Marlon Edwards, an English instructor at Langston University, has just finished production on an upcoming independent film. “A Dangerous Prey” is an action thriller about a woman who experiences a home invasion. The film follows an urban young couple moving to a new neighborhood, expecting a new child and a fresh start from their past, who are confronted with a horrible dilemma.
According to Edwards, “Creating a film shot on Langston and involving students and my colleagues to be a part of the film is something I’ve wanted to do since teaching here.”
From being an editor, actor and producer of the film, Marlon’s passion for film in his life has always been important. Edwards developed an interest in acting at a young age, even directing a movie in his neighborhood with his friends, but his family believed long-term it wouldn’t bring him anywhere career-wise.
“Going to college, getting a degree, and having a job was what my family prioritized,” Edwards said, “until I was able to earn my masters in a writing degree that’s what began my journey to get into what I always wanted to do.”
The majority of “A Dangerous Prey” was shot over the course of two and a half weeks on Langston University’s campus during spring break. Langston University students and professors were also featured in the film, including Dr. Mick Howard, Carylon Ross, Daniel Thompson, and Andre Love. Students in the film include Dazjuan Johnson, Margon McCardell, Zaria Bradshaw, Devontay Smith, and Tyliah Davis.
For some, this was their first time partaking in film production. Sophomore business major Devontay Smith said “Being in a movie was a good experience, I never knew the different types of film you can do with one movie. Actually seeing what happens behind the camera and learning lines was a cool experience.”
Introducing both students and teachers to the production of film culture and learning behind-the-scenes skills is what Edwards enjoys. Being as a teacher and an independent producer, Edwards can relate to many people having this connection that draws people to his content. On the weekend, Edwards teaches a family expectations class for new parents and one of his former students actually plays a role in the film.
Writing center director and assistant professor Mick Howard said “A Dangerous Prey is one of these films that take a look at issues such as gentrification and issues that reflect struggles of what people have.”
Samuel Gichohi
Staff Writer
Samuel Gichohi is a sophomore Broadcast Journalism major
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