Cast
Emidio Lopes
"ELIJAH"
Milcania Diaz-Rojas
"J"
Actor Statements
EMIDIO
Working on Elijah was a transformative journey — a process deeply rooted in vulnerability, truth, and the unyielding pursuit of authentic storytelling. This film captures the raw interplay between personal ambition and the inevitable challenges of life, where every new moment is an invitation to reveal the layers of our emotional reality.
Collaborating with Dark Wolf Pictures and my co-star Milcania Diaz-Rojas was instrumental in bringing this story to life. Dark Wolf Pictures’ unwavering commitment and meticulous attention to detail were evident in every aspect of the production. Their dedication not only elevated the technical quality of the film but also fostered an environment where creative risks were embraced. Milcania’s openness and collaborative spirit helped us build a deep, genuine connection between our characters, allowing us to authentically explore and embody the delicate balance of desire, struggle, and raw honesty.
At the Canadian Film Centre (CFC), the exceptional acting teachings were a cornerstone in shaping our performances. Alongside the director.
This project also marked a significant milestone in my creative journey. It was my first time co-writing with Jevon, and we began as an actor/director duo before evolving into a filmmaking duo. This evolution was an amazing experience that broadened my perspective and deepened my connection to the craft.
I am profoundly grateful to Dark Wolf Pictures, the Canadian Film Centre, and everyone involved for making this project a reality, and for giving me the opportunity to share a piece of my soul with the world.
MILCANIA
I had the pleasure of inviting Emidio and Jevon to my CFC showcase in 2024, so it truly felt like a full circle moment to have been able to work with them on "Elijah" for Emidio's CFC showcase this time around. From the moment I got the script, I knew that this was going to be special, because I could recognize the realness and rawness of the scene. It was also a character and story I felt deeply connected to.
The rehearsal solidified what I already knew; the project would turn out to be a beautiful, very private moment, and very honest reveal of a vulnerable heartbreak. Working with Emidio was beautiful. He has such a love and respect for the craft of acting and was completely open and a joy to work with. That openness really gave me all the confidence to be completely open and vulnerable about what I knew about my character, "J".
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What I'll always take with me is how safe I felt on set. When you're going for "the real", the residual of what you as the character are going through comes to the surface, and if you dig deep enough, it will surely bring up the same of yourself. I truly believe that that's what we are called to do as artists. So when I have the chance to work with people who not only get that, but connect just as deeply with the work and hold space for me as an artist because they love and respect the "art" of what we do so deeply, it is such an incredible gift.
That's what working with Emidio and Jevon and the entire team was for me. A true gift. Deep understanding, love and respect. It was a masterful, well-oiled machine that you could tell had years of history behind it and I am grateful that I was able to play a part in telling this story and working with this incredible team.