Berner talks about directing and co-writing ‘Splash City’

Berner chatted with #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos about directing and co-writing “Splash City.”

In this crime thriller, two brothers, Juju (Reed Shannon) and Slim, struggle to survive the streets of San Francisco, where loyalty can turn into betrayal in an instant. While Slim sees basketball as his way out, Juju falls deeper into a life of smash-and-grab robberies under the control of a backstabbing crew leader.

As tensions rise, the brothers must choose between fighting for a brighter future or succumbing to the violent legacy that threatens to consume them both.

What inspired you to write and direct Splash City? 

I’ve been wanting to elevate my storytelling through film for a while now. I was motivated by the moment in time in the city of San Francisco where by the way was a very big issue and it kind of took over the city. 

What was it like working with the cast and crew? 

It was cool. It was a big learning experience. It’s kind of like going to film school for myself. I learned how to write, direct, and edit. I’ve been doing film editing for a while when it comes to many documentary series, etc., but doing a film is a whole other ballgame. 

What did this screenplay teach you about yourself? 

Anything is possible if I put my mind to it. I can get it done. I proved that over and over again with different ventures, but the screenplay kind of taught me that it is definitely possible for myself to put an idea to paper and then execute it through creating a film.

I was kind of nervous about the whole process, but being able to write it down, turn it into a script, shoot it, and edit it and put it on the big screen taught me that anything is possible. 

What was your favorite part of the filmmaking experience? 

Maybe the video village. I like to sit back and watch the shots in real time. Having my little headphone pack and my chair right there, with the screen playing back the different takes, was my favorite part. 

How does it feel to be a filmmaker in the digital age? 

It feels great. I think there’s a lot more opportunity to get your film seen besides traditional theater. With all the streaming services, everyone’s dying for content, so as a guy putting up the money and taking a risk, I feel good about it. 

What is your advice for young and aspiring filmmakers? 

Try to do it yourself. I know it seems impossible at some point in time while in the creative process, but if you fund the film yourself or find people you love and trust to fund the film, you don’t have to detour from your vision. That’s my advice. 

What does the word “success” mean to you? 

Success to me means to be able to do what you want when you want to and work with who you want to when you want to. 

What would you like to say to the fans of the movie? What’s the one thing you want them to get out of “Splash City”? 

What I really want for them to get out of the movies is more crime stories from myself and the Bay Area in general. I want to kind of kick off the want and need for more content out of my area. 

“Splash City” will be available On Digital and on VOD this Friday, September 4th, 2026.