CIFF47: PSQ March 22 – April 1, 2023 | Streams April 2 – April 9, 2023

Wheels

Year: 2018
Country: United States
Language: English
Run Time: 80 minutes

Wheels
Wheels
Wheels
Wheels
Wheels

WHEELS tells the story of Max, an ambitious teenager who dreams of being a big-time DJ. For now, he’s stuck spinning at parties for locals. Staying focused on his own goals isn’t easy when life’s circumstances get in the way. His grandma is sick, so he dropped out of school to work full-time at the grocery store to support his family. When Monty, a popular DJ in the scene, praises Max’s abilities, he starts saving cash for a pair of his own turntables. Monty’s encouragement gives him hope that it’s not just some pipe dream—he’s got a real chance at making it. But once again, family issues arise when Max’s brother returns home from prison after serving a three-year sentence for stealing cars. Max finds himself in a difficult position, unsure of who to trust. Is he obligated to his family, or is it time to put all of his energy and resources towards his passion? Backed by fresh beats, stylish black and white cinematography, and an impressive lead, WHEELS is a sincere and relatable tale of overcoming adversity. —E.F.

CIFF43 Screenings

Friday, March 29, 2019 at 5:30 PM

Monday, April 01, 2019 at 9:20 AM

Capitol Theatre

Saturday, March 30, 2019 at 8:45 PM

Sidebar
African Diaspora

Competition
American Independents Competition

Director

Director
Paul Starkman

Paul Starkman, a Brooklyn-based film and television director, is a graduate of the AFI Cinematography program. Starkman quickly worked his way up from camera operator on MTV's The Real World to DP of America's Next Top Model. Starkman’s work led to Project Runway and his first Emmy nomination, and he went on to direct Bravo’s Top Chef for seven seasons.

Filmography
WHEELS (2018)

Producer
Jamin O'Brien, Patrick D. Gibbons, Paul Starkman, Neal Usatin, Cheryl Wayne, Ariel Boles

Screenwriting
Paul Starkman

Cinematography
Ariel Boles

Editing
Neal Usatin

Principal Cast
Arnstar, Shyrley Rodriguez, Joshua Boone

Film Contact

Community Partner

Greater Cleveland Urban Film Festival

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