Every story has a beginning—this one starts with DirectedXDave.
Two special agents are tracking a new name on the rise—a creative force making noise behind the camera. His style? Bold. His vision? Unfiltered. His “crimes”? Directing fire content and getting ready to make a debut to YouTube.
In this cinematic short, the agents dig into my story, my work, and why I’m officially on their radar. Spoiler alert: I’m here now. And I’m just getting started.
🕵️♂️ This is The Watchlist Part 1—a playful but powerful introduction to who I am and what’s coming.
If you’re into storytelling, filmmaking, or just want to watch the journey from the very beginning—
🔔 Subscribe now and join me for everything that’s coming next.
Directed by: Me, @directedxdave
Production Company: @filmyoufamily
DP: @drewmitchelldop
Cam Op: @kingdomlensproductions
AC: @89kings
Sound Mixer: @professorxsound
BTS: @grace.renay
#DirectorDave #TheWatchlist #ShortFilm #YouTubeDebut #CreativeOnTheRise #FilmYouFamily
Check out the newest episode of our documentary series “Highlight Real” where we focus on telling the stories and experiences of real people. This episode highlights Nyara and Brandon Wells who conquered leukemia amidst pregnancy and giving birth. Episode drops 6/24/24 @ 7PM on YouTube. Link in bio.
Since 2016, we’ve been chasing the feeling before we had the language for it.
Long nights and the kind of belief that keeps you creating before anyone is watching.
In 2018, we reshaped the identity and kept building.
Every project sharpened the vision. Every challenge refined the craft.
Now, Dissonant Pictures steps forward with deeper intention, clearer perspective, and a higher standard for what we create and who we create it with.
To the artists with something to say.
To the brands ready to be felt, not just seen.
To the agencies looking for partners who care about story as much as execution.
To the filmmakers and creatives building the future with us.
We’re here to make work that lasts.
Built in Atlanta. Made for the masses.
The next chapter is already in motion. 🎬
Behind the Scenes: Breaking Down Highlight REAL
Highlight REAL is more than a show—it’s a platform that shines a light on real people and the stories that have shaped their lives. In this video, I’m pulling back the curtain to show you exactly how I approach directing an episode from start to finish.
From finding the story and deciding how to tell it, to the choices I made in shooting and the creative vision behind every frame—this is a raw look inside my process as a director.
🔍 What you’ll see:
How I discovered and connected with the people featured
The storytelling techniques I used to bring their stories to life
Behind-the-scenes of the shoot — setups, lighting, and mood
My thought process on pacing, tone, and emotion
If you’re passionate about storytelling, filmmaking, or just curious about how impactful real-life stories come together on screen, this video is for you.
✨ Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell for more behind-the-scenes content and creative insights!
📽️ Directed by: DirectorXDave
🎬 Produced by: FilmYouFamily
#HighlightREAL #Storytelling #DirectorDave #FilmmakingBreakdown #RealStories #FilmYouFamily
How to Shoot a Short Film for Under $3K | DirectedXDave Breakdown
Think you need Hollywood money to make something great? Think again.
In this video, I’m breaking down exactly how I shot a cinematic short film for less than $3,000—from gear and crew to locations and strategy. Whether you’re just starting out or trying to level up on a budget, this one’s for you.
You don’t need millions—you need vision. Let’s get into it.
🔔 Subscribe for more filmmaking gems and behind-the-scenes breakdowns.
🎬 Directed by: DirectorXDave
🎥 Produced by: FilmYouFamily
#ShortFilmOnABudget #FilmmakingTips #DirectorDave #Under3KFilm #IndieFilmmaking #FilmYouFamily
