James Williams Will Screen Film at Howard University
The debut urban drama Squatta is set for a special homecoming screening on October 10.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Urban
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Filmmaker and military veteran James Williams will present his debut urban drama, Squatta, at Howard University on October 10. The screening will coincide with the institution's annual homecoming celebrations.
Why it matters
The event highlights the creative return of a Howard alumnus who spent over two decades serving in the military. It offers the university community a first look at an independent film before its wider release later this year.
The production operated on a budget of US$250,000, with principal photography spanning locations from Warrenton, Georgia, to Kingston, Jamaica.
The players
James Williams
He is a filmmaker and former United States Army captain who served 21 years in the military.
Howard University
This private, federally chartered historically Black research university is located in Washington, D.C.
Mr Easy
He is a Jamaican dancehall deejay who appears as an actor in the film.
The details
The urban drama features performances from actors Christopher Daley, Stokley Brown, and Kadeem Wilson, as well as dancehall deejay Mr Easy. Williams, a former United States Army captain, first drafted the script for the project back in 2008.
Timeline
2008: James Williams graduated from Howard University and wrote the film's initial draft.
Early 2025: Production on the film began in Warrenton, Georgia.
June 2026: The production team conducted two rounds of filming in Kingston, Jamaica.
October 10, 2026: The university will host the official pre-screening of the film.
Industry Dynamics
This event highlights the increasing trend of independent filmmakers leveraging university platforms and alumni networks to build momentum for debut projects. By aligning with established cultural traditions like homecoming, creators can reach target audiences effectively while bypassing traditional marketing barriers.
Students and alumni attending homecoming can access the premiere screening directly on campus during the festivities. The event offers an early opportunity to view the independent production before it becomes available to the general public later this year.
The takeaway
The project serves as a case study in long-term creative dedication, as the writer spent nearly two decades developing the script alongside a 21-year military career. For aspiring filmmakers, it demonstrates the value of patience and leveraging academic ties to gain exposure for independent work.
Further reading
Explore more local arts and culture events in the Urban section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Jamaica Observer.
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