Behind the Scenes of “The Trucker”
“The Trucker” thrives on unexpected twists, largely due to Raven Johnson’s unpredictable experiences during the film’s production, which began on the first day of shooting.
Johnson recalls, “We arrived in South Dakota from New York, and my brother was supposed to meet us there.” With a crew of fellow NYU film students, she was anxious, wondering if he would arrive and if his truck would be present.
When her brother Boye Wantoe did show up, he brought a vibrant personality that matched the large rig he drives, highlighting potential for broader career options beyond trucking. The film captures his long-haul journey across the Midwest, showcasing his striking Liberian accent and the bold tracksuits he wears. Johnson’s film examines the narrative of a working-class man facing casual racism, while he cleverly leverages others’ low expectations of him for his advantage.
Despite following a seemingly steady driver, “The Trucker” takes viewers through various plot twists that Johnson adeptly navigates, telling the story of a complex individual against challenging backdrops. While Johnson had a clear vision for the short, she embraced the spontaneity of filming, utilizing nonprofessional actors and allowing the story to unfold naturally, which contributed to the film’s dynamic essence. Ahead of its premiere at the BlackStar Film Festival, Johnson discussed how her connection with her subjects infused the film with energy and highlighted overlooked communities.
Origins of the Film
Johnson explains, “This was my thesis film for NYU, and I was keen to create a small movie with a big feel. My brother, a professional truck driver, agreed to let us use his truck. I wanted to explore themes of black and white spaces, reflecting on my upbringing in Minnesota through the eyes of a Liberian immigrant living an uncertain life.” She and her six-member, predominantly female crew traveled from Sioux Falls back to her hometown in Minnesota.
The Filming Journey
The unique locations encountered during filming were largely thanks to producer Raines Plambeck, who scouted locations throughout South Dakota. Despite a chaotic production process with last-minute casting decisions due to unexpected issues like car breakdowns and weather-related delays, they collaborated effectively with the local community to create an authentic setting for the story.
Working with Nonprofessional Actors
Johnson expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with nonprofessional actors, especially her brother. She valued the unexpected energy they brought to set. “My brother loved the spotlight,” she said, noting his natural charisma as he interacted with the local community and fellow cast members. Their wardrobe choices, particularly his stylish tracksuits, contributed significantly to the film’s visual storytelling.
Filming Style and Editing
The cinematographic choices in “The Trucker” were deeply collaborative, with Johnson writing a visually-driven script while trusting cinematographer Lorena Durán to translate her vision onto the screen. Striking a balance between showcasing the protagonist’s life and keeping the narrative engaging was challenging but essential to the story’s success, allowing viewers to engage with the character’s depth without overwhelming details.
Conclusion
After a lengthy journey of creation, Johnson is excited for audiences to experience the film, especially after facing pandemic-led delays. “Having an audience is what makes the journey worthwhile,” she shared. “The Trucker” is set to screen at the BlackStar Film Festival on August 5th at 2 PM EST as part of their Shorts: Denouements program, available virtually.
