Ashton Pina

Ashton Pina (He/King) is an outrageous storyteller who is deeply committed to amplifying the voices of diverse characters and creators. His award-winning first feature, Nana’s Boys (Inside Out, NewFest, aGLIFF & Out on Film) was acquired by Breaking Glass Pictures. Ashton’s short films, In The Paint (Outfest) and FAYTH (Pan African) are available on YouTube. He received an MFA in Film from The City College of New York, MBA in Media Management from Metropolitan College of New York, and studied Acting at Florida International University. Ashton supported Radha Blank on The Forty-Year-Old Version as Director’s Assistant and has been blessed with amazing opportunities like working with Lena Waithe and Beyoncé. With a fierce passion to empower the next generation of storytellers, the New Bedford, Ma native supports LGBTQ+ youth filmmakers through the Queer Storytelling Project and recently launched a non-profit to award scholarships to HIV+ college students.

FILMMAKER Q&A

What has been the best trick of filmmaking you’ve learned so far in your journey?

The best trick of filmmaking I’ve learned is to just do it and stop waiting for the right amount of money or the perfect script and trust the process. Mistakes are bound to happen but it’s through trying that I learned the best. Creativity is guided by small action steps that ultimately lead to something bigger. By committing courageously and boldly to taking it one step at a time, the universe will follow and will always provide.

Still from “Nana's Boys”

Favorite Film or TV show you're obsessed with?

Abbott Elementary is an easy obsession. Everything is top-tier on this show. However, I was resistant to getting into The Last of Us but whew the storytelling and the world is so dynamic that I can’t get enough of it. 

Still from “Nana's Boys”

Any Oscar Predictions/ who are you rooting for?

I’m rooting for everybody Black. I’d love to see the Academy recognize more women directors but that’s a different story. 

Still from “Nana's Boys”

What's next for you/ in the works?

I’m in the process of developing my next feature which follows a brother’s hunt for his missing sibling. I’m excited about stepping out of my comfort zone to craft a suspenseful and thrilling story that is also grounded in my framework as a storyteller. I'm looking forward to supporting a cohort of emerging Queer storytellers and screenwriters at Lambda Literary Writer's Retreat this summer.

Behind-the-scenes photo from “Nana’s Boys”

Ideal Valentines date?

I might be biased but cuddled up on the couch watching Nana’s Boys with some Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. ;)

Behind-the-scenes photo from “Nana’s Boys”

“Nana’s Boys” will be released on streaming platforms on February 7rd, 2023!
Synopsis: Nana’s Boys is an intimate peek into the relationship of Amari and Q. On the morning of his 30th Birthday, Amari struggles to make decisions on what’s next and defining his purpose. Q is on track become the youngest partner at his law firm and plans an elaborate soiree to celebrate this milestone of his long-time partner. The day takes a rattling turn when an explosion cuts off utilities across New York City and forces the city into a mandatory lockdown. Their relationship is tested as the couple grapples with memories that could shatter their plans altogether.