Walter Thompson-Hernández Embarks on a Journey Through Watts in the Trailer for Poetic Sundance Debut, If I Go They Will Miss Me.
Walter Thompson-Hernández Embarks on a Journey Through Watts in Trailer for Poetic Sundance Premiere If I Go They Will Miss Me
Sundance can become quite crowded, and not every film that premieres in Park City garners extensive publicity. However, one film that finds itself in this middle ground yet still deserves recognition is Walter Thompson-Hernández’s If I Go They Will Miss Me, a drama set in Watts that blends everyday challenges with significant artistic ambition, drawing comparisons to Jonathan Demme, Charles Burnett, and RaMell Ross. With a nationwide release planned for September 18, the first trailer has been unveiled.
As Jordan Raup stated in our review, “Discovering poetic beauty in the ordinary, Walter Thompson-Hernández’s If I Go Will They Miss Me focuses on coming of age in the housing projects of southern Los Angeles. This lifestyle is often portrayed with a raw intensity that emphasizes life-or-death stakes, yet this promising emerging director takes a different approach. One that keeps dreams of escape in mind as airplanes frequently fly overhead from nearby LAX. Greek mythology studied in school provides a sense of purpose. A deep affection for its cast (many of whom are non-professionals in this instance) creates a portrait of a vibrant, loving community that overcomes adversity. Just as his characters seek profound personal inspiration, Thompson-Hernández draws heavily from the styles of various acclaimed directors, including Barry Jenkins, RaMell Ross, Charles Burnett, and Spike Lee, resulting in a film that transcends its familiar influences.”
Here’s the synopsis: “In the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles, twelve-year-old Lil Ant perceives the world and his father as all children should — filled with myth, wonder, and steadfast belief. IF I GO WILL THEY MISS ME tells a stunning father-son story about imagination, family, and the compassion we show to those we love.”
Watch the preview below:
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Walter Thompson-Hernández Embarks on a Journey Through Watts in the Trailer for Poetic Sundance Debut, If I Go They Will Miss Me.
Sundance can become quite busy, and not every film that has the honor of premiering in Park City will generate significant buzz. One film that navigates this gray area but still merits recognition is Walter Thompson-Hernández's If I Go They Will Miss Me, a drama set in Watts that blends everyday issues with profound themes.