In a significant cinematic development, Larry Clark, renowned for his incisive portrayals of youth culture, has joined hands with filmmakers Edgar Morais and Luke Eberl as an executive producer for the music documentary *It Was Them*. Known for his provocative narratives in films like *Kids* and *Bully*, Clark brings a wealth of experience to this new project, which currently remains in production. This collaborative venture is set to investigate the intricate tapestry of immigrant identity and the pursuit of musical aspirations against the vibrant backdrop of Paris.
*It Was Them* promises to be an evocative portrait of four Indigenous-Latino musicians—Jonathan Velasquez, Eddie Velasquez, Frank Navarrette, and Carlos Ramirez—navigating their existence as immigrants in the unpredictable streets of South Central Los Angeles before making their way to Paris. The film stretches across ten transformative years, capturing not only their artistic journey but also their personal struggles and triumphs as they forge their paths in an unfamiliar foreign landscape.
The documentary not only chronicles their odyssey but also emphasizes the importance of an original soundtrack crafted and performed by the protagonists themselves, encapsulating their personal stories through music. This artistic choice underscores the film’s commitment to authenticity, allowing the audience to connect with the characters on a profound level.
The synergy between Morais and Eberl, the co-directors of this project, speaks volumes about the creative energy fueling *It Was Them*. The duo has previously showcased their talent in the award-winning short film *We Won’t Forget*, which captured the raw emotions of a woman’s tumultuous evening with friends. Their collaborative magic is evident in the accolades the short has amassed across numerous international film festivals, including a screening at the esteemed Palm Springs ShortFest.
The documentary’s production team is impressively enhanced with names such as Sol Tryon, known for his work on *Sean Baker’s Starlet*, and Rodrigo Areias, who has garnered awards for his contributions to the film *Listen*. Their track records indicate a sincere commitment to artistic integrity, suggesting that *It Was Them* will resonate on a narrative and emotional level.
Both Morais and Eberl have extensive experience in visual storytelling, with accolades that speak to their diverse range of skills. Morais, a multi-dimensional artist, walks the path of filmmaker, photographer, and actor, while Eberl’s experience as an actor and director sets a distinguished tone for their collaboration. Their backgrounds place them in a unique position to portray the realities of artists grappling with their identities as they seek acceptance and belonging.
Larry Clark’s involvement adds an intriguing layer to this project, as his works often explore the darker sides of adolescence, addiction, and rebellion. His knack for presenting unfiltered realities aligns seamlessly with the film’s intent to amplify the voices of young artists navigating their environment.
As *It Was Them* makes its way through production, it promises to be a documentary that not only highlights musical talents but also delves into complex themes of identity, culture, and the immigrant experience. The combination of Clark’s directing expertise and the creative vision of Morais and Eberl offers the promise of an authentic and deeply engaging narrative.
With an original soundtrack and a storyline entrenched in real-life struggles, this project has the potential to resonate widely with audiences. As the film progresses, it will be intriguing to see how the collaborative effort between these talented filmmakers translates on screen, bringing to life the story of four friends navigating the intricate maze of their dreams amid cultural transitions. The vibrant artistry of *It Was Them* could very well establish a new benchmark for documentaries dedicated to the intersection of personal aspiration and cultural identity.
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