From NYCHA to Hollywood: Bronx Filmmaker Produces 6 Films in 6 Years
Bronx-born independent filmmaker Wilfred La Salle is making waves in the world of feature films, with the ambitious goal of becoming the world’s greatest independent filmmaker. Despite facing financial challenges, La Salle has managed to create six full-length movies in the span of six years, showcasing his talent and determination in the industry.
La Salle, who hails from the West Farms neighborhood, is the founder of La Salle Productions Inc. and has taken on the role of writer, director, producer, and actor in his films. What sets him apart is his ability to produce these movies on a shoestring budget, often utilizing local actors and locations from his native borough of the Bronx.
“We’re doing these films essentially broke,” La Salle shared in an interview with the Bronx Times. “You just figure it out along the way.” Despite never having attended film school, La Salle’s passion for storytelling has propelled him to invest in equipment and teach himself the necessary skills to bring his visions to life.
Growing up in NYCHA housing with a single mother, La Salle found solace in movies as an outlet for his creativity. While he now resides in Mount Vernon, he continues to draw inspiration from the Bronx and its rich pool of talent. Over the years, he has cast more than 70 actors, primarily people of color, providing them with valuable experience and exposure in the industry.
In lieu of traditional pay, La Salle offers actors their reels, allowing them to showcase their work to casting agents and industry professionals. This arrangement not only benefits the actors but also helps La Salle bring his stories to life with a diverse and talented cast.
One of La Salle’s recent projects, “The Security Guard,” delves into the topical issue of gun control through the story of a Brooklyn man fighting for custody of his daughter while working as a safety officer at her school. The film explores various perspectives on gun violence and emphasizes the impact of such incidents on ordinary individuals like the protagonist, Omari Russell.
With his upcoming film, “The Veteran,” La Salle plans to shed light on the struggles of a man dishonorably discharged from the military and battling addiction. By focusing on stories that resonate with audiences on a personal level, La Salle aims to create meaningful and impactful films that spark important conversations.
Despite facing challenges and financial constraints, La Salle remains determined to achieve his goals and reach a wider audience with his work. His unconventional approach to filmmaking, often shooting guerilla-style under risky conditions, has garnered attention and accolades for his projects.
Looking ahead, La Salle’s ultimate goal is to have his films featured on major streaming platforms like Hulu or Netflix and to showcase his work to industry giants at Lionsgate. By pushing boundaries and defying expectations, La Salle is on a mission to prove that greatness can come from unexpected places, such as the Bronx.
In a world where independent filmmakers often struggle to gain recognition, Wilfred La Salle’s journey serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to one’s craft. As he continues to defy odds and break barriers in the industry, La Salle is a shining example of what is possible when creativity meets determination.
As Wilfred La Salle’s star continues to rise in Hollywood, his journey from NYCHA to the big screen is a testament to the resilience and talent that thrives in the Bronx. With each film he produces, La Salle is not only making a name for himself but also paving the way for aspiring filmmakers to follow in his footsteps and make their mark on the industry.
For more updates on Wilfred La Salle’s upcoming projects and latest releases, be sure to follow La Salle Productions Inc. on social media and stay tuned for what this visionary filmmaker has in store for audiences worldwide.
