James Barker is a self-described multi-cellular chemical reaction. As a writer, director, editor, and photographer, they don't like to sit still. 

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His latest project, Remnants of Nova, is currently making the rounds at screenwriting festivals around the country, as he and his producing team prepare to shoot the film in January 2024. Remnants of Nova tells the story of Dani and Nova on one chaotic day where career-smashing potential and a near-death experience collide. The film takes a deep look at mental health, queer love, and the pop music scene. It is co-written by Kimmie Devereux and produced alongside Richard Ormsby.

 

By day James works as a video editor. One of his latest projects as an editor - Bonded by Ball: Inside the OBL - a docu-series about a new one-on-one basketball league is streaming on Paramount+ and Showtime. 

 

Always on the move in Jersey City, James fills their time running a virtual screenwriting group, The Society of Independent Screenwriters (SIS). He and his SISters meet bi-monthly to discuss projects, give feedback, and talk filmmaking as a whole.

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Through a lifelong struggle with depression and suicidal ideation, James is a strong advocate for mental health awareness, especially for young people. In all of their projects, James looks for the most empathetic and honest view of the human experience, showcasing the everlasting dichotomy we each struggle with every day. "Filmmaking is the most powerful tool we have to connect, understand, and empathize with people, especially those who are most different from you." 

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Outside of working in the film industry, James is an avid photographer. He travels throughout the country photographing people and places. Working in photography, especially B&W analog photography, has given James a stronger appreciation for the visual arts in its incredible use for storytelling. You can find James shopping at the local farmer’s market with his partner Monica, rocking out to either progressive metal or impressionist classical,  snuggling with his cats Pineapple and Linguine.