In the ever-evolving world of ambition, trust, and power, The Foundation Short Film, directed by Darrell Reese Jr., is a gripping narrative of redemption and the quest for meaning in a modern age. The film follows John, a recent college graduate with big dreams, who, alongside his childhood friend Malachi, created a revolutionary cryptocurrency during their time in college. As they attempt to expand their vision into something groundbreaking, unexpected challenges arise, forcing John to navigate difficult decisions about his future. At a critical juncture, he faces an opportunity from powerful businessmen that could reshape his life, making him question the true cost of ambition and loyalty. The film is coming soon. We are proud to announce that The Foundation is now in the film festival circuit, having earned over 13 official selections and won five awards. Crew: Director/Writer: Darrell Reese Jr. Director of Photography (DP): Darrell Reese Jr. Associate Director/Production Designer: Kaitlin Moore Executive Producers: Darrell Reese Jr., Steve Almeida Camera Operator: Avian Hardin Boom Operator/2nd Assistant Camera (2nd AC): Aveian Hardin Still Photographer (Unit Stills)/2nd Assistant Camera (2nd AC): Dominique Fairley Behind-the-Scenes Videographers/2nd Assistant Camera (2nd AC): Ra’Yuna Young, Kaitlin Moore Colorist: Darrell Reese Jr. Sound Design/Score: Steve Almeida Cast: John Edward III: Darrell Reese Jr. The Wise Man: Dedrick Clark Malachi: X’avier Carpenter 🏆 Awards & Wins: Best Short Film – JXN Film Festival Best Director – JXN Film Festival Best Cinematography – JXN Film Festival Best Cinematography – East Village New York Film Festival Best Drama Short Film – New Jersey Film Awards 🎬 Official Selections – Best Short Film Marina del Rey Film Festival® SacFilmChallenge 'Pulling Focus' African American Film Festival Lift-Off Filmmaker Sessions Volume 8 American Stories Film Festival™ Lift-Off Filmmaker Sessions Volume 7 🎖 Semi-Finalist – Best Short Film IndieX Film Fest BBR Indie Films Film official press kit/website: https://www.goldprintmedia.com/thefoundationfilm

At Goldprint Media, we had the honor of working with Sam Sones of Farm Bureau Mississippi to bring his powerful story to life. From his dedication to business and community to the love he has for his family and faith, this project was about more than just visuals—it was about meaning. We’re grateful for the opportunity to highlight Sam’s journey and share a story that inspires. ✨ Produced by Goldprint Media Filmed and edited by Darrell Reese Jr. Learn more about the project: https://www.goldprintmedia.com/farm-bureau-sam-sones

We did it because this story had to be told. This is just one piece of the chessboard — one move in a much bigger universe we’re building. To be recognized alongside hundreds of other films, to be selected by festivals, and to already win Best Drama Short — it means everything. Not because it validates us… but because it confirms that the story resonates. We’re walking the same festival paths that legends like Spike Lee and Ryan Coogler once walked. And we’re just getting started. This is only month one. More selections. More wins. More stories to tell. 🎙️ Clip from the latest I Hate This Industry podcast. 🎬 The Foundation Short Film

In this episode, Darrell Reese Jr. and Steven Almeida dive deep into the brilliance of Sinners — breaking down that unforgettable scene where blues, vampires, ancestral rhythms, and eras of sound collide. From East Coast to West Coast to Asian influence, Coogler and Ludwig crafted a moment in film history that’s nothing short of genius. 🔥🎬 🎧Full Episode dropping soon. Stream it wherever you get your podcasts: https://www.goldprintmedia.com/ihtipodcast #IHateThisIndustry #SinnersMovie #RyanCoogler #PodcastClip #FilmDiscussion #MovieBreakdown #DarrellReeseJr #StevenAlmeida #BlackCinema #FilmmakingPodcast #SinnersMovie #PodcastReels

In this episode of the I Hate This Industry podcast, hosts Steven Almeida and Darrell Reese Jr. discuss their journey in filmmaking, focusing on their short film project. They share personal updates, the challenges faced during the editing process, and the importance of sound design. The conversation delves into the thematic elements of their film, the significance of film festivals, and reflections on success and hard work in the creative industry. The hosts emphasize the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the lessons learned throughout their journey. Takeaways • The film process is a journey that continues beyond completion. • Finishing a film marks the beginning of new challenges. • Working in a creative environment enhances productivity and creativity. • Sound design plays a crucial role in storytelling. • Every scene in a film can feel like a short film in itself. • Film festivals provide valuable feedback and recognition. • Success in filmmaking requires hard work and dedication. • Collaboration is key in the filmmaking process. • Thematic elements in film can resonate with diverse audiences. • Every project is an opportunity for growth and learning. Follow the pod: https://www.goldprintent.com/ihtipodcast Tune into the “I Hate This Industry Podcast” with hosts Darrell Reese JR. & Steven Almeida for game-changing insights! #IHateThisIndustryPodcast (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/ihatethisindustrypodcast) Follow Darrell Reese JR. Instagram.com/Darrellreesejr (http://Instagram.com/Darrellreesejr) Twitter.com/Darrellressejr (http://Twitter.com/Darrellressejr) Follow Steven Almeida instagram.com/___therealworld (http://instagram.com/___therealworld) Twitter.com/___therealworld (http://Twitter.com/___therealworld)

