#mcghee monteith

Learn more about our 2017 filmmakers with our Take 5 series. Meet McGhee Monteith, director of He Could've Gone Pro.

#1: In 140 characters or less, describe your movie and why someone should see it.

When Debbie comes home for Christmas, she and her mother Gayle must confront the truth about their family's past. "He Could've Gone Pro" is a Southern story that aims to explore generational gaps and the realities and consequences of leaving things unsaid.

#2: Biggest lesson learned in getting the film made? Best part in getting the film made?

Be decisive. Hire positive and enthusiastic people who share your vision, and know how to communicate effectively. The best part of getting the film made was a midday moment on set when I stepped back, and simply observed all of the amazing people who were working so hard and diligently to help me tell a story that was previously nothing but a script on my computer.

#3: Tell us about you. What is your movie making background?

I've been a stage and film/television actor for most of my life (Walk the Line, Butterfly Rising, American Koko), but in recent years, I've begun writing and directing content for my production company, Star Landing Productions, and others. I was the first woman to win a Film Prize for "He Could've Gone Pro," and was recently awarded the Louisiana Film Prize's Founders Circle honor.

#4 What do you want the Oxford Film Festival audience to know about your film that isn't obvious from its title or description?

I feel that the American South rarely is depicted, not only with a critical eye, but also with an equal hand of compassion. When I was developing this project, it was very important for me to keep this family real and not fall into cliche character traps. They needed to be people we know, or perhaps, people we are.

#5: What does the future hold in store for your film and for you?

I would love to see "He Could've Gone Pro's" story continue into a feature film or a stage play. I am currently in post production for my latest short, "Jesus & Jimmy Ray," that was shot in Mississippi. As an actor, I am currently a series regular on ABCd's "American Koko."

Learn more at:

https://www.facebook.com/hecouldvegonepro/?fref=ts