Solomon Simmon is a 22-year-old filmmaker, actor and writer. Simmon is a fourth-year film and television student. He has lived in Atlanta since he was five years old and he loves it.
I know you’ve had many roles in the film world. What has been your favorite and why?
If you are speaking about acting roles then my first and only one I’ve done is “Atlanta,” which was a great experience. If you are speaking about the different hats I’ve taken on, I would say acting is my favorite, but that might have changed. I’ve been writing for so long now, I’d have to say that’s been the most fun. It’s different, but it’s pushing me to be better, do more and think outside the box. Overall, I’ve really enjoyed the things I’ve learned at SCAD over the last few years.
Can you give us details about your capstone? How was the process for you?
Yeah! So, the film is about a character who has to overcome his dilemma of doubt and overthinking to ask out the girl he’s loved since middle school. The process was rigorous. I had to go through countless drafts. There were things missing and plot points that hadn’t been hit yet. I had to up the stakes. It was a lot. I think it’s finally coming together to be what I had envisioned. Also, I’ve learned that having the right team helps in the process as well. It takes a lot of stress off my plate, so I can just focus on the creative aspects.
What are your plans for after graduation? More school, a break, etc?
I have no clue. I’m currently working on a couple of projects outside of school, so I’m hoping those take root soon. I’ve thought about school, but I don’t really know.
What/who are your inspirations?
Inspirations are definitely Spike Lee, Samuel Jackson, Quentin Tarantino, Will Smith, J. Cole, Drake and Kendrick Lamar.
Proudest moment in your school and/or career? Tell me about it.
There are two. The first was my role in “Atlanta.” “Atlanta” was a moment for me for many reasons. It was freshman year. I was adjusting to college life. On top of that, I had been professionally acting and auditioning for four years with no luck. So, I was extremely happy about landing a role in “Atlanta.” I remember the moment I found out pretty well. I was at Spring House with Greg, Chris, Sean and one other person. I can’t remember his name. I told them I had an audition for the show (“Atlanta”) and they went crazy. I honestly didn’t think I was gonna get it. A week later I got the role. It was definitely one of the happiest moments of my life.
The second moment is my Capstone Film, “A Leap of Faith.” It’s taking a lot out of me, in a good way, of course. It’s pushing me to be the greatest I can be. I’m in charge of the production. It’s my baby so to speak, so a lot of people are looking at me to be the leader. A lot of people have loved the idea as well. It brings me joy and pride that my first real work is being taken seriously and respected.
Do you have a style or a trademark in your films?
Honesty, I don’t think I’ve done enough to say that I do. When and if I do figure it out, I’ll let you know.
What is your creative process?
There are two ways that I get inspired. Firstly, I listen to good music. I try to keep the genres broad. The other way is I try to watch all kinds of films, old and new.
My creative process on how I do work is to get inspired, start writing a brief synopsis of the idea and then break it down, moment to moment, and write from there.
Any movie/TV recommendations for us?
I’ve been watching “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Hollywood” and “Schitt’s Creek.” Those are good. The only new movie I recently watched was “Justice League,” the Zack Snyder cut.
