Asar S. Saint Lamont
- Jun 18, 2023
- 10 min read
Updated: Dec 2, 2024
Director ● Writer ● Producer ● Assistant Director • Creative Director • Executive Assistant
Veteran | Academy Gold | HRTS | Alpha
MFA, Film & Television Production - The University of Southern California, School of Cinematic Arts (2024)
BS, Business Management - The Pennsylvania State University, Smeal College of Business (2012)
AA, Chinese Mandarin - Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center (2016)
Asar S. Saint Lamont has become accustomed to saying “Syracuse made me; D.C. raised me” when asked where he is from. His grandparents ushered in 12 children which resulted in a lot of cousins for him to imagine with. In his home, these experiences were shared with his mom and youngest brother. In adolescence, Asar created short stories on construction paper, craft imaginary school lessons using his siblings as students, and fabricated plays for his cousins to perform for family.
DeMatha Catholic High School introduced him to sheet music and the clarinet, flute, and piccolo became his tools of expression. As he pursued his Bachelor of Science in Business Management, minoring in Labor Studies & Employment Relations, at The Pennsylvania State University Smeal School of Business, his natural draw to creativity manifested an inaugural awards show that was named after him, an array of websites, and a few promotional videos for The Mighty Gamma Nu Chapter of his fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.
All of these endeavors culminated in an epiphany while he was serving as a Chinese Linguist and Intelligence Analyst (Top Secret/SCI Clearance) and in the United States Navy that pushed him into pursuing film. Through the hardships that tested him during this time came the resolution to follow passion and purpose.
He holds a Master of Fine Arts in Film & Television Production from The University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts. During his time, he was able to develop and sharpen skills in the disciplines of writing, directing, producing, cinematography, editing, and sound. This has led to various opportunities within the entertainment space such as the following: Creative Director and Assistant for Scorey, a Recording Artist signed to Columbia Records and Polo G's Capalot Records; Writers Assistant for Village Roadshow Entertainment Group; Development Intern and Audio Intern at Monkeypaw Productions; Press Guide and Production Assistant for The 96th Academy Awards; Talent Guide and Production Assistant for the 2024 TCM Classic Film Festival.
Asar is an Alumni Member of Academy Gold, having participated in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' talent development program, Academy Gold Rising, in 2023. He is also an Academic Member of the Hollywood Radio & Television Society.
In addition to the creative, he has a background in Executive and Administrative Assistance with experience in various industries to include government, legal, medical, and startups.
The stories that most fascinate him as a Filmmaker dive into the nuance of humanity, the choices we make, and the impact of those choices on the world around us. While his voice leans heavily into drama he has a desire to explore thriller, horror, thriller fantasy, and science fiction. His desire to impact the film industry is to lift as he climbs by utilizing his own experiences, knowledge, and resources to provide opportunities where possible.
Asar credits Ryan Coogler and Ava DuVernay for making the path to filmmaking feel tangible, Jordan Peele for his interest in telling genre bending stories, Christopher Nolan for his desire in making complex, visual spectacles, and Shonda Rhimes for challenging his writing of memorable characters and dialogue.
Credits
For official credits on the Internet Movie Database.
FEATURE FILMS
Additional projects not featured on home page or IMDb.
Position: Background Actor, Production Assistant
Directed by Sharaé Nikai & David Lassiter
STUDENT SHORT FILMS
Additional projects not featured on home page or IMDb.
Truckstop (2023)
Position: 2nd Assistant Director
Developed and shot by M.F.A Students at The University of Southern California, School of Cinematic Arts in Los Angeles, CA.
Closing Time (2021)
Position: Producer, Sound Recordist, Editor
Developed and shot by M.F.A Students at The University of Southern California, School of Cinematic Arts in Los Angeles, CA.
Stars Of The Show (2021)
Position: Cinematographer, Production Designer, Colorist
Developed and shot by M.F.A Students at The University of Southern California, School of Cinematic Arts in Los Angeles, CA.
Losing Williams (2018)
Position: 2nd Assistant Camera, Production Assistant
Developed and shot by B.F.A Students of The University of Hawaii in Honolulu, HI.
Tester (2018)
Position: 2nd Assistant Camera, Production Assistant
Developed and shot by B.F.A Students of The University of Hawaii in Honolulu, HI.
Meraki (2018)
Position: Production Assistant
Developed and shot by B.F.A Students of The University of Hawaii in Honolulu, HI.
VIDEOGRAPHY
Additional projects not featured on home page.
Miss Black & Gold Scholarship Pageant and Ball Promotion Trailer (2012)
Position: Producer and Editor.
A video used to encourage support for an upcoming pageant highlighting and rewarding the academic successes, ideas, achievements, and talents of female students, the Pennsylvania State University in State College, Pennsylvania.
Résumé
EMPLOYMENT
Production Assistant | Concordia Studio
Los Angeles, California / August 2024
Contributed to the production of an untitled documentary via direct assistance to Co-Directors, Producer, Line Producer, and Production Supervisor to include transportation services, running errands, cross-department support, and on-set assistance.
