Jaebadiah Gardner's "Sarah" to Premiere at Scope Screenings: A Tribute to Legacy and Community
At the SIFF Egyptian Theater on Capitol Hill, a story of legacy, family, and community is about to unfold on the silver screen. Real estate developer Jaebadiah Gardner, founder and CEO of Gardner Global, known for his work revitalizing Seattle’s Black communities, is stepping into a new role as a filmmaker with his debut short film, "Sarah."
The film, a heartfelt tribute to Gardner's grandmother, Sarah Queen Gardner, explores the rich tapestry of Black history in Spokane and the enduring spirit of a remarkable woman. Sarah Queen Gardner was a trailblazer, becoming one of the first Black women to own a brick-and-mortar business in Spokane, Washington. Her story, as told through her grandson's lens, is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of family.
"I wanted to make sure that my grandmother's legacy was alive," Gardner shares. "This film is an artistic expression, a way to share a little bit of that story and connect with the community."
"Sarah" is a collaborative effort showcasing the talents of local artists and filmmakers. Directed by Atuanya Priester and Wynter Rhys of A Real Grip Films, with cinematography by Francisco “Bronx Dead Eyez” Lopez, the film captures the essence of Gardner's story through a visual medium. Gardner emphasizes the authenticity of the film, stating, "There are no actors in this movie. Everybody in this six-minute short film is real, real Seattle, real Central District."
The film's premiere at Scope Screenings on October 29th marks a significant milestone for Gardner. "It's amazing to be in Seattle and have all that expertise here," he remarks. "Everybody just knows what they're good at and executed."
For Gardner, the filmmaking process has been a journey of self-discovery and creative expression. "I realized I could tell a story, but once it's out there, it's beyond me," he reflects. "It becomes a work of art for everyone involved."
As the film debuts, Gardner hopes it will resonate with audiences and spark conversations about legacy, community, and the importance of preserving Black history. "I just want people to feel something," he says. "If they walk away from this film and they don't do anything, then damn, we got some stuff to work on."
"Sarah" is more than just a film; it's a bridge between generations, a celebration of Black heritage, and a testament to the power of storytelling. As Gardner himself puts it, "It's like having a VHS tape in the 80s that we can all watch again and again."
Join Jebadiah Gardner and the "Sarah" team at Scope Screenings on October 29th at 6:30 PM at the SIFF Egyptian Thater for a moving and inspiring cinematic experience. It's an opportunity to witness a powerful story of legacy, community, and the enduring spirit of the Central District.
Get your Tickets: https://www.lexscopefilms.com/scopescreenings
