A Proof of Concept Project

Logline: In a world where communication transcends spoken language, "Beyond the Limits" episodes explore the mysterious realm of disability through the authentic stories and experiences of those who navigate their world from a unique perspective. Their unique abilities, challenges, and creativity can transport them into dimensions that are beyond the usual realities.

Listen to a brief synopsis of our sci fi project here. Press Play button 

Internationally Acclaimed Filmmaker, Actor, and Writer,

Emmitt Thrower, is Taking the World "Beyond the Limits" of its wildest Imagination

By Steffon Olsen, Scorpius Magazine

Jan 2024

Emmitt Thrower is one of the most powerful and strikingly original forces in the independent film and theater world today. The revolutionary director, actor (Pigs in a Bowl) and writer began his prolific and distinguished career as a stage actor/playwright. He garnered international acclaim, early in his career, with his undeniable acting genius and stage presence. Some of his most remarkable performances included the iconic Malcolm X (Billie and Malcolm: A Demonstration),  Muhammad Ali (Barry White: Guided by Destiny),  to the revolutionary Patrice Lumumba (A Season in the Congo), from the legendary Paul Robeson (Red Channels), Jesse Jackson (Fulani)  and Jackie Robinson (Stealing Home) , Satchel Paige (Satchel), to the irreverent comedian Richard Pryor and Jean Paul Marat in Marat/Sade.

As Thrower established himself in the film industry, he quickly became known as unpredictable and enigmatic among audiences and peers.  He challenged Cinematic styles and the established approaches to filming, never concerned with following the rules. He never allowed any man-made boundaries, nor his limitations to hold him back. His approach to both life itself and filmmaking is inspiring and brilliantly creative. His charismatic and original signature interwoven into each of his films is undeniable and compelling. 

Thrower has won countless awards ( IMDB films and awards ) around the globe for his provocative and emotive documentaries and short films as he continues to rock the Independent film festival circuit with each new masterpiece. He is well-known throughout the world for championing disabled artists and bringing to light the disgraceful discrimination of disabled artists within the film and music industry. His documentary film, “Disabled Artists Showcase: Creating Our Spaces,” among many such projects, has already given a resounding voice to disabled artists around the world and brought to the attention of the film and music industry, the importance of addressing the issue of discrimination against disabled artists. 

Currently, Thrower is in collaboration with Demeter Lorant a multi-award-winning Filmmaker from Hungary on  Beyond The Limits, a new short film series project that explores disability in the Twilight Zone. The project features uniquely original sci-fi, horror, and fantasy stories from the perspective of mentally and physically disabled people. His latest autobiographical, full-feature documentary, “New Borning: A Bronx Tale,” has been blowing up throughout the film world. Recently, Thrower garnered two awards at Scorpiusfest for Best Documentary Short (Disabled 

Artists Showcase) and Best Music Video (So Hip-Hop).

Scorpius recently had the honor and pleasure of sitting down with the iconic filmmaker/artist. Upon entering any room, his presence is immediately recognizable and powerful, yet he exudes a relaxed savvy, and humble demeanor.

As I began my conversation with the iconic filmmaker, I sensed his genuine nature and candid personality.

Scorpius: 

What can you tell us of your career as a stage actor/playwright and what are some of the most successful theatrical runs you've done? Memorable experiences in theater?

Thrower: My inaugural role as Duke Senior in Shakespeare's "As You Like It" performed in the picturesque setting of Fort Tryon Park in NYC, was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Stepping into the world of theater at nearly 35 years of age was a daunting prospect, but the thrill of bringing a character to life on stage was intoxicating. From there, my passion for the craft only grew, leading me to delve into portraying a diverse array of historical figures at the Castillo Theater. It was at the Castillo Theater that I found my niche, immersing myself in roles that ranged from the iconic Malcolm X to the revolutionary Patrice Lumumba, from the legendary Paul Robeson and Jackie Robinson to the irreverent comedian Richard Pryor to just name a few. Each character presented its own set of challenges and rewards, demanding both emotional depth and historical accuracy in portrayal. Performing the Patrice Lumumba character in Martinique, with the esteemed playwright/poet, then mayor, Aimé Césaire in attendance, stands out as a particularly poignant moment, highlighting the power of storytelling to bridge cultures and generations.

Scorpius: What is the most powerful and influential force that inspires you as a filmmaker/storyteller?

