Show notes
We’re off to Kansas! Or… Ben is. He’s flying back to to Lawrence, Kansas, to interview one of his professors from his days at the University of Kansas — Academy Award-winning filmmaker and KU professor Kevin Willmott. Known for co-writing BLACKKKLANSMAN with Spike Lee, Wilmott shares personal stories of his journey from a young creative in Kansas to an Oscar award-winning filmmaker. This one is jam-packed with a wide-ranging discussion covering the power of cinema, activism, the impact of Black history, and the challenges of making films outside Hollywood — and the role of the teacher. Ben is filled-up with admiration and respect for Kevin Willmott and before the end of this one, you will be too! 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:01 Meeting Kevin Willmott 03:08 Kevin's Early Life and Influences 05:23 The Journey to Filmmaking 12:28 Activism and Filmmaking 20:27 CSA: Confederate States of America 29:46 Collaboration with Spike Lee 34:05 The Importance of Having a Follow-Up Project 35:11 Pitching 'Gotta Give It Up' to Hollywood 36:35 Collaborations and Career Milestones 40:22 The Impact of Black History on Filmmaking 44:08 Teaching and Building a Film Community 46:45 Challenges and Rewards of Independent Filmmaking 53:57 Facing Racism and Its Influence on Storytelling 59:43 Reflections on Activism and Filmmaking 01:05:39 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts