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The 10 Best Saw Palmetto Shampoos in 2024 on November 29, 2023 at 5:00 am Us Weekly

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Saw palmetto is the next big thing in hair care. Just over the past few years, it has emerged as a leading ingredient in a variety of hair care products, particularly in shampoos. For those not aware of the magical ingredient, saw palmetto is a small palm that contains fruit which, when extracted for its nutrients, has been shown to inhibit the production of DHT, a hormone that can contribute to hair loss. So, without further ado, these are the 10 best saw palmetto shampoos in 2023 to help you combat hair loss.
1. Blu Atlas Shampoo
Blu Atlas is one of the best brands for men’s personal care. Don’t let that deter you ladies. Anyone can use Blu Atlas’ high-quality, clean, and vegan range of products. Based in New York, Blu Atlas takes pride in crafting science-backed products that are safe for your body, hair, and skin.
Blu Atlas Shampoo is made with the best hair growth ingredients. For example, saw palmetto is rich in anti-inflammatory properties that are known to counter DHT—a hormone that is understood to contribute to hair loss. By targeting this hormone, saw palmetto is able to add volume, hydration, and strength to your scalp and hair.
Jojoba oil naturally contains vitamins A, D, and E—plus antioxidants and fatty acids. These nutrients mimic the skin’s natural sebum, adding nourishment and hydration that penetrates deep below the scalp’s surface. Aloe barbadensis leaf sends intense moisture into the hair, distributing vitamins A, C, and E.
Together, these ingredients add nourishment to your hair, cleaning away grime and buildup. If you don’t remember anything else from this list, know that Blu Atlas Shampoo is the best saw palmetto shampoo in 2023.
2. Botanical Green Care Saw Palmetto & Cayenne Thickening Shampoo
Saw palmetto is one of the best ingredients to combat hair loss, so it’s no wonder why it’s in a lot of hair growth products. Botanical Green Care Saw Palmetto & Cayenne Thickening Shampoo is the answer to your haircare prayers. This shampoo will bring life back into your scalp, stimulating the growth of new hair follicles. Trust us—in no time, you’re going to have a voluminous head of hair.
This shampoo utilizes botanical plant-based ingredients that are safe and healthy for your body, hair, and scalp. Formulated with saw palmetto, biotin, niacin, caffeine, guarana extract, arginine, keratin, apple, argan, peppermint, rosemary, cedarwood essential oils, vitamin B7, biotin, and grape stem cells blend together to offer you intensive nourishment, cleansing, and protection to allow your hair to grow.
Each of these ingredients offers different benefits, but together, they restore your hair and add fortification to prevent breakage and frizz. If your hair is thin, extra frizzy and prone to breaking, it is less likely to grow, which is why this is one of the best saw palmetto shampoos in 2023.
It’s free from parabens, sulfates, and other harmful chemicals. It’s also safe for color-treated hair, so you don’t have to stress about yet another hair-related concern.
3. Hims Shampoo Thick Fix
Hey, men! You can use any shampoo for your hair, but Hims Shampoo Thick Fix is formulated to meet the specific and unique concerns of men. This shampoo, scented with eucalyptus grove, provides an enriching boost of hydration and moisture for your dehydrated scalp.
Saw palmetto works quickly to stimulate your scalp and add volume, giving your hair a fuller-looking appearance. By adding volume and hydration, this shampoo also adds protection and restoration with every cleanse—blocking UV damage and other irritants.
This shampoo is best suited for thin, patchy hair. If you are experiencing hair loss and want a product that will actually work, Hims Shampoo Thick Fix is one of the best saw palmetto shampoos in 2023. You don’t want to miss out on this. 100% vegan and cruelty-free because beauty should be clean and safe for you, animals, and the environment.
4. Pura D’Or Anti-Hair Thinning Biotin Shampoo
If standard shampoos aren’t cutting it, you need to break out the big guys. Pura D’or Anti Hair-Thinning Biotin Shampoo is made with 17 proprietary herbal ingredients that will blow away all your expectations.
Tea tree oil, red Korean seaweed, nettle leaf extract, He Shou Wu, Amla oil, vitamin E oil, black cumin seed oil, saw palmetto, argan oil, and many other clean ingredients blend together to restore your hair and add hair-growth properties.
By adding thickness and fullness, your hair is able to remain stronger, which prevents breakage and splitting. With each wash, you can physically feel your hair becoming stronger. No parabens. No sulfates. Just clean, organic hair care that you will love.
