Local Screenwriter Ken Nelson Jr. Pens Detroit-Set ‘Sincerely, Brenda’

Ken Nelson Jr. never considered himself a screenwriter – that is, until he became inspired. Nelson focused on theater at Cass Tech and earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in digital media arts, both from Michigan State University. “I’ve always wanted to make a film in my hometown of Detroit and my second home in Lansing,” he says. “It’s important for people to see positive images of where they are from, especially when there are so many negative images and stories perpetuating unsavory stereotypes about Detroit.”

Bucking these stereotypes was a strong impetus behind penning Sincerely, Brenda. This – and a story that haunted him. His screenplay, in Nelson’s words, “takes place in Detroit and is about a father recovering from addiction having to face his two estranged sons after their mother dies suddenly.” The film starts production later this month. “Despite what may seem like a lack of resources,” Nelson adds, “we will tell our stories and continue to provide valuable opportunities and a platform for the local artists to tell their stories.”

To learn more about the film or support the project, visit sincerelybrenda.com.