A creative home for Harlem stories- film, theater, books, and original works.
Celebrating the people, culture, and history of Harlem.
The book that started it all.
A collection of Harlem stories that will make you laugh, cry and think. Honest.
Uncompromising. Real.
These stories inspired plays, films and the continuing work of Thea and Jim Productions.
Available in Store
If Harlem Could Talk It Would Scream.
"The book that started it all."
Available Now in Our Store.
Before the camera...there was the stage.
Before the screen...stories refused to stay
silent.
If Harlem Could Talk It Would Scream.
Pendemonium -a writer haunted by Temptation
A Message In Our Music.
Destiny Manifested.
REC
00:02:02
James Gillard
Writer - Director - Producer
Harlem-born storyteller creating films, plays,
and cinematic stories where memory, temptation
and truth collide.
IN CONVERSATION WITH JAMES GILLARD
Author, playwright, filmmaker and founder of Thea & Jim Productions, James Gillard discusses storytelling, Harlem, and the inspiration behind his creative work.
The story behind Thea & Jim
As a child I found comfort in books, film and television. Stories became a safe place for me - an escape before I ever understood they could become a purpose.
Years later, I became fascinated by the why behind people's choices and the emotions that shape them.
My sister was grounded, focused and responsible. She believed in me even during the uncertain moments of trying to build a life as a filmmaker and playwright. Through every setback and every victory, she remained my greatest supporter.
Our bond transcended time. After her passing, I dedicated my productions company to her memory - because she was a part of everything I created.
Thea & Jim Productions LLC was built
from memory, legacy, and storytelling rooted in Harlem.
Founded by award winning writer, director, and producer
James Gillard, the company creates films,
stage works and visual stories exploring
temptation, love, addiction, survival and
the emotional weight carried by everyday
people.
Harlem Noir Cinema
HARLEM NOIR
Harlem Noir
A cinematic journey through the shadows of Harlem, where every block hides a secret, memory, or a moment that changes everything.
Through love,temptation, survival and loss,
Harlem Noir explores the heartbeat of a neighborhood where every block has a story to tell.
Created by James Gillard
Official Festival Selections
The People's film festival 2026
The Hip Hop Film Festival 2026
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FEATURED WORKS
Manifest The Interview
A gripping psychological drama where ambition, trauma and truth collide under the pressure of one life -changing interview.
Starring: Carleton King, Naomi Taylor
Written and produced by James Gillard
Directed by Carleton King
Streaming on Tubi
Official Selections:
2023 Hip Hop Film Festival
2024 People's Film Festival
Currently streaming on Tubi
Support independent storytelling. "Click the link above to wear the story and support the journey."
A Letter For You
A soulful story about love, distance and the words we struggle to say before it's too late.
Starring: Skyler James Bailey,
Samantha Alethea Inniss
Directed by Carleton King
Written and produced by James Gillard
Official Selections
2025 Love Wins Festival
2025 The People's Film Festival
2025 Hip Hop Film Festival
Writer's Block
A writer battling addiction, temptation and unresolved pain travels back to Harlem. The place where it all began.
Starring Erik Mckay, Monique Warren
Benjamin Rowe
Written, directed and produced by
James Gillard
Official Selections:
2020 Hollywood South
2024 LA Underground Film Festival
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IF HARLEM COULD TALK IT WOULD SCREAM
Presented at the Schomburg Center, this original theatrical work explored Harlem's past and present through a series of powerful scenes, spoke word performances and musical moments inspired by the people and culture of Harlem.
On Stage
IF HARLEM COULD TALK IT WOULD SCREAM
(Stage play).
A theatrical journey through the voices of Harlem, blending drama, spoken word, and music to tell stories of love, struggle, hope and resilience of the Harlem experience.
HARLEM NOIR (LIVE READING)
Presented as a staged reading, Harlem Noir brought together actors, storytellers, and audiences for an evening of original work exploring life in Harlem. The project later evolved into the Harlem Noir micro-drama series, where every block has a story to tell.
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Youth Theater / Community Storytelling
"Using theater, literature and community engagement to empower young voices and inspire meaningful conversation."
Can Anybody Hear Me? Voices of Youth
(Book)
Written by James Gillard, this book uses storytelling and theater to amplify the voices of young people. It explores real life issues, hopes and experiences while encouraging self-expression, empathy and community engagement.
Visions Realized
A glimpse into our recent triumphs
Celebrate your special day with our unique birthday offerings that bring happiness and joy.
THE PEOPLE'S FILM FESTIVAL
Harlem Creative award -- Celebrating independent storytelling through film and theater.
STAY CONNECTED
Harlem Noir is currently on the film festival circuit and unavailable for public viewing at this time. Check back for screening announcements, festival news, upcoming events and future releases from Thea & Jim Productions.