Colson Baker receives Discovery Award for “Taurus”
Written by Katelyn Myrick. Photo courtesy of Ashton Melton.
From growing up in Cleveland to having albums go platinum to receiving the Discovery Award at the SCAD Savannah Film Festival, Colson Baker has become an inspiration. He is proof that no matter where you come from, you can achieve anything if you work hard.
Baker received the Discovery Award for his latest film, Taurus, which will be released in November. The film left audience members shocked and captivated by the inspirational storytelling and beautiful acting Baker achieved. Taurus is about a musician struggling to create music because of his addiction and personal troubles.
One thing that stood out to the audience – especially the viewers who were familiar with his music – were the similarities to his album “Hotel Diablo” and some specific songs within the album. The songs that mimic the film more obviously are the fourth track titled “Glass House,” the tenth track titled “Death in my Pocket”, and the eleventh track “Candy ft. Trippie Redd.”
The song “Glass House” features Naomi Wild, who plays Lena in the film, a struggling artist at the beginning of her career. Viewers who are confused and conflicted with the film should listen to Baker’s album “Hotel Diablo” and the songs previously mentioned, as they provide more insight into the film.
Following the screening of “Taurus,” Baker came back to the stage to answer some questions while also interacting with his fans. When asked about the production of this film, he explained how the writer and director Tim Sutton had created this script that was heavily inspired by Baker and parts of his life. Sutton had come to Baker about the possibility of playing himself. Baker went more in-depth about the impact of this film, explaining that he had read a review earlier in the day that wasn’t in favor of the meaning and acting of the film.
He said that those reviews are a reflection of their own insecurities and that the purpose of “Taurus” was to reach those who need it: Those struggling with addiction, family trauma or creative struggle.
“This film will matter for the kid who needs something to attach to and to find understanding with,” Baker said.
Our honoree for the 2022 Discovery Award has helped and inspired so many, and he will continue to inspire with more projects. His story shows that anyone can grow and create.
