#United States #Baltimore #Mark Anthony Thomas #Ziaire Mann #Richard Yeagley

In Need of Seawater: A Unique Approach to Poetry on Film

Premiere Date: January 10, 2026

The documentary short In Need of Seawater, crafted by writer Mark Anthony Thomas, seeks to redefine the relationship between poetry and visual storytelling. Instead of following conventional documentary norms, it offers a dynamic and engaging cinematic experience, integrating performance art as its backbone. This strategy allows poetry to transcend textual form, creating a multi-layered emotional journey for viewers.

The Essence of the Film

In a world increasingly connected by visual media, In Need of Seawater stands out by celebrating the spoken word through film. Critics have lauded the documentary for its unique exploration of personal narratives that resonate with broader themes of identity and resilience. The film's structure is anything but traditional; it opts for a visceral presentation where emotion is conveyed through performances rather than interviews or historical timelines.

Mark Anthony Thomas, the film’s creator, encapsulates crucial periods in his life through poetry that challenges societal narratives surrounding Black identity in America. The film follows a young Black man grappling with his sense of self while exploring the legacy of civil rights—an intimate look at the intricacies of striving for voice and authorship beyond societal definitions based on credentials or roles.

Behind the Lens: A Collaborative Effort

Directed by Richard Yeagley, the film draws upon the contributions of a talented ensemble cast led by Ziaire Mann. The alliance between Thomas’s evocative poetry and the performers’ interpretations enriches the viewing experience, creating a shared emotional space that captures the essence of each poem. Yeagley notes, "We aimed to immerse the audience within the poetry, allowing them to feel as though they were part of the performance itself."

Artistic Evolution

What began as a simple poetry performance evolved into a more intricate narrative, incorporating dynamic visual metaphors and imagery that enhance the thematic discourse. This added depth creates a dialogue between memory, performance, and personal history, offering viewers a broader understanding of Thomas’s world.

Local Roots and Future Aspirations

Fully produced in Baltimore and showcasing local talent, In Need of Seawater also serves as the inaugural installment in a planned trilogy exploring creative life across temporal frameworks—delving into past influences and future aspirations while considering the present. Mark’s commitment to his roots is evident in the film, as he reflects on formative experiences that have shaped his artistry.

A New Perspective on Poetry

In a world where art often struggles to break free from academic confines, In Need of Seawater offers a refreshing perspective. It bridges gaps between literary appreciation and public consumption, inviting both poetry aficionados and general audiences to experience the depth of poetic storytelling. Thomas’s vision for the film is not only to share his work but also to inspire a collective experience of resilience and vulnerability.

Overall, In Need of Seawater represents a new frontier in documentary filmmaking, showcasing how the art of poetry can be brought to life. As it prepares for its premiere on January 10, 2026, the film is poised to encourage conversations about identity, art, and the role of performance in our understanding of poetry. For more insights and resources, visit Mark Anthony Thomas' official site.