When it comes to filmmaking, nothing is by accident. From the inspirations of Ryan Coogler, Spike Lee, and Christopher Nolan — to the emotional blueprint of Nina Simone — The Foundation was built with intention in every frame. 🎬 Every symbol. 🔮 Every bit of foreshadowing. 🎼 Every sound. This film is about redemption, betrayal, and the journey of self-discovery in chaos. And I knew three years ago exactly how I wanted it to feel, look, and sound. Tap in to the latest episode of the I Hate This Industry podcast to hear how it all came together. #IHTIPodcast #TheFoundationFilm #FilmmakingWithPurpose #IndieFilm #SymbolismInCinema #RedemptionArc

We’re launching a new mini-series on the I Hate This Industry podcast called Laying the Foundation. 🎬 This series will chronicle the entire journey of bringing The Foundation short film to life — from the creative process to the chaos behind the scenes. 🔥 What to expect:🔹 The editing, sound design, and scoring process 🎼🔹 BTS footage and scene breakdowns 🎥🔹 The making of the film and what led to this moment 🛠️🔹 Stills, color grading, and visual storytelling 🎨🔹 Our experiences heading to film festivals 🌍 We’re pulling back the curtain on EVERYTHING. 🎬 Tap in to see how it all came together. 🎧#IHTIPodcast #LayingTheFoundation #TheFoundationFilm #BehindTheScenes #FilmmakingJourney #IndieFilm

In this episode of I Hate This Industry, Darrell Reese Jr. and Steven Almeida dive deep into the filmmaking process, reflecting on the journey from concept to execution. Darrell shares how he had to pivot from his original film, Scorpio, and embrace patience while developing The Foundation. They discuss the challenges of editing under deadlines, refining color grading, and ensuring the story resonates with audiences. From last-minute reshoots to sleepless nights spent fine-tuning details, this episode is a raw look at the dedication it takes to bring a vision to life. Follow the pod: https://www.goldprintent.com/ihtipodcast Tune into the “I Hate This Industry Podcast” with hosts Darrell Reese JR. & Steven Almeida for game-changing insights! #IHateThisIndustryPodcast (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/ihatethisindustrypodcast) Follow Darrell Reese JR. Instagram.com/Darrellreesejr (http://Instagram.com/Darrellreesejr) Twitter.com/Darrellressejr (http://Twitter.com/Darrellressejr) Follow Steven Almeida instagram.com/___therealworld (http://instagram.com/___therealworld) Twitter.com/___therealworld (http://Twitter.com/___therealworld)

In The Goldprint Journal, Teddy from Spring Street Cigars shares his personal journey of learning the art of cigars. ✨ Starting in 2002, Teddy’s journey began like most—no knowledge, just smoking what others handed him. Over time, he learned the art of cutting cigars—whether punching, straight cutting, or V-cutting. 🍷 As you refine your taste, you also explore different cigar blends, from light to dark, and how they pair perfectly with everything—whether it's soda, bourbon, wine, or even scotch. The best way to learn? Keep experimenting and find what works best for you.

Darrell Reese Jr. sat down with Teddy, manager of Spring Street Cigars in Hattiesburg, MS, for a crash course in cigar etiquette and cutting techniques for The Goldprint Journal. 🥂 ✨ Teddy’s Tips: 1️⃣ Punch Cut: Preserve the cigar’s mouthfeel by avoiding the smoking end. 2️⃣ Straight Cut: Snip the fine cap for a clean smoke. 3️⃣ V Cut: Teddy’s personal favorite for a fuller flavor experience. ⚠️ Pro Tip: Always go around the edges for an even glow—never burn your cigar straight down the middle! Stay tuned for the full conversation and learn how to elevate your cigar experience.

In this episode of The Goldprint Journal, Darrell Reese Jr. interviews Teddy from Spring Street Cigars about how they’ve cultivated a community-focused culture in Hattiesburg, MS. 🔥 Highlights: Monthly events with leading cigar brands like Rocky Patel. Support from Hattiesburg’s local leaders, including Mayor Toby Barker. The Spring Street Way—teaching customers how to cut, light, and smoke cigars while fostering a welcoming environment. “Spring Street isn’t just about cigars—it’s about community, culture, and creating a space for connection.” 📍 Watch to learn more about how Spring Street Cigars brings people together and continues to grow in Mississippi. 🔗 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more behind-the-scenes stories and insights: https://www.goldprintmedia.com/spring-street-cigars #TheGoldprintJournal #SpringStreetCigars #CigarCommunity

In this episode of The Goldprint Journal, Darrell Reese Jr. sits down with Teddy from Spring Street Cigars to unpack the incredible growth of this Mississippi-based cigar brand. 🔥 Highlights: Founded in 2014 in Tupelo, MS, by John Higgins, with partners Ahmed Dower and Todd Knowlton. Expanded from Tupelo to Oxford, South Haven, Corinth, Starkville, Kosciusko, Meridian, Jackson, TN, and now Hattiesburg, MS. The company’s success is built on a strong foundation of leadership and community values. “If the head isn’t right, the body isn’t right. John Higgins sets the precedent for every shop we’ve opened.” 📍 Tune in to hear more about their journey and future plans for expansion. 🔗 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more industry insights and stories!