By staff
Tell us About your company and Services
Moon’k Films Devoted is a global independent film company. We are comprised of a team of experts in television and movie/film production and have worked on projects across the U.S. and internationally. We have received congressional awards and have even been featured in The Nation’s Capital business journal as one of the top 25 production companies and the top 25 business leading companies. As a National Minority Business Enterprise (NMBE) certified business, we have premiered several full-length feature films, documentaries, film shorts, and promotional visuals across the U.S. and received outstanding reviews for our cinematic, storyline, and presentation.
How do you fund your projects?
The majority of our projects are funded through Devoted’s commercial arm. As a production company, we not only produce our own films and provide a plethora of production services for our independent projects but also offer them to those in need of our services. The revenue generated from our client work allows us to maintain creative control over our projects by self-financing them and maintaining the integrity of our work.
Tell us about your film The Shot and your experience shooting in South Africa.
I created ‘The Shot’ because I wanted to tell a story that has been overlooked for more than a half-century now. As we approach the 56th Anniversary of Dr. Rev King assassination, It has always baffled me that the accused assassin of Dr. King, James Earl Ray, a man with a record of petty crimes and a man who did not seem very intelligent, pulled off such a heinous crime of assignation that will go down in American History. The majority of us are all aware of the key figures who witnessed the horrible assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Like Ralph David Abernathy, Jesse Jackson, and Andrew Young. I found it very intriguing to learn about the young South African photographer Joseph Louw, who was with Dr. King and had been in his company for some time. All the while, he was doing a documentary on the late Dr. King. So I took my frustration of who I believe was just a fall guy in Dr. King’s assassination and wanted to tell the story of the humble young photographer behind the camera. Through all of these things, I created ‘The Shot.’
After an apartheid-fueled controversy forces him to leave his South African home, photographer Joseph Louw sets out to document the travels of civil rights pioneer Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Little did he know that he would be capturing some of the final moments of King’s life. April 4th, 1968, just minutes after King’s horrifying assassination, chaos ensues, but Louw has enough clarity to capture a moment in time that would end up being a monumental moment in history.
Going to South Africa to put together this film has been an eye-opening experience. Not only did I foster a new connection to the motherland, but I also met a lot of great people who were doing great work in South Africa. I was able to sit down with the family of the subject of the film and see never before seen photos, and learn never before told stories. This pursuit of making this film has truly taught me the significance of “The journey is the destination.”
How do you stay motivated in such a competitive industry?
Staying motivated in a highly competitive industry like filmmaking requires a deep passion for storytelling and a clear sense of purpose. Filmmakers must constantly remind themselves why they started, focusing on their unique voice and vision, which sets them apart from others. Building a strong support network of like-minded creatives and mentors can provide encouragement and perspective during challenging times. It’s important to celebrate small victories and milestones, as these keep the momentum going when larger successes seem far off. Embracing failure as part of the learning process helps in maintaining resilience and adaptability in a field that is often unpredictable. Consistent self-improvement, through learning new skills or refining one’s craft, ensures that a filmmaker remains competitive and ready for new opportunities. Lastly, staying inspired by the work of others, while avoiding comparison, can reignite the creative spark and remind filmmakers of the infinite possibilities the industry holds.
Tell us about the most significant project you’ve completed.
All of my projects hold significant value to me, and I pour my heart into everything I do—whether it’s capturing someone’s birthday shoot or contributing to larger conferences that our team is involved in. I believe that every endeavor, regardless of its scale, deserves the same level of dedication and care. This commitment ensures that I deliver the best possible outcome for every client and every story.
However, if I had to pick one project that stands out as particularly significant, it would be “The Shot.” The time and effort that went into the production were extraordinary, thanks to the incredible work from our team. It was a period piece that required us to recreate numerous elements from the 1960s, and being part of that process was truly rewarding.
The travel back and forth to South Africa was essential in ensuring that all the elements we included were authentic. Connecting with family members of the individuals I was presenting information about and collaborating with the ANC in South Africa added immense value to this project. Visiting the areas where Joseph Louw grew up and conducting thorough research were incredibly fulfilling experiences. The post-production phase further illuminated why undertaking this story was so important.
Sharing the stories of remarkable individuals, such as Martin Luther King Jr., felt like a great honor. It was a privilege to help tell the stories of these amazing trailblazers who played pivotal roles in history. The experience extended beyond production; it was about honoring their legacies and ensuring their contributions are remembered.
What advice would you give someone who seeks to produce films/documentaries?
As a seasoned filmmaker, my first piece of advice to anyone wishing to enter this field is to embrace the art of storytelling. Every frame, every scene, and every cut must serve the story you’re trying to tell. Don’t be afraid to start small—whether it’s a short film or a simple concept, the important thing is to begin creating. Film is a collaborative medium, so building a strong network of reliable, talented people is essential. Learn to wear multiple hats; understanding cinematography, sound, and editing will only make you a stronger director. Always remain open to feedback, as it’s one of the fastest ways to grow. Be persistent—rejection is part of the process, but perseverance separates the dreamers from the doers. Study the films that inspire you, but don’t mimic them; develop your unique voice. Technology has made filmmaking more accessible, so take advantage of it, but never let gadgets replace the importance of human connection in your stories. Lastly, passion and discipline will carry you further than talent alone—stay committed to the journey, and the rest will follow.
How do you view success?
Success, to me, isn’t defined by the titles, the accolades, or even the financial gain. It’s more about waking up every day with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Early in my journey, I thought success was about hitting certain milestones—getting the promotions, earning the respect, and reaching financial security. But over time, I’ve learned that true success is much deeper. It’s about living in alignment with my values and making an impact on the people around me. The greatest moments of success, in my experience, are often the ones that come quietly, when no one is watching—the times when I’ve overcome a challenge or helped someone else achieve their goals. It’s about continuous growth, learning, and resilience. I’ve had my share of setbacks, but each one taught me a valuable lesson and made the successes that much sweeter. Success is also about balance—finding time for loved ones, for self-care, and for passion projects. It’s a journey, not a destination, and it evolves as you grow. Ultimately, success means finding joy and meaning in both the triumphs and the struggles.
About
Trey Carswell Bio:
As the CEO of Moon’k Films Devoted Production Studios Carswell has been the driving force behind the company’s rise to become the most sought-after independent film studio. Under his leadership, Moon’k Films Devoted Production Studios has garnered numerous accolades, including congressional awards, features in national magazines, and outstanding reviews from industry critics.
In addition to his achievements in the film industry, Carswell is a proactive leader dedicated to his community. He has expanded his efforts by hosting charity events aimed at collecting toys for underprivileged youth. Through his humanitarian initiatives, Carswell is committed to not only growing his company but also providing valuable resources and opportunities for the next generation. His vision reflects a deep commitment to both artistic excellence and social responsibility.
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