ABOUT THE FILM

"Watch Me" is an independent short-film drama inspired by true events. It follows a day in the life of two neighbors, Mikkal and Landon.

Two Homes. Same Block. One Heart.

Landon is a neurodivergent, minimally verbal teen seeking connection from a masculine male figure. Mikkal is an ex-addict fighting a fatal disease. Despite their differences, they form a powerful bond, becoming each other’s guardian angels.

CORE THEMES

"Watch Me" explores how brotherhood, temptation, and time running out collide. Even as challenging circumstances threaten to pull them apart, Mikkal and Landon always find their way back to each other.

If this film is successful, with your help, I'm excited to donate 10% of my proceeds to nonprofits that support neurodivergent youth education and drug-prevention initiatives in Black communities!

WHO AM I?

Hi there! My name is Ivana! About 10 years ago, I left GA for NYC, itching for a new beginning as a performer. So far, I've only been a model/actress, immersing myself in other people's vision. Sometimes it's rewarding, sometimes it's not...that's what led me here.

Now I'm taking control, stepping into the roles of writer and director! Building something that's personal and mine from the ground up!

"Watch Me" is the first film I'll carry from start to finish. Pulling straight from real-life experience, it leans into a distinct visual POV, gritty subject matter, and emotional core. What excites me the most is that, because of you, this project has the potential to be the first phase of something bigger! This story is an evolving world that can grow far beyond this project.

WHY THIS STORY

The main characters of the film, Mikkal and Landon, are inspired by my cousins, Mike and Lavery. Their relationship is one of the most compelling dynamics I’ve ever seen. Through their connection, I've witnessed unconditional black male love (a concept I wasn’t raised to fully understand).

I lived with Mike for years - adapting to his quirks, habits, and complexities. In the film, Mikkal’s relationship with Landon mirrors the one Mike has with me. It’s deeply loving and protective. Yes, he's done many bad things, and I'll expand on this more in future projects. But his instinct to protect and guide his loved ones is what defines him in my eyes.

As I direct this film, I’ll enjoy maintaining the authenticity of these characters, knowing the audience will fall in love with them, just as I have.

WHAT YOU'LL SEE

95% of the film will be shot from Landon’s first-person POV. Each scene will unfold through his eyes. What he sees, the viewer will see. Where he moves, the viewer will move.

While filming, special cameras and rigs will be essential to recreate his eyeline. Deliberate movements will shape how he perceives Mikkal and responds to his presence. Mikkal’s essence is the driving force of this film, but how Landon interacts and emotionally supports him is equally important.

Since Landon is minimally verbal, choosing this visual POV felt like a natural extension of his character. It also gives a subtle nod to the film's title, which I love most! However, it’ll still be a creative challenge to relay his emotions and reactions without relying on his words or facial expressions.

Tune in to see how it all turns out!

*The above photos are for reference use only*

WHERE YOUR SUPPORT GOES

WHAT'S NEXT?

With your support, this short film can act as a proof of concept for a mini-series or feature film. There are endless details, characters, and storylines I didn't explore within this version/adaptation.

For round two, I’d love to create more opportunities for people of color and explore my family’s migration from Jamaica to New York City in the 1970's. And as mentioned above, I'll continue to donate 10% of my proceeds to nonprofits that support neurodivergent youth education and drug-prevention initiatives in Black communities.

If you've made it this far, your support and time are priceless. Thank you for believing in me and allowing my creativity to soar!