5. Hers Shampoo Triple Threat
Don’t think we forgot about you ladies. Hers Shampoo Triple Threat is rich with hair growth-inducing ingredients that add strength, volume, and thickness to your hair. Each time you wash your hair, your nose will be greeted by the aromas of napa rose—turning your shower into a lush getaway.
For the ladies, biotin, saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil wash away excess sebum that can cause a disruption to your hair’s health. When using this shampoo, gently massage the product into your hair and allow it to sit on your scalp for a few minutes. For the best results, condition your hair with your favorite moisturizing conditioner.
Over time, your hair will restore itself, preventing future hair loss. When your hair is thick and strong, it’s easier for your roots to grow. This shampoo is free from parabens, sulfates, and silicones. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free.
6. Regrowz Thickening Shampoo
Regrowz Thickening Shampoo is one of the best saw palmetto shampoos in 2023 if you also want a product that is going to wash away the grime and impurities trapped in your scalp. It works by restoring your hair’s balance—taming excess dryness and oil.
Made with saw palmetto, pumpkin seed, biotin, almond, Kumari, Nimba, Wacha, Aristaka, Tulsi, Holy Basil, and rosemary oil—this sulfate-free shampoo naturally blocks DHT, a hormone that is known to contribute to hair loss. By blocking the hormone, it allows your hair to heal and restore itself, growing long and thick. Because it’s free from sulfates, silicones, GMOs, and artificial colors—it’s safe and suitable for color-treated hair.
7. Glamour n Glo Thickening Shampoo
There is no worse feeling than realizing your hair is thin, dull, and lifeless. Luckily, with Glamour n Glo Thickening Shampoo, your hair will grow long and thick with every wash. Saw palmetto adds nutrients to the hair that stimulates the scalp, promoting new hair growth.
Caffeine and biotin add shine and hydration, taming frizz and breakage. These ingredients are plant-based and safe for any hair type—including color-treated hair. The more you use this shampoo, the healthier your hair will be.
After you cleanse your hair, it’s important to lock in moisture with a conditioner or a leave-in conditioner to add nourishment and hydration throughout the day.
8. Botanical Hair Growth Lab Cayenne Saw Palmetto Thickening Shampoo
You already know that saw palmetto is great for your hair. When paired with cayenne, it’s even more powerful and effective. Botanical Hair Growth Lab Cayenne Saw Palmetto Thickening Shampoo detoxifies your scalp, removes build-up, and stimulates your scalp to encourage hair growth.
By inhibiting DHT, saw palmetto is able to increase follicle regeneration. Cayenne stimulates circulation and blood flow, promoting the roots to grow fuller. These natural, clean ingredients restore lost proteins and add healthy hydration and keep your hair from flaking. You will notice visible results after consistently using this shampoo. Made with clean essential oils, your hair and body get toxin-free ingredients with each wash.
9. Hair Thickness Maximizer Saw Palmetto Serum
If saw palmetto shampoos aren’t cutting it, you need to put the saw palmetto into your shampoo. Hair Thickness Maximizer Saw Palmetto Serum is packed with potent saw palmetto that can be dropped directly into your typical shampoo.
This blend of saw palmetto oil, pumpkin seed oil, moringa oil, baobab oil, blackberry seed oil, flaxseed oil, rosemary essential oil, peppermint essential oil, cedarwood essential oil, and oregano essential oil add shine, thickness, and strength to your hair.
These ingredients promote circulation throughout your scalp, which increases blood flow to the roots. The best thing about using this serum is you can decide how much you want to use. If your hair needs extra thickness and volume, you can add a few extra drops to your shampoo.
Sourced from natural plants under strict regulations, this serum is high-quality and safe for most skin and hair types. No irritation, just clean beauty.
10. First Botany Biotin Hair Loss Shampoo
First Botany Biotin Hair Loss Shampoo has over 14 key ingredients that bring life and radiance back to your hair. Korean Red Ginseng, hibiscus, niacin, turmeric compounds, saw palmetto, argan oil, biotin, nettles extract, vitamin B complex, and so many other herbal compounds work together to heal your hair.
These are high-quality ingredients, and they absorb into your hair easily. That means you’re not washing away the effectiveness of the ingredients each time you cleanse your hair. As this shampoo thickens your roots and adds volume, the saw palmetto is able to block DHT—a hair loss hormone. Cruelty-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free—as all shampoo should be.
