Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso
Director RaMell Ross (‘Nickel Boys’) is Redefining Cinema
Feb 23, 2025
RaMell Ross, an award-winning director known for his film ‘Nickel Boys’, shares his unique approach to storytelling shaped by his upbringing in Virginia and experiences as a Georgetown basketball player. He discusses the role of naivete in filmmaking, the complexities of race in photography, and aims to portray the American South in new and authentic ways. Ross emphasizes the need for deeper explorations of Black identity in cinema, asserting that ‘Nickel Boys’ is just the beginning of a transformative journey in Black cinematic history.
01:03:33
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Quick takeaways
- RaMell Ross emphasizes the importance of innovative storytelling techniques in film to foster deeper audience engagement and understanding.
- His personal journey from basketball aspirations to filmmaking highlights the significant role of life experiences in shaping artistic expression.
Deep dives
The Journey from Sports to Film
Ramel Ross transitioned from aspiring NBA player to filmmaker following significant injuries and personal loss. After earning a scholarship to Georgetown University for basketball, the challenges of injuries sidelined his athletic dreams. The passing of his mother further propelled him into photography as a coping mechanism, where he found comfort and expression in the camera. This shift led him to explore storytelling through film, ultimately culminating in his debut feature, Nickel Boys.
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