Talent Guide | Turner Classic Movies Film Festival
Los Angeles, California | April 2024 - April 2024
Served as Red Carpet Talent Guide for the TCM Host, Ben Mankiewicz.
Press Guide / Production Assistant | The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
Los Angeles, California | March 2024 - March 2024
Served in various support roles during the 96th Academy Awards to perform duties such as escorting press, assisting press conferences, VIP guests, Academy executives, and Governor’s Ball press preview, as well as providing support for logistics and operations.
Audio Intern | Monkeypaw Productions
Los Angeles, California | October 2023 - December 2023
Assisted Audio Team Executives in the execution of research, the preparation of interview related documents and materials, the coordination hospitality services, and the performance of live transcription for 15 celebrity guest podcast recordings.
Development Intern | Monkeypaw Productions
Los Angeles, California | June 2023 - September 2023
Assisted Development Executives in the script coverage of 4 short stories, 2 feature scripts, and 1 article as well as conducting research and participating in meetings in support of 2 projects while developing a TV series pitch based on intellectual property. Performed assistant duties as needed.
Writers Room Assistant | Village Roadshow Entertainment Group USA Inc.
Los Angeles, California | November 2022 - March 2023
Scheduled and performed live transcription for weekly meetings, organized script and research related databases, as well as facilitated the weekly writing assignments for 6 feature film writers during the development process.
Creative Director / Assistant | Scorey Ayye
Los Angeles, California | April 2021 - October 2022
Coordinated with Columbia Records Executives on behalf of Scorey Ayye, a Recording Artist under the management of Capalot Records, to provide creative input and decision making for the selection of key crew as well as the planning, filming, and editing of 4 music videos. Performed Assistant duties such as travel arrangements, managing calendar, scheduling appointments, and handling email and phone calls.
Chinese Linguist and Intelligence Analyst, TS/SCI Clearance | United States Navy
Honolulu, Hawaii | December 2014 - February 2020
Utilized Chinese Mandarin to provide safety oversight for deployed U.S. service members, assets, and allies; developed time-sensitive reports on military operations to be distributed to mission supervisors and command managers.
Operations Manager / Executive Assistant | Transcription, Etc.
Washington, District of Columbia | January 2010 - December 2014
Managed online client/vendor portal and workload, resolving technical issues as necessary; updated/maintained project management database, reporting to management when necessary; developed/implemented streamline processes that affect daily operations; held responsibility for Human Resources, IT and operations department support staff. Performed Executive Assistant duties such as travel arrangements, managing calendar, scheduling appointments, and handling email and phone calls.
Front Office Assistant | The Retina Group of Washington
Chevy Chase, Maryland | May 2010 - August 2010
Communicated with clients and staff in order to fulfill appointments and medical requests; updated Electronic Medical Records (EMR) database, scanned patient’s records and reports; assisted with various front office duties when necessary.
Resident Assistant | The Pennsylvania State University
State College, Pennsylvania | August 2008 - May 2009
Developed/implemented educational programs and initiatives for 215 residential students; enforced safety and health policies, and ensured compliance among residents; advised residents on academic, social, health, and overall cooperation and development.
Administrative Assistant | U.S. Department of Justice - Office of Justice Programs
Washington, District of Columbia | May 2008 - August 2008
Developed/implemented/participated in interactive programs for company employees; managed online database, updating outdated files and inputting new client files; performed administrative duties including communication with clients and employees.
Records Technician | Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman
Washington, District of Columbia | May 2006 - August 2006
Performed information research for attorneys and human resource staff; managed electronic database of firm’s client files and staff information; performed administrative and customer service duties.
EDUCATION
Master of Fine Arts, Film & Television Production
University of Southern California, School of Cinematic Arts
Los Angeles, California
January 2021 - December 2023
Associate of Arts, Chinese Mandarin
Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center
Monterey, California
February 2015 - July 2016
Bachelor of Science, Business Management
Minor: Labor Studies & Employment Relations
The Pennsylvania State University, Smeal College of Business
State College, Pennsylvania
August 2007 - May 2012
SKILLS
Apple (OS, Programs, Hardware)
A.I. (Midjourney, ChatGPT)
Database Management (Airtable, Microsoft Excel)
Directing/Writing/Producing/1st AD (Narrative, Music Videos, Documentary, Interviews)
Event Management
Executive/Administrative Assistance
Film Permits (FilmLA)
Google (Programs, Hardware)
Graphic Design (Adobe Photoshop, Adobe After Effects, Canva)
Languages: English, Chinese Mandarin
Personal Assistance
Photography
Photo Editing (Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom)
Microsoft Office Suites (Word, Powerpoint, Excel)
Script Coverage
Social Media (Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Facebook)
Sound Editing (Pro Tools)
Transcription/Notetaking
Videography
Video Editing (Premiere Pro, Avid Media Composer, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve)
VIP Management
Website Design (Wix)
AWARDS
George Lucas Scholar | Spring 2021 to Fall 2023 (3 Year Renewal)
The “George Lucas Family Foundation Endowed Student Support Fund for Production” is one of the most prestigious scholarships bestowed by the USC School of Cinematic Arts awarded to students from underrepresented communities who qualify for financial support based on strength of application.