Hair Care 101
Your hair takes a beating daily—from the sun to the products you use. It’s important to take care of your hair and give it the treatments and nourishment it needs to thrive and look radiant. Here are some of the best ways to take care of your hair.
Washing your hair regularly is essential to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup. However, over-washing can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage. It is recommended to wash your hair every two to three days, depending on your hair type.
Using a gentle shampoo is crucial to prevent stripping your hair of its natural oils. Look for shampoos that are free of sulfates and other harsh chemicals. Conditioning your hair after shampooing is essential to restore moisture and prevent dryness. Choose a conditioner that is suited to your hair type and apply it from mid-length to the ends of your hair.
Heat styling tools, such as flat irons and curling irons, can damage your hair and cause breakage. It is recommended to limit the use of heat styling tools and to use a heat protectant spray before using them. Brushing your hair gently is crucial to prevent breakage. Use a wide-tooth comb or a brush with soft bristles to detangle your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up.
Trimming your hair regularly is essential to prevent split ends and breakage. It is recommended to get a trim every six to eight weeks. The sun’s UV rays can damage your hair, causing dryness, breakage, and fading. It is recommended to wear a hat or use a UV protectant spray when you are exposed to the sun for an extended period.
Eating a healthy diet is essential for healthy hair. Foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein, such as leafy greens, nuts, eggs, and fish, can promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. Drinking plenty of water is crucial for healthy hair. Dehydration can cause dryness and breakage. It is recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Getting enough sleep is essential for healthy hair. Lack of sleep can cause stress, which can lead to hair loss and breakage. It is recommended to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep every night.
What Causes Hair Loss?
Genetics is the most common cause of hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness, is a hereditary condition that affects both men and women. In this condition, hair follicles shrink over time, leading to thinning hair and eventually hair loss.
Hormonal changes can also cause hair loss, especially in women. Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and thyroid imbalances can all lead to hair loss. Hormonal changes can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to—you guessed it—hair loss. Various medical conditions such as alopecia areata, lupus, and thyroid disease as well as medical treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and some medications, can also cause hair loss.
Stress can cause hair loss by disrupting the hair growth cycle. Stress can cause hair follicles to enter the resting phase, leading to hair loss. Telogen effluvium is a condition in which stress causes hair follicles to enter the resting phase prematurely, leading to excessive hair loss.
Nutritional deficiencies can cause hair loss. Iron deficiency, for example, can lead to hair loss by disrupting the hair growth cycle. Deficiencies in biotin, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 can also cause hair loss.
Hairstyling practices, such as tight braids, weaves, and extensions, can cause hair loss. These practices can pull on the hair follicles, leading to traction alopecia. Heat styling tools, such as flat irons and curling irons, can also cause hair loss by damaging the hair shaft. As we age, our hair naturally becomes thinner and less dense. Hair growth slows down, and hair follicles shrink, leading to hair loss.
How Saw Palmetto Works
Saw palmetto is an herbal supplement that is often used to treat hair loss. Saw palmetto comes from the fruit of the saw palmetto plant, which is native to the southeastern United States. Here are some ways in which saw palmetto helps fight hair loss.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a hormone that is known to cause hair loss. Saw palmetto inhibits the production of DHT by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into DHT. By reducing the production of DHT, saw palmetto can help prevent hair loss.
Inflammation can contribute to hair loss by damaging hair follicles. Saw palmetto has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and protect hair follicles from damage.
Saw palmetto can also help promote hair growth by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles. This increased blood flow delivers more nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, which can promote hair growth.
The fruit of saw palmetto has antioxidant properties, which can help protect the hair follicles from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to hair loss. Saw palmetto is a safe and natural alternative to traditional hair loss treatments, such as finasteride and minoxidil. Saw palmetto is generally well-tolerated and has few side effects.
It is important to note that saw palmetto is not a cure for hair loss, and it may not work for everyone. Saw palmetto should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional and in conjunction with other hair loss treatments, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and hair care practices.
Shampoo 101
Shampoo is a liquid or gel hair care product that is designed to clean hair and scalp. Shampoos are formulated with a combination of cleansing agents, such as sulfates, that work together to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup from the hair and scalp.
Shampoo works by using cleansing agents to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup from the hair and scalp. When shampoo is applied to wet hair, the cleansing agents in the shampoo mix with water to create a lather. The lather helps to lift away dirt, oil, and product buildup from the hair and scalp, leaving hair clean and refreshed.
