BLACK METAL

A biracial teen is determined to make it as a heavy metal artist in defiance of his father, a failed jazz musician.

Written and Directed by Michael Hyon Johnson
Starring: Thaddeus Newman, Darian Michael Garey, Hannah Kwon, Darius Johnson, Josh C Loudermilk, and Billy Hayes

Crew:
Executive Producers: Mohannad Malas, Khaled Sabawi, Sami Sabawi
Producer: Zade Akkad
Director of Photography: Brody S. Anderson
Editor: Kyle Kogan
Production Designer: Carrie J. Liu
Set Designer: Eugenie Juan
Set Dresser: Jennifer Harrison
Warddrobe Designer: Hunter Freedman
Makeup Artist: Kalissa Moran

Made with support by The M Film Lab and Open Screenplay


Black Metal is a coming-of-age story of a biracial teenager determined to make it as a heavy metal artist in defiance of his father, a failed jazz musician. Based in Aurora, Colorado; Black Metal was loosely based on the director's experience as a black and Korean teenager growing up in a predominately white suburb. While music served as a vehicle for connection to friends, being a black male in love with metal music became another obstacle of “otherness” felt in the black and Asian community. The short film serves as a reminder to continue pursuing joy, regardless of what stereotypes or expectations exist. Black Metal was produced by Zade Akaad with Executive Producers; Mohannad Malas, Khaled Sabawi, and Sami Sabawi.