Join Countdown City Geeks for an interview with actors Richard C. Jones and Hollis L. Edwards III as we discuss their exciting new project, THE RELIC | DRAGON! Filmed right here in Texas, this project showcases the talent and creativity of filmmakers bringing their vision to life in the Lone Star State. We sit down with Jones and Edwards to discuss their roles, their experiences working director J.M. Logan, the film-making process, and what audiences can expect from this new project.

Director Josh Logan is now stranger to the film industry and his resume is both extensive and impressive. He got his start in the art department and worked on a handful of films including one of the sequels in The Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise. Later he dabbled in visual effects work on films like Apocalypto and The Passion of the Christ. He now sets his sights on directing and brings his vast wealth of knowledge and passion for Texas filmmaking to the project.

From the cast and characters to the experience of filming in Texas, get an inside look at THE RELIC | DRAGON straight from the actors themselves!

To get more info on the film visit: https://www.therelicuniverse.com/

Synopsis: The story follows two estranged sisters pulled into a mystery surrounding a cursed Viking treasure, a lost manuscript connected to conquistador Francisco Coronado, and an ancient relic capable of unleashing something much bigger than anyone expected. But the story behind the movie is almost as wild as the movie itself.

Join Countdown City Geeks for an interview with filmmaker Will Niava, the director behind the buzzworthy new short film JAZZ INFERNAL! With the film generating Oscar buzz and attracting attention in the media, we sit down with Niava to discuss the inspiration behind the project, his creative vision, the process of making this short film, and the story that is helping JAZZ INFERNAL stand out on the film festival scene. The film in general is profound and it’s truly remarkable just how much Niava was able to incorporate from his own life. The amount of passion and care put into this project can be felt with every frame. Scratch that…every note.

Discover the story behind this rising awards-season contender as Niava shares insights into bringing JAZZ INFERNAL to life and what it means to see his work gaining recognition.

To find out more about the film and which festivals you can see it, visit www.willniava.com.

Synopsis: Koffi, a young Ivorian trumpeter, arrives in Montreal with nothing but the legacy of his father to guide him. Lost between the city’s noise and the silence of his past, he must confront his roots to finally find his own voice.

Book Review: You’re a Superhero 

Azie Tesfai made history on Supergirl as the first Ethiopian and Eritrean actor to portray a superhero on screen. Now, she’s bringing that same spirit of representation and inspiration to a new generation of young readers.

DC has officially announced You’re a Superhero!, a new children’s graphic novel written by Azie Tesfai for readers ages 5–7. The book celebrates the idea that being a hero isn’t always about having superpowers—it’s about kindness, courage, confidence, and believing in yourself.

In our interview, we talk with Azie about the inspiration behind You’re a Superhero!, representation, creating stories for children, and why every kid has the potential to be a hero in their own way.

Azie Tesfai and artist Penelope Rivera Gaylord have put together an amazing book for kids with You’re a Superhero.

As I got into the first couple of pages, I was immediately taken back to when I was a kid and saw Superman and Spider-Man on TV for the first time. There was something about those characters that made me believe anyone could be a hero.

As I continued reading, I was reminded of Reading Rainbow. I could almost hear LeVar Burton introducing a new book and encouraging us to open our minds and explore new stories. That iconic theme song even popped into my head while I was reading. This book made me feel like a kid again.

The story follows Mariam and her mom as they head to the grocery store. Along the way, Mariam meets everyday people doing their jobs and asks her mom if they are superheroes. Her mom explains that, in their own way, they are. And that is what makes this book so special.

It teaches kids that you don’t need a cape or a suit to be a superhero. Being kind, helping others, working hard, and making the world a better place are all superpowers.

I truly believe this is a book that should be in every preschool and kindergarten classroom. It has a wonderful message that can inspire kids to see the world the way we all should—with kindness, compassion, and an appreciation for the everyday heroes around us. I feel every parent should read this book with their kids.

And, just like LeVar Burton would say:

“But you don’t have to take my word for it.” 

Overall, You’re a Superhero is a wonderful book with a powerful message. Azie Tesfai and Penelope Rivera Gaylord have created something that can inspire a whole new generation of superheroes.