When choosing a shampoo, it is important to consider your hair type and any specific hair concerns you may have, such as dryness, damage, or color-treated hair. It is also important to avoid using too much shampoo, as this can strip the hair of its natural oils and lead to dryness and damage. A quarter-sized amount of shampoo is usually sufficient for most hair types.
Best Shampoo Ingredients
There are many ingredients found in shampoos that can benefit your hair. From moisturizing agents to protein boosters, these ingredients can help to keep your hair healthy, strong, and vibrant. Here are some of the best shampoo ingredients to use.
Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer that can help to hydrate dry, damaged hair. It also contains vitamins and minerals that can help to nourish the hair and scalp, making it an excellent ingredient for those with dry or damaged hair. Argan oil is a rich source of antioxidants and fatty acids that can help to strengthen hair and prevent damage. It can also help to moisturize the hair and reduce frizz, making it an excellent ingredient for those with dry or frizzy hair.
Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal and antibacterial agent that can help to soothe an itchy or irritated scalp. It can also help to reduce dandruff and promote healthy hair growth, making it an excellent ingredient for those with dandruff or scalp issues.
Keratin is a protein that is naturally found in hair and can help to strengthen hair and prevent breakage. Keratin treatments can help to repair damaged hair and improve its overall health and appearance. Biotin is a B vitamin that can help to promote healthy hair growth. It can also help to strengthen hair and prevent breakage, making it an excellent ingredient for those with thin or brittle hair.
Panthenol is a form of vitamin B5 that can help to moisturize and strengthen hair. It can also help to add volume and shine to the hair, making it an excellent ingredient for those with fine or thinning hair. Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that can help to hydrate and nourish the hair. It can also help to reduce frizz and prevent breakage, making it a great option for those with dry or damaged hair.
Jojoba oil is a natural moisturizer that can help to hydrate the hair and scalp. It can also help to prevent dandruff and promote healthy hair growth, making it an excellent ingredient for those with scalp issues. Peppermint oil is a natural stimulant that can help to promote healthy hair growth. It can also help to reduce dandruff and soothe an itchy or irritated scalp, making it an excellent ingredient for those with scalp issues.
Wheat protein is a natural source of protein that can help to strengthen hair and prevent breakage. It can also help to add volume and shine to the hair, making it an fantastic ingredient for those with fine or thinning hair.
When choosing a shampoo, it is important to look for ingredients that are suited to your hair type and concerns. For example, if you have dry hair, you may want to look for shampoos that contain moisturizing agents like aloe vera or coconut oil. If you have thinning hair, you may want to look for shampoos that contain biotin or wheat protein.
Conditioner 101
Conditioner is a hair care product that is used to help soften and smooth the hair. It is typically applied after shampooing and is rinsed out after a few minutes. Conditioner helps to nourish the hair and can help to reduce tangles, frizz, and breakage. Here are some of the best ingredients to look for in a conditioner.
Shea butter is a natural moisturizer that can help to hydrate and nourish the hair. It can also help to reduce frizz and add shine, making it an excellent ingredient for those with dry or damaged hair. Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that can help to hydrate and nourish the hair. It can also help to reduce frizz and prevent breakage, making it a strong choice for those with dry or damaged hair.
Jojoba oil is a natural moisturizer that can help to hydrate the hair and scalp. It can also help to prevent dandruff and promote healthy hair growth.
Argan oil is a rich source of antioxidants and fatty acids that can help to strengthen hair and prevent damage. It can also help to moisturize the hair and reduce frizz for those with dry or frizzy hair.
Keratin is a protein that is naturally found in hair and can help to strengthen hair and prevent breakage. Keratin treatments can help to repair damaged hair and improve its overall health and appearance. Biotin is a B vitamin that can help to promote healthy hair growth. It can also help to strengthen hair and prevent breakage for those with thin or brittle hair.
Panthenol is a form of vitamin B5 that can help to moisturize and strengthen hair. It can also help to add volume and shine to the hair of those with fine or thinning hair. Glycerin is a natural humectant that can help to attract and retain moisture in the hair. It can also help to reduce frizz and improve the hair’s overall appearance for those with dry or damaged hair.
Silk protein is a natural protein that can help to strengthen hair and prevent breakage. It can also help to add shine and smoothness to the hair, making it an excellent ingredient for those with dry or frizzy hair. Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant that can help to protect the hair from damage caused by free radicals. It can also help to moisturize and nourish the hair of those with dry or damaged hair.
