On Your Radar: Naa Adei Mante

On Your Radar is a weekly Grad Film News Segment that features a student picked at Random.

WHERE DO YOU CONSIDER HOME AND WHAT IS IT LIKE THERE?

Any place where I can feel free. But cities with a beach, friendly people, and warm weather are always preferred.

I was born and raised in the DMV, but both of my parents and the rest of my lineage are from Ghana, so I have deep personal ties to both countries. I feel like I’m at peace every time I go back to Maryland or visit extended family in Ghana, so I feel comfortable calling both places home.

WHAT IS CURRENTLY INSPIRING YOU AS A FILMMAKER?

Life. Past experiences. The euphoric feelings of happiness that I witness when I’m surrounded by large groups of Black people all over the world. It’s hard to say. Personally, I like satire and enjoy using film to make comedic social commentaries, so I find inspiration from the vibrant world around me. I like to observe people in the real world and try to translate their lived experience into something authentic for viewers. 

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST REWARDING EXPERIENCE AT NYU TISCH GRAD FILM SO FAR?

The Commercials Production Class was a really transformative experience for me at Tisch. It was the first time that I was able to take the vague images in my head and translate them into clear visuals on the screen. I am happy with the way the commercial turned out, but I am even prouder of the amazing collaboration that took place with my production team to make the story come to life. Between the useful feedback from my classmates and my professor (turned mentor), Kevin Wilson, the amazingly creative visions of both my Producer and my DP, and the cooperativeness of the brand, Nappy Head Club, I think we made a stunning commercial, and I feel excited to make more films like that as I transition into becoming a professional director in the future!