Filmmaker Profile: ‘98 Honda by Christian Banda
Welcome to the Bushwick Film Festival Q&A series, where we introduce you to the incredible filmmakers behind this year's lineup. Each of these talented storytellers has crafted a unique vision, reflecting diverse perspectives and powerful narratives that resonate deeply with audiences today. In this series, you'll get an inside look at what inspired their work, the challenges they faced, and the creative processes that brought their films to life. Through candid interviews, they share their thoughts on the impact of their films, the themes they explore, and their hopes for how audiences will connect with their stories. Whether you're here for drama, comedy, documentary, or experimental films, these filmmakers are sure to inspire you with their dedication and passion for the craft. We hope you enjoy getting to know the voices behind this year's festival as much as we have enjoyed bringing their films to our screens. Let’s dive into their stories!
Set on a sunny day in 2004, ‘98 Honda follows Michael, a charming weed dealer whose good intentions often leave him in disastrous situations. Tasked with taking his girlfriend’s cousin Sean to see Spider-Man 2, the reluctant stewardship blossoms into friendship.
Christian Banda is a Western Massachusetts native who spent the last 13 years in New York honing his filmmaking skills and fortifying his passion for all things TV & Film related. His credits include MTV, VH1, Comedy Central, Netflix, WNYC, iHeartRadio, and Billboard. Christian was most notably a Segment Producer for The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, which won the Emmy for 2023's Best Variety Talk Show. '98 Honda is his directorial debut.
Q&A WITH DIRECTOR CHRISTIAN BANDA
What was a big challenge you faced while making this film?
This is my directorial debut. Even though I've been in the industry for more than a decade, I've never directed anything before '98 Honda. Suddenly, I'm surrounded by this wonderful cast and crew looking for me to lead them. It's terrifying when you feel the weight of what you've been working on all in one moment. We ain't in the gym anymore, it's game time. And you know what? I found out I love having the ball.
What inspired you to pursue a career in filmmaking?
I grew up in an African household. My mom is Tanzanian. We weren't allowed to turn on the television during the week growing up. So naturally, I snuck downstairs when everyone was asleep and watched all of the tv shows and films I could get my hands on. Childhood first generation rebellion mixed with stubborn curiosity led me down the path of being a broke artist, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
What is something that all filmmakers should keep in mind in order to become better cinematic storytellers?
You're always studying. Every show/film you watch. Every conversation you have. Every time the light hits the trees a certain way or your homie switches up intonation on a commonly used word, you're studying. Just realizing that made understand that everyone has an artistic reservoir to pull from. Knowing you have the reservoir, curating it, putting only the best things in there...I feel like that's when this whole filmmaking shit starts for real.
If you weren’t a filmmaker, what would you be doing?
I just started teaching high school. Not only are the kids hilarious, but they're so insightful. The joy of becoming a teacher has caught me completely by surprise but, if I wasn't hellbent on doing this, I'd probably be at the head of a high school classroom somewhere.
How do you feel about your film being screened in front of a festival audience?
This film didn't exist a year ago, and now I get to show it at Williamsburg Cinemas. My home theater. It's an honor. You dream about this shit when you're a kid. I saw Avengers Endgame, opening weekend, at Williamsburg Cinemas. Now I get to show something I made there? Unreal.
What’s the last film you watched?
Brooklyn starring Saoirse Ronan
What’s the last book you read?
The Message by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Thank you for joining us for this special Q&A with the filmmakers of the Bushwick Film Festival. We hope this conversation has given you insight into the artistry, dedication, and heart that went into bringing their films to life. Each of these creators represents the spirit of independent filmmaking—fearlessly telling stories that reflect the complexities of our world and the personal experiences that shape us. As you continue exploring this year’s lineup, we encourage you to dive deeper into these works and discover the powerful messages, emotions, and perspectives they offer. Whether you're a long-time supporter of indie films or a newcomer to the festival, your engagement and curiosity make all the difference in uplifting these voices. Stay tuned for more filmmaker spotlights, and we look forward to seeing you at this year’s screenings. Let’s continue celebrating the magic of storytelling together!
