From Actor to Director: Kaamel 'Diezel' Mathis on His Directorial Debut White Lies, Detroit’s Film Scene, and What’s Next

temp-post-image


Kaamel Hasaun Mathis, known in the entertainment industry as Diezel, has made his directorial debut with the film White Lies, now streaming on Tubi. Known for his talent in front of the camera, Diezel has transitioned to the director’s chair with a film that dives into the complexities of deception, truth, and moral struggle.

White Lies centers around characters grappling with the consequences of hidden truths and the power of lies in shaping lives. Diezel brings a unique vision to the story, combining his knowledge of storytelling with a fresh perspective on human nature. The film has been praised for its raw performances, tight narrative, and ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Diezel’s transition from actor to director represents a significant step in his career, showcasing his versatility and deep understanding of the filmmaking process. With White Lies, he demonstrates a talent for capturing intense emotion and moral ambiguity, marking him as a promising new director to watch. Fans and critics alike are eager to see what Diezel will bring to the screen next, as his debut establishes him as a powerful voice in independent cinema.

temp-post-image



We recently caught up with him. Here is a bit of our discussion.

BMM: How would you describe your directing style?
KM: I have a Fluent style, I’m more about the flow and the feel for the moment. I feel like when creating there are no rules.

BMM:Who are some of your favorite movie directors and why?
KM: Quentin Tarantino is my favorite because of his detailed storytelling, he places you there in the scene when he’s directing by detailing specific elements and items in the scene. John Singleton (RIP), Antoine Fuqua, Gary Gray, Michael Bay, Jerry Brucheimer, to name some of my other favorites lol

BMM:DETROIT has led the independent film market. Why do you think that is?
KM: Detroiters are just a different breed, we don’t play when it’s time to put on, fashion, entertainment, anything we do here it’s heavy because there’s a standard set.

BMM: What is your process like for writing a script?
KM: I usually build the idea/concept in my head then chapter out a story line before I get into the actual screenplay.

BMM: What’s your favorite film of all times?
KM: Django

temp-post-image

BMM: What’s next for you?
KM: Im in post production for my next project “YOU TOXIC AF” coming from Diezel Power Filmz and also in preproduction for the next film I’m going to produce titled “ULTIMATUM”.

BMM: When did you realize you were interested in acting and directing?
KM: I’ve wanted to be an actor pretty much my whole life, I realized directing was my next move in 2021 .