GIVING BACK
ABQ native screens latest film as part of Duke City benefit for animals
Brian Jett has always wanted to make films.
He enjoys telling stories and wants to give back. That’s why Jett is screening his film “Fallen Stars” in Albuquerque on Jan. 11.
“We’re doing theatrical screenings across the country,” he says. “But we’re also teaming up with local animal groups. A portion of the proceeds will go to them.”
“Fallen Stars” is a drama that chronicles the unexpected friendship that develops between a melancholy bartender, Cooper, who at 36 still isn’t sure what he wants to do with his life; and a socially awkward overachiever, Daisy, in her early 20s.
The movie was filmed in Los Angeles, and it’s Jett’s second time at writing and directing a production.
His first film, “Let Go,” was released in 2011 and had Ed Asner, David Denman, Gillian Jacobs and Kevin Hart as its co-stars.
“This was my first time doing a production of my own,” he says. “There was a learning curve. It set forth the path to more movies that I’ve written.”
He says it took about a year to raise the financing for “Fallen Stars.”
And then the film has been through the film festival circuit, where it was received well.
“With indie film work, you are doing everything yourself,” he says. “It’s a labor of love. You don’t learn anything about distribution or the business side in film school.”
After working a couple years on “Fallen Stars,” Jett is ready to start a new cycle for his next film.
“I’m hoping to film the next one in New Mexico,” he says. “Everything is in the beginning stages right now.”
Jett was born in the Duke City, where his parents were raised and graduated from the University of New Mexico.
When he was a child, his father’s job as a state ambassador took him to Washington, D.C., where he grew up mostly.
“The majority of my relatives all live in New Mexico,” he says. “I came very close to going to UNM. I get back to New Mexico twice a year, and it’s a great place to be.”
For the Albuquerque screening, Jett has teamed up with Babes & Bullies.
The organization advocates for and promotes awareness regarding the humane animal treatment of pit bulls and bully breeds through outreach, education, community relationships, rescue, and rehabilitation.
Contributions are used to publish educational information on the breeds, pay for veterinary needs of rescued bullies, and assist local no-kill rescue groups in their care of bullies prior to placement. One hundred percent of the organization’s net proceeds are dedicated to helping bully breeds.
“This is my way of giving back and spreading awareness,” he says. “The screenings in other cities have been very successful.”
Jett will also conduct a Q&A session after the screening.
SEND ME YOUR TIPS: If you know of a movie filming in the state, or are curious about one, email film@ ABQjournal.com. Follow me on Twitter @agomezART.