Summer in St. Louis: FULL

“Summer in St. Louis” is a visual ode to the city’s 2021 summer ambiance directed by artist and filmmaker Cami Thomas, DPd by Papa Blankson, edited by Jazzy Kettenacker and musically scored by Mvstermind. The short video is encompassed by a gripping poem (also written by Thomas and produced and narrated by Mvstermind) that depicts the experience in a Midwestern city marked by hope, uncertainty, and everything in-between.

The poem taps into the reality of a shifting tide in St. Louis and the response of its residents - Thomas and her community included. The visual elements evoke a sense of purpose and promise that complements the blunt, apocalyptic truths echoed throughout the audio narration. With references to the book of Revelations of the bible, Thomas provides a raw and realistic interpretation of the progress (and lack thereof) of racial relations in St. Louis. “Summer in St.Louis” also serves as an artistic return for Thomas who released the acclaimed docu-series of her hometown entitled “Smoke City” in 2018.

Between the powerful truths echoed throughout the video and captivating images that bring viewers into the city, “Summer in St.Louis” celebrates the complex reality of summer in one of the country's most misconceived cities and cements St. Louis' place in the country's past and potential future revolutions.

Team:
Directed - Cami Thomas
DP - Papa Blankson
Edited - Jazzy Kettenacker
Musical score - Mvstermind
PA - Karis Gamble
Creative Direction, group scene - Sir Eddie C (Eddie Cox)
Photo - Gregory Cross
Featured - Jullienne Edwards, Maya Ferrell, Jacques Hughes II and III
Illustrations, promo - Taylor Henderson
Narration - Mvstermind, Cami Thomas, Richard Mansfield IV, and Nyara Williams
Dedicated to - the city of St. Louis