Date: January 19. Venue: IndieScreen Cinema
Williamsburg opened its doors to a private screening of Jamesy Boy. The star-studded cast included Oscar-nominated James Woods, Mary-Louise Parker, Ving Rhames, Taboo (Black Eyed Peas) and newcomer Spencer LoFranco. The movie chronicles the life of James Burns, a troubled teen wrapped in a web of crime, facing incarceration, whom in a turn of events climatically earns his redemption through the aid of an inmate.
At the end of the film, Burns opened the stage to a Q&A Segment. James adamantly expressed his desire to give a voice to those who lacked one, stating the difference between himself and others like him lied in the opportunity to share his story.
“We all need somebody… Never take struggles for granted… Don’t let anyone drag you down,” he states as a matter-of-factly before reciting a poem.
In an exclusive interview with Jesenia’s Goodie Bag, Burns opens up about his mentor, the inspiration behind the poetry verse tattoo on his arm. When asked if there was one infinite message he wanted Jamesy Boy moviegoers to walk away with, he mentioned to love oneself and never give up your dreams.
James (now 25) is a Poet turned Director with another project underway, Revolving Doors. This documentary film follows the lives of three convicted felons who seek to re-build and re-enter society. The struggles they face are real.
During the screening after-party, guests enjoyed Sauvignon Blanc (among other beverages) and light bites.
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JUST watched Jamesy Boy for the first time tonight and I have to say that I liked it. Artistic license notwithstanding, I can also say that I related to the movie, albeit I’m a older white man whose circumstances were different. Besides that though, I think we can all appreciate anyone who has to struggle against adversity to make something of their lives.
Good luck, James Burns.
My life reflects this movie in many aspects. This is not what I want to share though. I watched this movie last weekend and was blown away. Today what I do for a living is work with men just like James Burns in many aspects of their lives. I work in a chemical dependency program as a license drug and alcohol counselor. I brought this movie into work and showed it to the men and women in this program today. I created a work sheet of questions for them to answer as they went along in this film. I have to share that viewing and then discussing this film was one of the best involved groups I have had to date at this program. I know the struggle to clean up your life and I am proud to now work in a field helping other’s clean up their life. James Burns (Jamesy Boy) thank you from us to you for sharing your story. You have encouraged many in Minneapolis, Mn today.
This was a great movie
Thank you for this share and blog Jesenia. We just watched the movie and it was real. Looking into James’ poetry. Thanks again.
This movie really made a strong connection with me. I am reminded of the hidden anger I demonstrated when I was growing up as well as the gentle reminder to reach back into my community and make an impact in a positive way. So glad I watched this POWERFUL film!
Hi there I loved the movie and that was really brave of you to on pen up to every body and tell them about your life.
I just had one question thoe???
What does your chest tattoos say?
As I sit here watching the movie Jamesy Boy it starts to make me think about life my life on how I love to write . James Burns you are an inspiration and keep doing what your doing ! Thank you for opening my eyes when it comes to me writing again .
I just got done watching this movie and i have to say this movie has to be on my top 5 best movies! I was hooked from the very beginning i was happy sad i cried i was very mad when i thought James was gonna do his drug dealing again! I got sad to find out his ex-girlfriend was engaged i really thought she was single, but its not a fairy tail and its real life but i wish to luck James Burns I’m glad he is in a better life style now and he actually doing very well. 🙂