Tomás Is Not a Clown

Tomás is not a clown

written and directed

by jordan saint james

About the writer and director

Jordan Saint James is a visionary force to be reckoned with in the realm of storytelling. As a talented writer and director, Jordan has captivated audiences with her award-winning webseries pilot, which has been making waves on the festival circuit. Currently, their creative focus is on the thought-provoking short film "Tomás Is Not a Clown," a project that has garnered recognition in esteemed screenplay competitions across New York. But Jordan's passion for visual storytelling doesn't stop there; they are constantly immersed in video productions throughout the year, crafting compelling narratives that leave a lasting impact with an unparalleled ability to weave together emotion, depth, and authenticity.

See more work

A film about chasing your dreams with a shattered sense of identity

Tomás has auditioned for the last five years to become the broadcaster for the Brooklyn Cyclones baseball team. On the day of the results, Tomás struggles with past rejections and the opinions of coworkers that completely shatter his sense of self.

look & feel

fluid sense of reality, surrealism, immersive, emotion-centered drama

tone & Style

air of stillness, solitude vs environment, strong grains, angel lighting

Meeting Tomás in his element

A 25-year-old working in corporate. In his passions he is strong, brave and naturally commands attention just by his words. Outside of that, he’s this doormat that's going to grin and bear the world. Fated to chase the crowd reaction if he doesn’t grow in his own confidence he’s with a choice to keep pursing it or give up.

SCENE SNEAK PEEK

We first discover Tomás by his interests. - aspirational men's magazines and baseball memorabilia. Then by his voice making an audition tape. A strong, silky bravado that commands attention easily narrates a play he saw for the first time as a kid.

We're now in the memory of him and his father listening the play on a radio. His dad celebrates and we can tell this is a warm, core memory just by the look of sheer awe and wonder on young Tomás' face.

Draco being mean for 3 minutes straight

RAY

An imposing figure unconsciously voicing his disbelief as friendly advice, big-ego that can’t read the room. Seeing Tomás and Brandon brings out his worst, but is this him or just a result of having had to give up his own dream.

WHITNEY

The voice of encouragement and tough love. She empathizes the search for purpose. She found hers in HR. She’s the type to come in early and leave late if a project demands it and spent hours working over takeout with Tomás.

HOORAE - BUILD THE TABLE

From one clown to another:

Brandon

Tomás' best friend and coworker is an artist. He’s chasing his dreams so wholeheartedly you can’t help but root for him as he obsesses over his pieces. In public, He can give an Oscar worthy speech but, under the bravado is a deep rooted fear and anxiety - a perfectionism that can tear him apart.

superbad

Where we are in production

OCTOBER - DECEMBER	JANUARY	FEBRUARY - MARCH	APRIL
Development of story, lookbook, locations, shotlist, key crew & cast	Final lock-ins of cast, crew, location, and logistic details.	Pre-production: logistics, equipment tests, rehearsals, wardrobe, & production design	Filming