Thrower: Perhaps the most profound influence on my artistic journey has been fatherhood. Crafting impromptu bedtime stories laced with the sounds of classical music for my three sons sparked my love for storytelling. This experience ignited a desire to communicate my ideas and experiences to a broader audience. It was this innate passion for narrative that ultimately led me to venture into the realm of filmmaking. 

Scorpius: Your award-winning documentary, Where is Hope: The Art of Murder was an enormous success. Where did it come from and what can you tell us about it?

Thrower: "Where is Hope: The Art of Murder," my award-winning feature documentary exploring police brutality against people with disabilities was born from a chance encounter with Leroy Moore Jr., founder of Krip Hop Nation, a worldwide organization of disabled poets and musicians. Leroy is a disabled poet, journalist, and activist. Collaborating with Leroy on this project was both a labor of love and a deeply personal endeavor. Despite facing numerous obstacles in securing funding, we remained steadfast in our commitment to shedding light on this important issue. The documentary's eventual release and distribution through Kanopy Educational Streaming Services to colleges, universities, and libraries worldwide was a testament to the power of perseverance and the potential for film to effect social change.

Scorpius: You've recently won awards throughout the international film festival circuit, including Scorpiusfest, for both, "Disabled Artists Showcase: Creating Our Spaces" and "So Hip-Hop," featuring two Emmy Award Winning Disabled Artists, Keith Jones, and Toni Hickman. What can you tell us about those? 

Thrower: In recent years, my work as a filmmaker has continued to garner recognition on the international stage. Films like "Disabled Artists Showcase: Creating Our Spaces" and "So Hip-Hop," featuring remarkable performers with disabilities like Keith Jones and Toni Hickman, have received acclaim at film festivals worldwide, helping to amplify disabled and marginalized voices in the entertainment industry. I have collaborated with Keith Jones over the past 12 years or so on numerous projects. The latest is his song and music video “Magnificent” where I portrayed a character named Marcus, an OG and his mentor who helps to guide him on a mission to have a positive impact on a community.

Scorpius: You've recently released a riveting and emotionally charged new documentary, New Borning: A Bronx Tale. What can you tell us about it?

Thrower: "New Borning: A Bronx Tale," is a feature-length autobiographical documentary chronicling my life in the Bronx following a life-altering stroke. My life follows in unison the redevelopment and renewal of the Bronx after it had experienced decades of its historically debilitating trauma. What began as an audiobook project evolved into a visual journey intertwining music, images, poetry, and narration,  offering a candid glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of rebuilding a life in the aftermath of adversity.

Scorpius: "Beyond The Limits," the revolutionary and enthralling new film series you are creating is now in pre-production.  What can you reveal to us about it at this time?

Thrower: I am excited to embark on this new creative endeavor with "Beyond The Limits," a groundbreaking film series exploring disability narratives in a manner reminiscent of the sci-fi series The Twilight Zone. Twilight is one of my all-time favorite shows and Rod Serling has been an inspiration for me. We are in pre-production currently and preparing to launch a "Proof of Concept"  Kickstarter campaign to help raise funds for the pilot series episode as well as looking for other supporters wanting to help make this project happen. We expect to begin crowdfunding in early July 2024. We hope the community of people with disabilities and others will be responsive and actively get behind our efforts. I am inspired by the opportunity to challenge perceptions and ignite conversations about the lived experiences of disabled individuals in our original and authentic series.

Scorpius: If you were to die tomorrow and you could leave one last message to the world, what would it be?

Thrower: I have no plans on dying and will be around forever. But I fully expect to transform into my next carnation and the beginning of a new journey. .But If tomorrow were my last day in this form, my message to the world would be clear and simple: Wear clean underwear, Act with Love, and Never leave home without it.

Check out some of Emmitt Thrower’s unforgettable films today by visiting the following links:

Where is Hope: The Art of Murder

www.kanopy.com/en/product/where-hope-art-murder-police-brutality-aga 

It's Only A Number

www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXR8a1-Rjko 

A Blind Man Stood On the Road and Cried

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tflRIr1I56g

SO HIP HOP

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jimiAyCgIu4

Disabled Artist Showcase on the DISORDER CHANNEL

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3aQ3er_VBU

SILENT SELLERS: Street Vendors

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgivrCcnha4

Music Video and short film “Magnificent”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNnObWEiPkI