The Essence
ABOUT
Michael is a young music teacher plagued by depression brought on by his job, and the death of his mentor, Mr. C. While at his mentor’s viewing, Michael’s best friend, Jalen, suggests that they perform a karaoke tribute at the funeral. Hesistant, Michael questions whether or not he has The Essence, or confidence, to perform, as well as what it takes to move forward in life with the lessons Mr. C taught him.
YEAR 2018
RUN TIME 11:21 Min
EMAIL Bookerboy94@gmail.com Website:
CAST & CREW CREDITS
DIRECTED BY Theodore Booker
SCREENPLAY BY Theodore Booker
PRODUCED BY Theodore Booker
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY Ben Block
EDITED BY Theodore Booker
MUSIC BY Jonathan Valente
PRINCIPAL CAST
Jeff Tegeler | Theodore Booker
DIRECTOR’S STATEMENT
When I was an undergraduate, I had a funny English Professor who’d tell the class about his weekends and how he’d perform at his local karaoke spot. While his stories were super funny, I didn’t realize how serious he was until he performed for us on our last day of class. Equipped with confidence, vigor, and joy, my English Professor killed his performance, and struck my curiosity. Because of that fateful day, The Essence was born. The film explores grief, as well as the steps one takes to overcome it. It also shows how music can bring people together, and form meaningful relationships. I am a witness to it, and I hope the audience sees this through the eyes of my protagonist, and the bond that he and his mentor share.
DIRECTOR BIO
Theodore Booker is a director, writer, and rapper from Southern, Virginia, whose love for films and music started around middle school. In high school, he took it upon himself to learn how to shoot, and edit short music videos to get acquainted with filmmaking. Upon graduating, he was accepted to Stevenson University’s Film, Video, and Theatre program. He received his B.S. from Stevenson four years later, and is currently pursuing his M.F.A in Filmmaking at the Maryland Institute College of Art.
FILM AND PRODUCTION STILLS
AWARDS
FULL FILM
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
Theodore Booker is a director, writer, and rapper from Southern, Virginia, whose love for films and music started around middle school. In high school, he took it upon himself to learn how to shoot, and edit short music videos to get acquainted with filmmaking. Upon graduating, he was accepted to Stevenson University’s Film, Video, and Theatre program. He received his B.S. from Stevenson four years later, and is currently pursuing his M.F.A in Filmmaking at the Maryland Institute College of Art.
(Update provided in May 2018)