At the Black Entrepreneur Tour: Spring Formal hosted by Doing Far More LLC, Roselyn Omaka of Bolanle Media sat down with Martel Matthews—CEO of Trustavio and COO/co-founder of Black Wall Street—to share a deeply personal story and transformative wisdom on planning for legacy.

Martel recounted how his journey began at just 21, when he lost his mother—and over the next decade, faced six more family deaths, with only two covered by insurance. “We had to pay for four funerals out of pocket… We didn’t have the capital,” he shared, emphasizing how the lack of preparation magnified grief and placed an unfair burden on his father and himself.

From this experience, Martel learned that pre-planning is not just prudent—it’s essential for protecting dignity and financial stability. “Death is inevitable. But leaving behind a legacy—and some finances—gives your loved ones room to breathe during their darkest days,” he explained.

He urged attendees to take concrete action: have conversations, secure insurance, and formalize estate plans. “Sit down with your family. Make sure you’re protected. Know how to access resources when life happens,” he emphasized.

By sharing his story and advice, Martel is fueling a community movement—alongside Roselyn and Mrs Donna Marshall‑Payne—to inspire Black families and entrepreneurs to transition from reactive survival to proactive legacy building.

🔗 Stay Connected & Take Action

• Follow Martel Matthews on social media: @MartelMakesChange
• Connect with Doing Far More LLC for legacy planning:
• 📞 832‑745‑1114
• ✉️ info@doingfarmore.com
• 📱 Instagram: @doingfarmorellc
• 🌐 www.doingfarmore.com

The film industry is in the midst of a major transformation. What once defined “professional” is now holding creatives back. With AI, immersive tech, and shifting viewer habits on the rise, filmmakers who don’t evolve risk becoming obsolete.

Here are 10 outdated filmmaking trends you need to leave behind—if you want to stay relevant in 2025.

1. Relying on Green Screens Instead of Virtual Production

Still dragging around green screens? Time to upgrade. The industry is embracing virtual production using massive LED walls and real-time rendering—tech that made shows like The Mandalorian possible. It’s faster, more immersive, and gives your actors something real to react to.

2. Ignoring the Power of AI in the Filmmaking Process

Some filmmakers still treat artificial intelligence like a gimmick. Big mistake. Tools like Runway, Sora, and others are already transforming everything from scriptwriting to post-production. A recent AI-generated film, Echo Hunter, even featured a fully SAG-AFTRA cast, proving AI is here—and it’s union-approved.

3. Releasing Films Exclusively in Theaters

The hybrid model is here to stay. Filmmakers who limit their work to theatrical releases are missing out on global streaming reach and on-demand revenue. In 2025, success means crafting a smart multi-platform distribution strategy from the start.

4. Using the Same Tired Storytelling Formulas

Predictable plots are boring audiences to death. What’s rising instead? Mini-dramas, often in vertical formats, built for mobile. Platforms like ReelShort and DramaBox are capturing millions of views with bite-sized, emotional thrill rides. Even Hollywood is paying attention.

5. Neglecting Immersive Audio Experiences

Audio is no longer background—it’s a lead character. With devices like Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3, spatial audio is becoming an audience expectation. Artists like Bono and Metallica are already leveraging this for immersive concert storytelling. Filmmakers, you’re next.

6. Refusing to Shoot for Mobile and Vertical Formats

Filmmakers who only shoot horizontal are ignoring where the audience lives: on their phones. Short films, webisodes, and behind-the-scenes content perform better in vertical formats—especially among Gen Z. Adapt or be scrolled past.

7. Greenwashing Without Genuine Sustainability

Sustainability isn’t a press release—it’s a responsibility. Studios are going beyond symbolic gestures, committing to sustainable film production with eco-friendly lighting, waste reduction, and energy tracking. It’s good for the planet—and the brand.

8. Casting Without Cultural Authenticity

Representation isn’t just a trend—it’s table stakes. The days of whitewashing or token casting are over. Audiences demand authentic stories told by people who live them. Inclusion is no longer a checkbox—it’s your calling card.

9. Ignoring the Creator Economy

Don’t sleep on TikTok, Substack, and YouTube filmmakers. Many are bypassing traditional gatekeepers and building direct revenue streams through fanbases. Filmmakers who ignore the creator economy will be left behind as new voices rise—faster and more connected than ever.

10. Using AI Unethically and Secretly

AI isn’t the enemy—unethical use of it is. Creators need to be transparent when AI is involved, credit human collaborators properly, and align with union standards. As Echo Hunter proves, ethical collaboration with AI is possible—and profitable.

🎥 Final Cut

If you’re still clinging to old-school habits, consider this your wake-up call. 2025 belongs to the filmmakers who innovate boldly, tell authentic stories, and use tech responsibly. The rules have changed—so change with them.

Ready to stay ahead of the curve?
Visit BolanleMedia.com for exclusive interviews, tools, and real talk from the frontlines of modern storytelling.

The filmmaking world is experiencing a seismic shift: short-form storytelling is now at the forefront of how audiences consume content. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts have redefined the rules, demanding filmmakers deliver powerful, memorable stories in under a minute. For filmmakers eager to stay relevant and expand their reach, mastering this new narrative form is essential—and it’s also a gateway to opportunities like the Houston Comedy Film Festival, where innovative short-form content is celebrated.

Why Short-Form Storytelling Dominates in 2025

Short-form video thrives because audiences are busier and more mobile than ever. These bite-sized stories are easy to remember, emotionally resonant, and perfectly tailored to the way people scroll through content on their phones. Every second counts, so there’s no room for filler—each moment must drive the story forward and connect with viewers instantly.

Key Strategies for Filmmakers

1. Focus on Relatable Micro-Stories
Micro-stories—single, impactful moments or emotions—are ideal for short-form platforms. They’re relatable, easy to consume, and perfect for the rapid pace of TikTok and Instagram. Think of a 30-second comedic mishap or a quick twist ending that leaves viewers laughing or surprised.

2. Visual and Auditory Impact
Dynamic visuals, bold colors, and creative camera angles are essential for grabbing attention in the first few seconds.Sound design and music can enhance emotional impact, even in the absence of dialogue, making your story universally accessible.

3. Strong Narrative Structure
Even in 60 seconds, a story needs a clear beginning, middle, and end. Focus on a central conflict or theme, and use editing techniques like jump cuts or montages to condense time and keep the narrative tight.

4. Experiment and Iterate
Short-form platforms reward experimentation. Test different genres, tones, and formats, then refine your approach based on audience engagement. Each post is a chance to learn what resonates.

5. Leverage Technology and Trends
AI tools for editing and scriptwriting, as well as AR/VR experiences, are making short-form storytelling more immersive and accessible than ever. Stay attuned to trending challenges and sounds to boost your content’s visibility.

Why Filmmakers Should Enter the Houston Comedy Film Festival

If you’re honing your short-form storytelling skills, the Houston Comedy Film Festival is the perfect stage to showcase your talent. This festival is renowned for celebrating innovative comedic shorts and giving filmmakers a chance to connect with industry professionals, audiences, and fellow creators. It’s a platform where the best micro-stories and comedic twists get the recognition they deserve—plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to see how your work stands out in a competitive, supportive environment.

Conclusion: Embrace the Short-Form Revolution

Short-form storytelling isn’t just a trend—it’s a new language for filmmakers. By focusing on concise, relatable stories and leveraging the latest visual and narrative techniques, you can captivate audiences and carve out your place in the digital landscape. And if you’re ready to take your work to the next level, submit your best comedic short to the Houston Comedy Film Festival—where the future of storytelling is unfolding, one laugh at a time.