Xavier Smalls isn’t your typical filmmaker—he almost became an orthodontist! This Sacramento native took an unexpected turn from braces to big dreams after an acting class caught his attention. The adrenaline rush he felt wasn’t just from the thought of pulling teeth. Smalls dove headfirst into the world of acting, catching the eye of the legendary Tyler Perry along the way, proving that sometimes, the best experiences come from the sidelines.
After years of acting in other people’s projects, Smalls decided it was time to take the reins himself. Enter “Picture Perfect,” his directing debut that explores mental health and trauma through the lens of art. Talk about a powerful blend of creativity and personal growth! The film just premiered at the Oak Park Black Film Festival, a moment Smalls says holds special significance as it showcases his journey back to Sacramento—his artistic roots.
Xavier’s story is a great inspiration for anyone wrestling with their career choices. It begs the question: what would you do if you decided to follow your passions fully? In a world where the cookie-cutter path is expected, Smalls is chalking outside the lines, and honestly, it looks pretty colorful. Who’s up for creating their own opportunities next?
