Diaspora, by Director Tyler Mckenzie Evans, is a horror/thriller that raises conversation a bout gentrification and the housing crisis. The film follows a couple in a Black suburb, confused, as their neighbors are suddenly replaced by white families. When they are able to figure out what is truly happening, it might just be too late.
We are so excited to present Tyler Mckenzie Evans on our “5 Questions With” series, explaining more about Diaspora.
To look out for more interviews like this, be sure to check out our BitPix.
What inspired you to start making films?
I lived in a mundane suburb and every few days my friends and I decided to go to the movie theatre. I loved the emotions that great films were able to pull out of me. The experience life through someone else’s perspective and being able to see countries I’ve never been to before, that inspired me to be a filmmaker. I’ve always wanted to make films that captured captivating characters, worlds and create discussion with audience members.
Were there any challenges in making this project?
The biggest challenge during the making of this film and any film has always been feeling as though we didn’t have enough time. I always wish we had one more hour or one more day, but I think that added pressure of being on the clock makes my brain the most creative and efficient it can be when it comes to filmmaking. If I had unlimited time this film probably still wouldn’t be done.
Is there any type of message or emotion that you hope the viewer takes away from watching this film?
I hope to create a conversation around gentrification going on in black and brown neighbourhoods as well as the housing crisis that we have been facing over several years. This is topic that I’m really passionate about and I believe is a major issue in our economy. I hope this is something we are able to fix in the years to come.
How does it feel to be able to screen the film at HollyShorts?
It’s such an honour to be screening at such a prestigious festival as HollyShorts. This is my first film in the festival and I’m excited to be able to show my film to people in Hollywood, I hope everyone enjoys it as I did making it.
What’s on the horizon for you?
I’m working on a loose feature adaptation of Diaspora as well as another feature and tv series that I’m developing. Hopefully I can bring one of these projects to production soon!
Thank you so much, Tyler, for sharing your responses! Moreover, be sure to check out Diaspora at the upcoming HollyShorts 2023 Film Festival on August 19th at 12am for “Midnight Madness II.” Click here to get tickets for the 19th Annual HollyShorts Film Festival, running from August 10th – August 19th at the TCL Chinese 6 Theatres.
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