The UB Interview: Cast + Director Talk ‘Color Book’

Written and directed by David Fortune and Executive produced by Naturi Naughton-Lewis, “Color Book” is “a love letter to a community often overlooked and whose stories remain untold.”

Following an acclaimed world premiere at Tribeca Film Festival, “Color Book” is a moving portrait of Black fatherhood, exploring the relationship between a man and his son with Down syndrome.

Today November 21st, the film makes it’s premiere at the “Cucalorus Film Festival” in North Carolina through Saturday, November 23rd.

Following his wife’s recent passing, single father Lucky finds himself navigating the challenges of raising his son Mason, who has Down syndrome. Seeking solace, Lucky and Mason embark on a journey across Metro Atlanta to attend their first baseball game together.

Throughout their day-long trip, they encounter Murphy’s Law. From car breakdowns to missed trains, the duo faces a series of obstacles that test their relationship with each other. Despite the setbacks, they persevere, determined to reach the game.

“Color Book” provides an intimate portrait of a father and son while exploring the experiences of raising a child with Down syndrome, highlighting the strength and resilience that emerge from their bond.

Directors Statement: David Fortune

“Why do we create images?” This question was posed by one of my directing peers. During the production of Color Book, I embraced it as a challenge and made it a mantra every day on set. This question became deeply ingrained in my heart as the focus was not just to write films but to craft images of love, intimacy, compassion, vulnerability, sensitivity, and hope within the Black American experience.

Color Book challenges the narrative of absentee fathers and men devoid of emotions by offering a glimpse into the life of a single Black dad raising his son with a disability. Growing up, I viewed Black men as present figures and leaders within our communities, contrary to the stereotype of absenteeism. It was crucial to reshape societal perceptions of Black men and allow audiences to see the shared humanity in us all. In addition to masculinity, Color Book also delves into the experiences of individuals with Down syndrome in Black communities.

Despite recent films spotlighting disability, few have showcased the lives and perspectives of Black people. It was important to advocate and help amplify voices that often go unheard through the art of cinema. Our mission was to place these lives and experiences in the center frame rather than on the edge of it. Just as it was important for us to make a social statement through the film, it was just as vital to create a visual piece of art that depicted Black people with integrity. While many films set in working-class communities adopt a gritty tone and aesthetic, I aimed to capture the silent beauty and tenderness of Atlanta. I wanted the visual essence of Color Book to exude a meditative, still, and quiet tone as it portrays the loving relationship between a father and son.

The monochromatic visuals reflect the calm essence of metro Atlanta and emphasize the nuances of the relationship between Lucky and Mason. Ultimately, Color Book is a love letter to a community often overlooked and whose stories remain untold. Through our film, we aspire to capture the essence of their lives in a beautiful story that resonates with us all. This is why I create images.

Actor’s Statement: William Catlett

As an actor, I am drawn to roles that challenge me to explore the depths of the human experience, and Lucky is no exception. His story of navigating grief after the loss of his wife while shouldering the responsibility of raising his son with Down syndrome resonates with me on a deeply personal level. Drawing from my own experiences as a father of two, I was able to tap into the emotions and complexities of Lucky’s journey with authenticity and empathy.

“Color Book” provides a unique opportunity to shed light on the often overlooked experiences of black fathers, particularly those raising children with special needs. Through Lucky’s journey, we challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and celebrate the strength and resilience of families facing adversity. I was committed to honoring Lucky’s journey with depth, authenticity, and compassion. Working alongside director David Fortune and the talented team behind “Color Book,” I was inspired by the opportunity to bring this important story to life.

David had a clear vision that was silent, intimate and poetic. I was honored to collaborate with a talented and budding filmmaker such as himself. Building on my previous roles in films like “A Thousand and One” and TV series such as “Black Lightning,” this marks my first leading role—a milestone in my career that I am incredibly grateful for. Through this film, I hope to spark meaningful conversations, foster greater understanding, and shine a light on the beauty and humanity within every family, regardless of the challenges they face. “Color Book” is more than just a film—it is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the bonds that unite us all.

The Cast: William Catlett, Jeremiah Daniels, Brandee Evans, Terri J. Vaughn, Njema Williams, Kia Shine Coleman, Joseph Curtis Callender, Romeo Romero, Lynne Ashe, Déjà Dee, Candy McLellan, Rhonda Johnson Dents, Rodney Perry, Ava Colvin, Adrian Jones, Alonzo Jones, Rabiyah A. Karim-Kincey, and Sandra Jones.

Executive Producers, Naturi Naughton-Lewis, Two Lewis, Korstiaan Vandiver, and Tyler Edgarten.

Recently Shai from UB, caught up wit the talented David Fortune, William Catlett and Jeremiah Daniels to talk about the new film “Color Book.‘

David shares how the film came together and what he would like people to take away from it?

William tells UB how he got involved in the film and his experience of working with Naturi Naughton-Lewis.

While the star of the film, Jeremiah shares what he enjoyed most about shooting the “Color Book” and more!