ABOUT
STORY - A spiraling drug dealer attempts to go clean in the hopes of visiting his girlfriend in rehab. Meanwhile, he must secure five kilos of cocaine for a dangerous client.
INSPIRATION - “Ice Cold Ricky” is an unforgiving look at the life of drug abusers and those searching to change. The characters and story are inspired by real people and situations I’ve experienced throughout my life and hopefully this film will help shed some light on those who are still struggling.
DIRECTOR’S STATMENT
"Ice Cold Ricky" is a deeply personal project for me, serving as both a proof of concept and a prequel to the full-length feature, "DLR". This film dives headfirst into the tumultuous life of Ricky, a spiraling drug dealer, whose journey to break free from the clutches of addiction is at the heart of our narrative.
The story unfolds as Ricky, our protagonist, strives to turn his life around in the hopes of visiting his girlfriend in rehab. However, he finds himself ensnared in the perilous world of drug dealing, tasked with securing five kilos of cocaine for a dangerous client. The delicate balance between Ricky's personal redemption and the demands of his illicit profession creates a gripping tension that propels the storyline.
"Ice Cold Ricky" draws inspiration from the harsh realities of drug abuse and the relentless pursuit of change. The characters and narrative are intricately woven from real people and situations that have left a lasting impact on my own life. It is my sincere hope that this film will shine a light on the struggles of those facing addiction, providing a raw and unfiltered perspective on their journey.
This project is a testament to my commitment to bringing to the forefront the often-overlooked challenges of individuals grappling with substance abuse. By sharing these authentic experiences on screen, my aim is to foster understanding, empathy, and meaningful conversations about the complexities of addiction. "Ice Cold Ricky" is not just a film; it is a reflection of shared human experiences, inviting audiences to confront the harsh realities that many continue to endure.
THE FILMMAKER
Filmmaker Juwan hails from Los Angeles, finding his creative roots at Boston University studying fine arts. Later, he shifted his focus to filmmaking at the School of Visual Arts in NYC, discovering a penchant for screenwriting that has guided his career.
Following a stint assisting at Robert De Niro's Tribeca Film Center and other film organizations, Juwan returned to Los Angeles to kickstart his film career. At 23, he wrote and directed his first feature film, "Cake" (2001), showcasing his knack for low-budget guerrilla filmmaking that still secured distribution.
In his second feature, "Baby" (2007), Juwan ventured into the realm of Asian gang life in Los Angeles, aiming to make an impact similar to films like "Menace 2 Society" and "Boyz in the Hood." "Baby" found success on the film festival circuit, earning awards and a distribution deal with Lionsgate.
Juwan's work reflects his experiences growing up in L.A., portraying gritty crime narratives seasoned with witty humor. His films resonate with a distinctive voice that captures the essence of his hometown.
Filmmaker Awards:
• "Baby" - Jury Prize Narrative Feature Film, LA Asian American Film Festival 2007
• "Baby" - Best Director, Disorient Film Festival 2007
CONTACT
juwan@pdq.la