Karrion Kross highlights empathy and human connection in Blue Evening, a short film that premiered at the Pasadena International Film Festival in April. The story follows Frank, portrayed by Kross (credited as Kevin Robert Kesar), as he offers support to a homeless addict, seeking to help him make positive changes in his life. Directed by Jett Jansen and produced by Cory DeMyers alongside Kross, the film brings a strong message about personal growth, challenge, and the profound effects of compassion.
The film’s creative team recently discussed their intentions during an interview with WrestleZone Managing Editor Bill Pritchard. Jett Jansen expressed a desire for audiences to understand that persistence has the power to change lives. Cory DeMyers, who has recently completed work on HBO’s The Righteous Gemstones, explained that Blue Evening deals with themes far broader than addiction, focusing on the human spirit and the struggle to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Karrion Kross Reflects on Empathy and His Journey
Kross shared how his own experiences inspired his portrayal of Frank, emphasizing the critical role of empathy and human interaction in the film’s message. In discussing his hopes for the audience, Kross stated,
“I would say, I just want anyone who maybe didn’t have a place of empathy for a person going through these types of struggles, I hope they find it. It’s a weird thing, more specifically in Western culture, that I have noticed the more and more I travel, where we dehumanize each other. And the older I get, that is really beginning to bother me,”
—Karrion Kross, Lead Actor and Executive Producer.
He reflected on his earlier years, admitting that career ambitions previously overshadowed other aspects of his life. As Kross explained,
Image of: Karrion Kross
“We’re trying to find a career path. And nothing else really mattered to me beyond that. But then finally, God-willing, you get where you want to be and you realize that’s not all life is about. And community is a really, really, really, really big thing to me now,”
—Karrion Kross, Lead Actor and Executive Producer.
Highlighting the film’s ultimate goal, Kross articulated,
“Just being human with each other. The human connection. I hope people find that if they are absent of it, when they watch this film. And I hope they are able to leave with it and keep it and for people who already have it, I hope that they appreciate the story we tried to tell.”
—Karrion Kross, Lead Actor and Executive Producer.
Anticipation Builds for Future Screenings and Discussions
Blue Evening debuted at the Pasadena International Film Festival and has generated meaningful conversations about its subject matter and the performances of those involved, including Karrion Kross, Jett Jansen, and Cory DeMyers. The trio has highlighted how important it is for films to reflect not just struggle, but also perseverance and the value of true connections between people. Further dates for future screenings are expected to be announced as the film continues to reach wider audiences.
By focusing on deeply personal stories and universal experiences, Blue Evening encourages viewers not only to examine their own perspectives, but also to foster understanding toward others who face life’s most difficult challenges. The impact of the film’s message is likely to be seen in ongoing discussions about empathy and the ways society recognizes and supports individuals in need.
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