MOVIE REVIEW
All I’ve Got & Then Some
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 20m
Director(s): Tehben Dean, Rasheed Stephens
Writer(s): Tehben Dean, Rasheed Stephens
Cast: Rasheed Stephens, Avis Parsons, Naiya Armour, Boo Kapone, Glen "Big Baby" Davis, Charles Constant, Armie Hicks Jr.
Where To Watch: premiering at the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival, www.slamdance.com; for more information, www.allivegotandthensome.com

RAVING REVIEW: From the get-go, ALL I’VE GOT & THEN SOME is an original and powerful concept: a stand-up comedian's life in Los Angeles, living out of his car while chasing his big break. This blend of drama and humor offers a genuine peek into artists' obstacles to recognition. Each scene provides a peak into this world and artists' struggles while softening the edges to make it more digestible.

The heart of ALL I’VE GOT & THEN SOME lies in its protagonist, Rasheed (Rasheed Stephens,) a symbol of the classic Hollywood dreamer. Rasheed’s daily grind juxtaposes his high-flying ambitions against the gritty reality of making ends meet, including his stint as a ride-share driver. This dichotomy anchors the film, providing an accurate look into the trials of the entertainment world. However, I fear Stephens may have worn too many hats for this project, ultimately not allowing him to focus entirely on the individual parts (co-director, co-writer, producer, and actor.)

Rasheed’s unwavering determination drives the narrative forward. With moral support from his best friend, Rose (Avise Parsons,) he tackles and triumphs over various amusing and severe challenges that threaten his career aspirations. The film transcends, delving into themes of hope and resilience amid life's unpredictability.

The directors, Tehben Dean and Stephens, who also step in as writers and producers, lace the film with their firsthand experiences in the industry. Their original plans eventually shifted gears due to unforeseen hiccups, leading to the birth of ALL I’VE GOT & THEN SOME. This swift pivot, turning a series idea into a full-length feature film, showcases their flexibility and imaginative flair. The production's rapid seven-day turnaround is nothing less than impressive, serving as an inspiration for budding filmmakers.

ALL I’VE GOT & THEN SOME is a tribute to the relentless chase of dreams despite formidable challenges. Its premiere at Slamdance marks a significant milestone for Dean and Stephens, signifying the start of their quest to share stories rich in diversity and impact.

The directors' diverse backgrounds enrich the filmmaking process. Stephens, hailing from Atlanta, has a history of engaging with indie films. Dean's journey from Alaska through Portland to Los Angeles is marked by his expertise in cinematography and direction, which is evident in various documentaries and short films.

ALL I’VE GOT & THEN SOME is a fantastic representation of an artist’s fight against daunting odds. It resonates with anyone who has dared to dream big, reminding us that one can navigate even the most challenging obstacles with perseverance and ingenuity. The film is not just entertaining; it acts as a source of motivation, highlighting the decisive role of storytelling in capturing the human condition’s depth.

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