Loyalty Over Everything (2025)

This film is based on the true events of the life of Samantha "SteadyRockin" Rogers, a Queer hip-hop music promoter who risks it all for the love of Hip-Hop, the love of Family, and the love of Love.

Director - Drusilla Jean Talley-Williams

Director - Drusilla Jean Talley-Williams

Director Biography - Drusilla Jean Talley-Williams

Drusilla's interest in film began in small town USA, in Easley, SC, after seeing "Gone with the Wind" on a middle school field trip. She finally found something more exciting than reading to broaden her imagination and take her to times, places, and events that she could only dream of. She began writing screenplays in college but spent her twenties and thirties working as a Human Resource Consultant while taking screenwriting classes and attending pitch competitions here and there. Then in 2020, there was the COVID lockdown, and she experienced an awakening. She decided that playing it safe is stupid and life is short. So she set out to do what she was always destined to do. She produced her first content, "The Unlearning of US: Episode 1, The Blue-gieman and US" of a six-part documentary series. The episode is available to view on Amazon Prime and Tubi.

Director Statement

Living my dream!

Please tell us your motivation for making your film:

I think that this film is one of a kind, real-life story that deserves attention. It fits perfectly with this festival's genre.

What are the themes and central messages you wanted to convey with your submission?:

The message for this film is that there is a struggle to life no matter who you are. That can be compounded for those whose sexuality, appearance, or gender isn't the norm. Difficulties can sometimes become compounded and everyday situations can lead to doubt and uncertainty resulting in bad decisions. And also conveys that there was a lot of lost during COVID and there were some amazing souls that we need to grieve.

Please list ANY possible CONTENT / TRIGGER Warnings:

Flashing siren lights; foul language, alcohol consumption

Credits:

Drusilla Jean Talley-Williams

Director

The Unlearning of US

Drusilla Jean Talley-Williams

Writer

Jonell Brown

Writer

Drusilla Jean Talley-Williams

Producer

The Unlearning of US

Michael Reed

Producer

Barbara Elyse

Key Cast

"Samantha Rogers"

Moneca Reid

Key Cast

"Linda Rogers"

DeShele Taylor

Key Cast

"Deborah Clinkscales"

D'Andra Williams

Key Cast

"Young Sam"

Sterling Reshaud

Key Cast

"Tariq "

Specs:

Project Type:

Feature

Runtime:

1 hour 16 minutes 59 seconds

Completion Date:

June 30, 2024

Production Budget:

250,000 USD

Country of Origin:

United States

Country of Filming:

United States

Language:

English

Shooting Format:

Digital

Aspect Ratio:

16:9

Film Color:

Color

First-time Filmmaker:

No

Student Project:

No