Filmmaker Profile: The Untitled Performers Project by Ian M. Adelson & RJ Brown
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!
About This Film
A short documentary featuring the lives of two New York City performers - RuPaul's Drag Race superstar Brita Filter and burlesque household name The Maine Attraction. As the two interview each other through areas of tragedy and triumph, the film follows each in their personal lives leading up to a live performance.
Q&A WITH THE CO-DIRECTORS IAN M. ADELSON & RJ BROWN
RJ Brown & Ian M. Adelson, directors of The Untitled Performers Project
How do you want people to feel after they see your film?
We want people to feel connected to others. Part of the film features the isolation everyone endured during the COVID pandemic, and the point of this film, as with a lot of performance art, is to feel that we're all here for one another, together in our artistic communities.
What was your favorite part of making your film? Memories from the process?
Being let into the lives of two unique performers - not just in their artistic circle, but in the nuances of their every day lives - was something special as documentarians. You really get to learn who people are in the details, and this was especially the case with our subjects.
Can you tell us about the central themes of your film? What message or emotion did you hope to convey?
Compassion, Resilience, Joy, Courage. This film is about how we lift ourselves up with the spirit of a community that binds us.
What inspired you to pursue a career in filmmaking?
There are certain films that elevate your emotional understanding of life and art. We want to do the same for other people.
If you weren’t a filmmaker, what would you be doing?
Pastry Chef
What’s your history with the Bushwick Film Festival?
We've screened with Bushwick a few times over the last several years and it is always, truly, a blast. Great films, great staff, great events and opportunities to meet other up and coming New York City filmmakers. Really couldn't ask for more out of a festival.
What’s the last film you watched?
Kneecap
What’s the last book you read?
The Stanley Kubrick Archives
Early bird or night owl?
Night Owl.
BIOGRAPHIES
Ian M. Adelson is an award-winning American director, and former associate producer of the Apple TV+ series, DICKINSON. Adelson’s films have screened worldwide in Oscar-qualifying festivals and streaming, while his music videos have garnered over 10 million views online. As a commercial director, Adelson has led campaigns for some of the world's biggest brands. Adelson was raised in the San Francisco Bay Area and attended the University of Michigan's film program for directing before coming up through the ranks of production in New York City.
RJ Brown is an actor, producer, and director living in Brooklyn, NY. As an actor, he can be found on HBO, CBS, NBC, CW, and most recently as Caleb in Netflix's 13 Reasons Why. His producing includes the off-Broadway hit The Woodsman. He shares his passion as a filmmaker at Floor 1 Productions and is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan’s esteemed Musical Theater department.
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!