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Branded content. Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships so we may receive compensation for some links to products and services. Saw palmetto is the next big thing in hair care. Just over the past few years, it has emerged as a leading ingredient in a variety of hair care products, particularly in shampoos. For those not
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Entertainment
This scene almost broke him. And changed his career.

As Sinners surges into the cultural conversation, it’s impossible to ignore the force of Christian Robinson’s performance. His “let me in” door scene has become one of the film’s defining moments—raw, desperate, and unforgettable. But the power of that scene makes the most sense when you understand the journey that brought him there.
From church play to breakout roles
Christian’s path didn’t begin on a Hollywood set. It started in a Brooklyn church, when a woman named Miss Val kept asking him to be in a play.
“I told her no countless times,” he remembers. “Every time she saw me, she asked me and she wouldn’t stop asking me.”
He finally said yes—and everything changed.
“I did it once and I fell in love,” he says. That one performance pushed him into deep research on the craft, a move to Atlanta, and years of unglamorous work: training, auditioning, stacking small wins until he booked his first roles and then Netflix’s Burning Sands, where many met him as Big Country.
By the time Sinners came along, he wasn’t a newcomer hoping to get lucky. He was an actor who had quietly built the muscles to carry something bigger.
The door scene: life or death
On The Roselyn Omaka Show, Christian shared the directing note Ryan Coogler gave him before filming the door scene:
“He explained to me, ‘I need you to bang on this door as if your life depended on it. Like it’s a matter of life and death.’”
Christian didn’t just turn up the volume; he reached deeper.
“This film speaks a lot about our ancestors,” he told Roselyn Omaka. “So I tried to give a glimpse of what our ancestors would’ve experienced if someone or something that could bring ultimate destruction was after them. How hard would they bang? How loud would they scream to try to get into a place safely? That’s what I intended to convey in that moment.”
That inner picture—life or death, ancestors, ultimate destruction—is why the scene hits like more than a plot beat. It feels like generational memory breaking through a single frame.
Living through a “history” moment in real time
When Roselyn asks what he’s processing as Sinners takes off, Christian admits he’s still inside the wave.
“I’ve never experienced a project with this level of reception and energy and momentum,” he says. “People having their theories and breaking it down and doing reenactments… it’s never been a time like this in my career.”
He’s careful not to over‑define something that’s still unfolding: “There’s no way to give an accurate description of what I’m experiencing while I’m still experiencing it.” He knows he’ll need distance to name it fully.
But he can name one thing: “If I could gather any adjective to describe it, it would be gratefulness. I’m grateful.”
He also feels the weight of what this film might mean long-term:
“To know that I was there for a large amount of the time it was being brought to life, and a part of what the internet is saying will be history… this is something that I’m inspired by—to shoot for the stars in whatever passion rooted in creativity that you possess.”
Music, joy, and the man behind the moment
Christian talks about the music of Sinners as another force that shaped him. The score wasn’t playing nonstop; it showed up in key moments.
“The music was played when it was necessary to be played. But when it was played, it resonated,” he says. Hearing Miles Caton’s songs early, before the world did, he remembers thinking, “This is going to be magical… This is one of the ones right here.”
For all the heaviness of the story, he also brought levity. He laughs about being the jokester on set—singing Juvenile and Lil Wayne in the New Orleans hair and makeup trailer, trying to make everyone smile during Essence Fest weekend. “I’m a fun guy,” he says. “I love to see people laugh and have a good time.”
PATHS for us and opening doors
What might be most revealing is how seriously Christian takes his responsibility off screen. In 2015, sitting in his apartment outside Atlanta, he felt God tell him to start a nonprofit called PATHS.
“I heard from God and he told me to start a nonprofit called PATHS,” he recalls. At first, he and his peers went into schools and inner‑city communities to teach young people “the many different paths to entering the entertainment industry”—not just the craft, but “the practical steps and establishing yourself, like the business of an actor… a stunt person, hair and makeup, etc.”
When the pandemic hit and school visits stopped, he pivoted to a podcast and digital platform: “Fine, I’ll do it,” he laughs. Now PATHS for us lets “anyone anywhere that desires to be in entertainment hear from credible entertainment industry professionals on how they got to where they are and how you can do the same.”
