The short film

INTRODUCING

HER GRACE, THE DUCHESS OF GRANT PARK

Introducing Her Grace, the Duchess of Grant Park

The Duchess of Grant Park started as a short film about a black trans woman who claims the Atlanta neighborhood of Grant Park as her duchy.

Run time : 20 mins

Year completed: Fall of 2020

Principal Photography : Fall of 2019

Director: Brandon Mitchell

Writer: Ava Davis

Producers: Ava Davis, Brandon Mitchell

Director of Cinematography: Kat Brennan

Editor: Nicole Kemper

The Duchess of Grant Park is partly a love story about the neighborhood of Grant Park, and partly a story about finding one’s purpose. The Duchess declares Grant Park as her duchy. James, a journalist making a documentary, has chosen the Atlanta character of The Duchess although he knows nothing about her. Through the course of the story, James learns more about the Duchess, her history, and her connection to the neighborhood.

This is a story that started off as a light micro-short, with the Duchess as a one dimensional character. But, after sitting with the character for a while, I began to want to know her story and how she came to become who she was.

I think the story, and the respect that the Duchess doesn’t demand but instead accepts is in part an analogy for the transition stories for many transgender persons. The decision to use, or not to use, the Duchess’ title and acceptance of the status is similar to men and women who have transitioned and deserve to be addressed accordingly.

The original idea for the Duchess was a 3-minute comedic micro-short, small cast, two locations at the most, one day shoot; a great way to get my feet wet directing my first film. Little did I know that I would jump into the deep end when it became a 14-page, multi-day, multi-location, cast of all ages project. Go big or go home as the saying goes.

But that’s exactly what needed to happen in order to bring this story of the Duchess to life. I was fortunate to have a beautiful script written and starring my co-producer Ava Davis, as well as a very talented cast and crew from whom I learned so much. I wanted to direct this film because I knew it was more than just a fun film project, but it was giving a voice to something my dear friend held close to her heart, an expression of who she is. This was something special and I was humbled to be given this opportunity.

We decided to use the mocumentary style as part of the story, (inspired by Christopher Guest), and really bring the Duchess into the real world. Ava is the Duchess and the Duchess is Ava. Is art imitating life, or is Life imitating art?

What inspires me most about the Duchess is the idea of self-care, especially during these challenging times. My hope is that anyone who sees this film is inspired to live and find strength in their true self, bring love and support to those around them, and enjoy some laughter and a little magic along the way.