Director’s Statement

When I started filming what is now Bike Vessel, it was nothing more than capturing some home video. My father, Donnie, challenged my wife to a game of tennis, and within less than an hour, we realized he was outmatched and out of shape. The day wasn't unique, and there was no further plan to create a story or even make a film. I was simply recording my family on my phone. But when I would playback the footage for my dad, something miraculous would take place.

I’d never forget that moment. While he doesn’t easily show his emotions, I could see the shame and anger that overtook him as he watched. It was at this moment that he realized just how out of shape he had grown—and what that meant for his life. The next day, he purchased a bike and was determined to make a change. My dad had already had three, quadruple heart bypass surgeries, but it was seeing himself perform so poorly on the court that ignited the desire for change. That is the power of film.

I decided to film his progress over the next few months because, prior to the tennis match with my wife, we had never discussed his health issues and with each story he shared, I wanted to know more, go deeper. This film became the catalyst for a new stage of my relationship with my dad, one filled with never-before-had conversations, and ultimately, deeper connection. The more we filmed, the more I realized his cautionary tales were more than reflections—he was giving me the blueprint to a healthy, long life. I created this film to share this blueprint with the rest of my community, especially with other Black men because we also deserve to grow old. I want them to witness the power of determination, support, exercise and love.