"Danny and the Deep Blue Sea"
In 2024, I had the privilege of serving as Director of Photography for a scene directed by the late Mr. Dean Irby (1947-2026).
A titan of Black Theater, Mr. Irby’s legendary career spanned decades as a stage actor, director, and coach. While this project marked his first time directing for the screen, his mastery was unmistakable. Because the actors were his own students, his vision for their character arcs translated beautifully from the stage to the lens.
Working within a 'Black Box' setting, I had the immense pleasure of guiding Mr. Irby through the technical nuances of film—shot coverage, lighting design, blocking, and continuity. There is a unique joy in collaborating with a creative genius who is exploring a new medium; his curiosity was as inspiring as his expertise.
As a cinematographer, I am dedicated to practicing my art as a means of advancing Kosen-rufu—the Buddhist philosophy of creating world peace through the spread of humanistic values and artistic harmony. This mission is fueled by the practice of Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo, through which I strive to nurture new relationships and foster peace within the world of independent film.
Thank you Dean for always looking out... brah!"
— Chuck Gomez
SUNY BFA Acting Showcase Reels (2024):
Production: "Danny and the Deep Blue Sea"
Written by: John Patrick Shanley
Actors: Sanise Lebron & Daija North
Film Director: A. Dean Irby (1947–2026)
Cinematographer & Colorist: Chuck Gomez
Film Editor: Jeremy Joffee
Post Sound Supervisor: Brian Lindgren
Producer: Daniel Kang
Crew: SUNY Purchase College BFA Film & Theater
Technical Specifications: Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro / Contax Zeiss Primes / Aspect Ratio: 2.39:1 (Cinemascope) / Blackmagic RAW (BRAW) 12:1