Working on Sinners confirmed that he should go all in: “It just gave me exactly what I needed to know that I should pour my all into it.”
Honoring a history-making moment
As Sinners takes off, Christian keeps coming back to one word: gratefulness—for the film, for the collaborators, for the chance to be part of something people are calling historic.
At Bolanle Media, we see more than a viral scene. We see an artist whose craft is rooted in faith, ancestors, and hard-earned discipline; whose joy lifts the rooms he works in; and whose platform is opening real paths for others.
This scene almost broke him. And changed his career.
Now, as the world catches up, Christian Robinson is using that breakthrough not just to walk through new doors—but to help the next generation find theirs.
Entertainment
7 Filmmaking Lessons From Michael B. Jordan’s Oscar Moment

Michael B. Jordan’s first Oscar win for Sinners isn’t just a milestone for his career — it’s a masterclass for filmmakers watching from the edit bay, the writing desk, or the no‑budget set.
For years, Jordan has been building toward this moment: from early TV roles to his breakout in Fruitvale Station, the cultural shockwave of Black Panther, and his evolution into a producer and director. His Sinners performance and awards run crystallize a set of habits, choices, and values that rising filmmakers can actually use.
1. “Find Your Coogler”: The Power of Long-Term Collaboration
Jordan’s professional story is inseparable from his collaboration with Ryan Coogler. They’ve moved together from intimate indie drama to franchise-level spectacle, and now to awards-season dominance with Sinners.
“Find your people and grow with them, not just next to them.”
For filmmakers, the takeaway is simple:
- Stop thinking in “one‑off” crews.
- Start identifying the producers, DPs, editors, writers, and actors you want to build years of work with.
That kind of trust lets you move faster, go deeper, and take bigger risks together.
2. Preparation That Lets You Jump Off the Cliff
Jordan has talked in interviews about preparing so thoroughly that he can “let go” when the cameras roll. The homework — script work, character study, physical training, emotional research — is what makes the risk possible.
You can translate that directly into a filmmaking workflow:
- Do the table read.
- Break down the script scene by scene.
- Build visual references and emotional maps.
The more you handle before you’re on set, the more you can afford to explore, improvise, and discover in real time.
“Preparation buys you freedom on set.”
3. Take the “Bad Idea” Swing
A key pattern in Jordan’s choices is betting on material that doesn’t always look safe or obvious on paper. Roles and projects that feel intense, specific, or risky are often the ones that end up resonating the most.
For filmmakers, that means:
- Stop sandpapering your scripts into something generic.
- Start protecting the sharp edges — the personal details, the uncomfortable moments, the cultural specifics.
The project that scares you a little might be the one that actually breaks you out.
“If it feels too safe, it’s probably not big enough.”
4. One Hat at a Time (On Purpose)
Jordan is a modern multi-hyphenate — actor, producer, director — but he’s also strategic about when he wears which hat. On some projects, he leans fully into performance and trusts his team with everything else; on others, like Creed III, he steps behind the camera and takes on the entire vision.
Filmmakers can learn from that restraint:
- It’s okay to not direct, shoot, edit, and produce every single project.
- Choosing one primary role per project can sharpen the overall result.
Ask yourself on each film: “What’s the one role where I add the most value here?” Then structure the team accordingly.
“You don’t have to do everything on every film.”

5. Build an Ecosystem, Not Just a Résumé
Through his company and slate, Jordan is doing more than collecting credits. He’s building an ecosystem where the stories he cares about have a home — a pipeline for voices, genres, and perspectives that might not get space elsewhere.
That’s a roadmap for independent filmmakers and media founders:
- Create recurring spaces (a series, a channel, a festival, a label) where your sensibility is the default.
- Think beyond the single film; think in seasons, slates, and communities.
Your “ecosystem” might start as a simple recurring short-film series on your site, or a curated block at a festival. Over time, it becomes infrastructure.
“Don’t just book jobs. Build a world.”
6. Honor the Lineage You Stand On
When he accepted his Oscar, Jordan made a point to acknowledge the Black artists and legends who paved the way before him. That posture matters. It keeps ego in check and places today’s wins inside a longer lineage of struggle and progress.
Filmmakers can mirror that by:
- Citing their influences openly.
- Educating themselves on the history of the craft, especially in their own communities.
- Using their platforms to shine a light on peers and predecessors.
This isn’t just about being gracious; it’s about knowing you’re part of a story bigger than one awards season.
