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Local author to see his book transformed to film

Date: 10/17/2012

By G. Michael Dobbs

news@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — A former resident of the city is hoping to "bring Hollywood here" with a motion picture adaptation of another's resident's book and play.

Keshawn Dodds is known as the director of Multicultural Affairs & Community Relations, at American International College (AIC), but is also recognized as a writer and playwright. He introduced Springfield native Stephen "Stix" Josey at a press conference at the college last week as the producer intending to bring Dodds' recent book, "Who's On My Side" to the screen.

"I'm absolutely on cloud nine, " Dodds said.

Josey told Reminder Publications the film is in pre-production for the next 30 to 45 days during which locations will be determined as well as some exterior shots completed. He believes the film will have a 17 to 21 day shooting schedule and he intends to use local acting talent.

One of those actors may be Jalil Oates, an AIC student majoring in communications from Elizabeth, N.J., who appeared in the play based on the book. He said he was excited about appearing in the film.

"Who's on My Side" is the story of an 18-year-old boy, who has been mentally and physically abused by his alcoholic father.

"With all of the conflicts that have risen in his life, the journey will come to an eye-opening conclusion during the summer of his 18th birthday," Dodds said.

Josey said he has been following Dodds since the author's high school football career. Dodds said Springfield resident and marketer Arenzo Washington, the owner of A Wash Innovations, formally introduced the two men.

Josey is a writer, producer, actor and director of MSJ Productions, Film and Music and received the "Best First Time Director Award" in 2012 at the Philadelphia Independent Film Festival for his film, "Angels Around Me."

He said that the adaptation of Dodds' book would not be the only production he undertakes here. He is planning to shoot two seasons of "Dream Chasers," a reality show that would be broadcast on the Internet through the UStream website. The show would follow his efforts along with those of comedian Joe Kelly and Washington.

"We're still chasing our dreams, "Josey said. "You'll see the ups and downs we go through."

Josey will present his film "Angels Around Me" during a free show at AIC at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 30, which will be hosted by AIC's student organization, P.R.I.D.E. (Persons Ready In Defense of Ebony). He and Dodds will be host a question and answer session about the film with its lead actor, Scott Neufville, following the screening.