Asher is a very intriguing film about a religious yet fiery subculture who call themselves the "Black Isrealites" aka "The original Black Jews". Although their presence can be felt in inner cities across America, this particular story focuses on the environment I was born and raised in, Harlem New York.
As a young New Yorker I would see them everywhere, from 42nd street standing on soap boxes yelling at onlookers and passersby, to marching in military form down 125th street, dressed to the nines in what at the time could only be described as the craziest and loudest costumes Iʼve ever seen!
The reason Iʼm really excited about seeing this film get made is because Francisco did a great job of bringing us into this subculture by delving deep into the minds and the lives of a very often misunderstood yet extremely interesting religion. The characters are rich and multi-leveled, as well as flawed and possibly extremely dangerous which lends itself to keeping the audience on the edge of their seat!
I look forward to working on this project and to see Francisco's vision come to life.
- Mekhi
