Denver Graphic Novelist R. Alan Brooks Debuts Film ‘Always, Most of the Time’
Denver’s own graphic novelist, R. Alan Brooks, is making the leap to the big screen with his poignant short film, “Always, Most of the Time.” This project, born from personal heartbreak and a rekindled childhood friendship, tells a unique story of healing through a time-traveling protagonist. Local audiences will have a chance to experience its Denver premiere and meet the creators soon.
From Personal Pain to Poetic Script
The genesis of “Always, Most of the Time” traces back to R. Alan Brooks’s own heartbreak in late 2017. A former rapper, Brooks initially sought to channel his pain into art but wanted to avoid villainizing his ex-partner. It wasn’t until his transition to graphic novels that he tackled the story, crafting a script about a romance gone wrong. Though the initial artist ghosted the project, the act of writing proved personally therapeutic, allowing Brooks to heal from the trauma.
A Partnership Forged in Friendship
The film’s journey truly began when Brooks reconnected with his childhood friend, Victor V. Hogan II. Growing up together in Atlanta, the two formed a strong bond, later working side-by-side as producers for a rapidly expanding church. Despite the job’s challenges, their friendship deepened. Hogan, with 32 years in the industry and a decade in scripted film, honed his craft as an editor, gaining an intimate understanding of filmmaking from every angle.
Following a period of Hollywood strikes, Hogan found himself with an unusual lull in work. Brooks suggested they collaborate on a personal project, recognizing Hogan’s talent for elevating existing material. This conversation sparked the idea that Brooks’s forgotten graphic novel script might find new life as a film.
The Script’s Transformation into Film
Brooks sent his graphic novel script to Hogan, initially with “no pressure,” just a thought that it might make a short film. Hogan was immediately struck by Brooks’s brilliant approach: telling the story from the ex-partner’s point of view, making it a journey about her rather than an indictment. “It was beautifully written,” Hogan recalls, “taking us through a journey with this character. It wasn’t about him — it was about her. And that was perfect.”
Hogan asked Brooks if he could adapt it into a screenplay, and Brooks delivered by the next day. The project’s origins as a graphic novel proved beneficial, allowing Hogan to “see all the shots” easily, confirming his vision for a “beautiful, beautiful film.”
About “Always, Most of the Time”
The film centers on Delilah, who, after a painful breakup, discovers an extraordinary ability: time travel. She then embarks on a journey to revisit and rectify her past misdeeds, hoping to mend the broken relationship. The film is currently enjoying acclaim on the festival circuit worldwide.
Don’t Miss the Denver Premiere!
Be among the first in Denver to see this compelling short film. “Always, Most of the Time” will debut at Lighthouse Writers Workshop’s Beacon Hall.
The event will feature the film screening, followed by a special Q&A session with writer R. Alan Brooks and director Victor V. Hogan II, moderated by State Legislator Leslie Herod. This is a unique opportunity to delve into the creative process and hear directly from the artists.
| Stage | Key Focus |
|---|---|
| **Initial Concept (2017)** | Graphic novel script for personal healing |
| **Collaboration (Recent)** | R. Alan Brooks (writer) teams with Victor V. Hogan II (director) |
| **Film Production** | Script adapted to screenplay, filmed as a short |
| **Future Plans** | Comics adaptation of the film to re-establish surreal elements |
What’s Next for the Story?
Interestingly, Brooks is now working on a comic adaptation of the film, bringing the story full circle. He plans to re-establish elements that were left out of the film script, embracing the unique surreal qualities possible in comics. “So it’ll be its own thing,” Brooks notes, “but of course I’ll acknowledge that it’s also a film because that’s fucking cool.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where and when is the Denver premiere of “Always, Most of the Time”?
The film premieres at Lighthouse Writers Workshop’s Beacon Hall, located at 3844 York Street, at 7 p.m. on Friday, November 14. - Will R. Alan Brooks and Victor V. Hogan II be at the premiere?
Yes, both the writer and director will be present for a Q&A session directly after the screening, moderated by State Legislator Leslie Herod. - Is there an admission fee for the event?
The event is free to attend, but seats are limited, and an RSVP is requested to secure your spot. - What is the film “Always, Most of the Time” about?
The short film tells the story of Delilah, who discovers she can time-travel after a painful breakup and tries to fix her past mistakes that contributed to the relationship’s end. - What other works has R. Alan Brooks created?
Brooks is a well-known Denver graphic novelist, previously recognized for works like “The Burning Metronome.”
Don’t miss this opportunity to support local talent and engage with a compelling new film that explores healing and second chances. Be sure to RSVP and mark your calendar for November 14th!
R Alan Brooks debuts film Always Most of the Time
