie Chavis and David Oyelowo to chat about the film.
Sharing everything from the inspirations for the film and the magnitude of Lonnie, at age 11, carrying the film as lead, the talk is as informational as it is entertaining.
Take a listen below and drop a thought or two in the comments to let me know your thoughts.
THE WATER MAN opened today, Friday, May 7, in theaters and is available to stream via Premium video on demand.
Until next thought, Thomasena
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