After spending 26 years incarcerated, Brian Asey is dedicated to transforming his life—and the lives of others—through filmmaking.
In the seven months since his release, he has embraced every opportunity to pursue his passion for multimedia production while inspiring others transitioning from incarceration to engaged, creative citizenship. This campaign aims to raise funds to provide him with the essential tools—professional cameras, audio equipment, and editing software—needed to succeed as a freelance filmmaker, share healing and transformative stories, and continue building on his remarkable journey.
How I Know Brian
I first met Brian in 2016 while he was producing, directing and editing the first TEDx San Quentin. I was immediately struck by his strong work ethic and technical expertise. Over the years, I’ve seen Brian grow both as a filmmaker and a mentor to others, channeling his talents into restorative storytelling. I featured him in a story about SQ's media lab for PBS NewsHour. We stayed in touch throughout the pandemic, and I was continually impressed with his dedication to learning and healing. Today, I am honored to support his reentry into society and witness him pursue his dream of a film career.
A New Chapter: Accomplishments Since His Release
Brian’s post-release journey has been extraordinary, marked by several key achievements:
- Co-producer & Director of the San Quentin Film Festival: The first-ever industry-standard film festival inside a U.S. prison, covered by The New York Times, LA Times, and top industry publications.
- Production Fellow / Producer / Audio Engineer at KALW Radio & Uncuffed Podcast: Brian has taken on multiple roles, applying his multimedia skills in radio and video storytelling.
- Student at San Francisco State University: Brian is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Cinema and a Minor in Reentry through Project Rebound.
- Emerging Leadership Fellow with the Center for Employment Opportunities: This six-month fellowship supported Brian’s development as a media professional and leader.
- Kaleidoscope Leadership Cohort Fellowship: aimed at challenging stereotypes, fostering trust, and building connections among diverse Bay Area changemakers.
- Recipient of the Superfest Disability Film Festival Advocacy Award for his role as co-producer, editor, and director of photography of Friendly Signs.
Film Accomplishments at San Quentin
Brian’s passion for storytelling blossomed during his time at San Quentin, where he accomplished the following:
- Co-producer, Director, and Editor of TEDx San Quentin: Directed a complex, multi-camera shoot, and one of the event’s videos has since garnered millions of views online.
- Co-producer, editor, and director of photography for Friendly Signs: Co-produced with Rahsaan Thomas and Christine Yoo, this award-winning film has been featured in numerous film festivals.
- Featured Cinematographer: Brian’s work has been included in several successful award-winning films including Q Ball, More Than Basketball, and 26.2 TO LIFE.
- Manager of the San Quentin Warriors Basketball Program: Managed a 40-and-over basketball league as part of a broader rehabilitation effort. Produced a short film about the program for San Quentin News.
- Executive Director of the San Quentin Prison Report: Managed video operations at SQTV producing PSAs for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) that aired on closed-circuit TV throughout the prison system. One of his most impactful projects came during the COVID-19 pandemic. Noticing that many incarcerated individuals were hesitant to get vaccinated due to a lack of trust in the prison administration, Brian pitched a solution: bringing in outside medical experts to address their concerns. “They came in, they answered the questions, and as a result, seven of the guys ended up getting vaccinated," Brian recalls. His video documenting the event was broadcast not only within San Quentin but across the entire California prison system, potentially saving lives statewide. Brian also dedicated himself to mentoring other incarcerated individuals, passing on his skills in filmmaking and multimedia production.
Help Brian Build His Film Production Career
Brian is ready to take his next steps as a filmmaker, but he needs your help to get there. The following tools are essential for him to create high-quality films, collaborate with industry professionals, and grow his freelance business. He is committed to telling the authentic stories of the incarcerated and their rehabilitation while crafting powerful narratives for everyone. Your contribution will empower him to build a sustainable career and continue to inspire others through storytelling and mentorship.
What Your Support Will Fund
Camera Equipment
- Sony FX6 Digital Cinema Camera w/ full accessories including 1 Zoom lens, batteries, viewfinder, carrying case, ND filters, etc
- Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 Art Lens
- Sony FX3 Full-Frame Cinema Line Camera with DJI RS 3 Pro Combo Gimbal
- FLYCAM Flowline Master Professional Support Vest for Camera & Gimbals
- SMALLHD Indie 5 Camera Monitor with Daylight-Viewable 5-Inch Touchscreen Display, 1000nits Brightness
- Sachtler aktiv10T Touch & Go Fluid Head Tripod with SpeedLevel & 7-Step Drag
- SmallRig AD-100 FreeBlazer Heavy-Duty Carbon Fiber Tripod with video head
- SmallRig Professional Accessory Kit with Cage and NATO Handle for BMPCC 6K PRO OB
- Sony FX3/Fx30 Rabbit Cage Expansion Kit Cine back
- SmallRig Cage Kit for Sony FX6 (V-Mount)
- SmallRig VB99 Mini V-Mount Battery (99Wh)
- Protective cases for gear
- Extra batteries and memory cards
Audio Gear
- Zoom H6 Recorder
- Sennheiser Shotgun Microphone
- Wireless Lavalier Microphone System
- Miscellaneous cables: XLR, 3/4 inch, HDMI, extension cords
- Blimp Windshield with shock suspension
- Graphite boom pole
Lighting
- LED Light Panels with Stands:
- Portable Softbox Lighting Kit
Editing
- Sandisk professional RAID drive
- Adobe Creative Cloud Subscription
Join Us in Supporting Brian’s Film Career
Brian’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and dedication. From co-producing award-winning films to leading San Quentin’s media efforts, he has proven that storytelling is his true calling. Please consider donating—every contribution will help Brian achieve his goals. Together, we can support his journey and ensure he has the tools he needs to create a new path forward as a filmmaker and returning citizen.
We will report back to you on fundraising goals and purchases.
Thank you!
Joanne
Organizer and beneficiary
Joanne J
Organizer
Oakland, CA
Brian Gonsoulin
Beneficiary