- Presented by The University of Southern California, School of Cinematic Arts
Caucus Foundation Student Production Grant Recipient | Fall 2023
To assist worthy students in completing their student thesis film, TV program, video or interactive projects. This program is intended to combat the lack of diversity in content and creative people in the film and television industry.
- Presented by The Caucus Foundation
Ahmanson Scholarship Recipient | Fall 2021
Funded by the Ahmanson Foundation, the Ahmanson Scholarship recognizes student veterans who have shown outstanding academic achievement throughout their academic careers.
- Presented by The University of Southern California, School of Cinematic Arts
Good Conduct Medal Achievement | 2017
Recognizes the "all around" good Navy enlisted person, well qualified in all phases of conduct and performance.
- Presented by The United States Department of the Navy
Early Promote Marking | 2017
"Early Promote" is a marking given to Sailors on yearly evaluations who demonstrate 4.0 caliber success in their jobs and contributions to the Navy. These markings are limited and given to only a select group of Sailors in each command for the year signifying that they are performing at the next pay grade and are being recommended to be promoted sooner than expected.
- Presented by The United States Department of the Navy
Alumni Brother of the Year (Highest Alumni Distinction) | 2013
Recognizes outstanding contributions of an Alumni Brother of the Gamma Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.
- Presented by The Gamma Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated
All Principles Award (Highest Distinction) | 2012
Recognizes outstanding performance in Academics, Community Service, Cultural Awareness, Social Interaction, and Morals & Ethics.
- Presented by The Phi Alpha Chapter of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Incorporated
W.E.B. DuBois Founders Award (Highest Distinction) | 2010
Recognizes leadership initiatives, social influences, and academic success within the The Pennsylvania State University community.
- Presented by The Black Student Union at The Pennsylvania State University
Walker Leadership Scholarship (High Distinction) | 2008
Awards an academic scholarship for leadership initiatives at the Greater Allegheny Campus of The Pennsylvania State University.
- Presented by The Pennsylvania State University, Greater Allegheny Campus
MEMBERSHIP
Academy Gold
A global talent development and inclusion initiative of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences that provides creative individuals of diverse backgrounds access and resources to achieve their career pathways in filmmaking.
Class of 2023
Alumni Member
Hollywood Radio & Television Society
The premier networking, education and mentorship association in the industry. Our membership community includes 60+ Corporate Members and 2100+ individual members, representing the top companies across the landscape.
November 2022
Academic Member
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, The Mighty Gamma Nu Chapter
The oldest intercollegiate historically African American fraternity.
Initiated Fall 2011
Life Member
The Society for Agricultural Education Parliamentarians (SAEP)
May 2012
Member
Other Creative Ventures
WEB DESIGN
x Saint Lamont (April 2019)
The official web-based portfolio for the artist A. S. Saint Lamont. (Published)
Yokyni Yoga (May 2018)
A website utilized by a yoga instructor to promote lifestyle practices as well as to offer services in relation to yoga.(Published)
410 BlindEye (April 2018)
A website utilized by a photographer and videographer to promote creative content and attract clients. (Unpublished)
The Mighty Gamma Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (March 2018)
An extensive, revamped website to be utilized by this organization to connect with its constituents, promote events and news, as well as provide resources to connect students to various entities of the university. (Published)
The Get Crowned (October 2016)
A website utilized by members of the IFC/Panhellenic Council Homecoming Court at Penn State to promote their candidacy for Homecoming King & Queen. (Published)
What A Time To Be Crowned (October 2015)
A website utilized by members of the IFC/Panhellenic Council Homecoming Court at Penn State to promote their candidacy for Homecoming King & Queen. (Published)
Alpha’s Very Own Sound Radio (May 2015)
A website utilized by the members of the Gamma Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated to promote community engagement events. (Published)
The National Pan-Hellenic Council at Penn State (November 2012)
An extensive website to be utilized by the organization to promote its membership and events. (Published)
The Mighty Gamma Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (December 2011)
An extensive website to be utilized by this organization to connect with its constituents and to promote events and news. (Published)
EVENTS
Council of Commonwealth Student Government’s Diversity Summit (March 2010)
Position: Executive Director.
A series of roundtable discussions, cultural performances and displays, and guest speakers utilized by every student government leader in the Pennsylvania State University’s commonwealth campus system to build strategies for promoting diversity at the university, held at the Pennsylvania State University, State College, Pennsylvania.
The Sannies (April 2009)
Position: Founder & Executive Director.
An inaugural award show honoring students and faculty members who show leadership in their academic fields, athletic programs, and organizations. Received the “Founder’s Award” presented by the Student Government Association, at the Pennsylvania State University, McKeesport, Pennsylvania.
CONTRIBUTIONS
Michael B. Jordan’s Vacation Recap Video (April 2019)
Position: Videographer
Drone footage for a vacation recap video shot for actor/producer Michael B. Jordan by request of content creator Léonardo Volcy for Instagram, Honolulu, Hawaii.