“Your win is a chapter, not the whole book.”
7. Let the Win Raise Your Standards
The most powerful thing about this moment is that it doesn’t feel like a finish line. Jordan’s energy reads as: this is motivation, not retirement. The recognition becomes pressure to work smarter, deeper, and more intentionally.
Filmmakers can turn every “win” — whether it’s an Oscar, a festival laurel, a viral clip, or a private email from someone impacted by your work — into fuel for the next draft and the next shoot.
Ask:
- What did I do well here that I can codify into my process?
- Where did I get lucky, and how can I replace luck with craft next time?
“Treat every win as a new baseline, not a peak.”
Why This Matters for Our Community
At Bolane Media, we see Michael B. Jordan’s Oscar moment not just as a celebrity headline, but as a roadmap for emerging storytellers — especially those building from underrepresented communities and independent spaces.
If you’re a filmmaker reading this:
- Identify one of these seven lessons.
- Apply it to your next project, not the hypothetical big one five years from now.
Then share your work with us. We want to see what you build.
Advice
How to Find Your Voice as a Filmmaker

Every filmmaker aspires to create projects that are not only memorable but also uniquely their own. Finding your creative voice is a journey that requires self-reflection, bold choices, and an unwavering commitment to your vision. Here’s how to uncover your style, take risks, and craft original work that stands out.
1. Discovering Your Voice: Understanding Your Influences
Your unique voice begins with recognizing what inspires you.
- Step 1: Reflect on the themes, genres, or emotions that consistently draw your interest. Are you inspired by human resilience, surreal worlds, or untold histories?
- Step 2: Study the work of filmmakers you admire. Analyze what resonates with you—their use of color, pacing, or narrative techniques.
Tip: Combine what you love with your personal experiences to create a lens that only you can offer.
Example: Wes Anderson’s whimsical, symmetrical worlds stem from his love of classic storytelling and his unique visual style.
Takeaway: Start with what moves you, then add your personal touch.
2. Taking Creative Risks: Experiment and Evolve
To stand out, you must be willing to challenge conventions and explore new territory.
- Experimentation: Try unusual storytelling structures, such as non-linear timelines or silent sequences.
- Collaboration: Work with people outside your usual circle to gain fresh perspectives.
- Feedback: Screen your projects for trusted peers and be open to constructive criticism.
Example: Jordan Peele blended horror with social commentary in Get Out, creating a genre-defying film that captivated audiences.
Takeaway: Risks are an opportunity for growth, even if they don’t always succeed.
3. Telling Original Stories: Start with Authenticity
Original projects resonate when they stem from a place of truth.
- Draw from Experience: Incorporate elements of your own life, culture, or worldview into your stories.
- Explore the “Why”: Ask yourself why this story matters to you and how it connects with your audience.
- Avoid Trends: Focus on timeless narratives rather than chasing current fads.
Example: Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird was deeply personal, based on her experiences growing up in Sacramento. The film’s authenticity made it universally relatable.
Takeaway: The more personal the story, the more it resonates.
4. Developing Your Style: Consistency Meets Creativity
Style is not just about visuals—it’s how you tell a story across all elements of filmmaking.
- Visual Language: Experiment with colors, lighting, and framing to create a distinct aesthetic.
- Narrative Voice: Develop consistent themes or motifs across your projects.
- Sound Design: Use music, sound effects, and silence to evoke specific emotions.
Example: Quentin Tarantino’s use of dialogue, pop culture references, and bold music choices makes his work instantly recognizable.
Takeaway: Your style should be intentional, evolving as you grow but always recognizable as yours.
5. Staying True to Yourself: Building Confidence in Your Vision
The filmmaking process is full of challenges, but staying true to your voice is essential.
- Stay Authentic: Trust your instincts, even if your ideas seem unconventional.
- Adapt Without Compromise: Be open to feedback but maintain your core vision.
- Celebrate Your Growth: View every project, successful or not, as a stepping stone in your creative journey.
Example: Ava DuVernay shifted from public relations to filmmaking, staying true to her voice in films like Selma and 13th, which focus on social justice.
Takeaway: Your voice evolves with every project, so embrace the process.
Conclusion: From Idea to Screen, Your Voice is Your Superpower
Finding your voice as a filmmaker takes time, courage, and commitment. By exploring your influences, taking risks, and staying true to your perspective, you’ll craft stories that not only stand out but also resonate deeply with your audience.
Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!
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