Published Opinion & Preface-Memoirs | by Author Joey Cambra Editor-in-Chief JoeyCambra.Com 5.23.23

I would like to take a few minutes to speak candidly about Joey Cambra. Joey and I first met six years ago in the home of Vinny Paz. Vinny and I had been working on a film project together for several years prior. Because of my relationship with Vinny working on the Film Project; that was what afforded me the opportunity to meet and eventually become good friends with Joey.

Our meeting was set up weeks in advance and I had no knowledge of who Joey was or what might transpire at this meeting. Of course I was aware that Joey wanted to speak to me regarding a "Movie Idea." Well, the meeting proceeded and Joey's enthusiasm and overwhelming desire to tell this story was inspiring to me. As a Professional Screenwriter and Director of both of the Stage and Film, I have been "Pitched" story ideas "ad infinitum." What struck me as unique with Joey's "Story Idea" was his honesty and total commitment he exhibited when talking about it. Joey was adamant about every little nuance, every little element as insignificant as they might of seemed. He simply wanted to get it right.

This demeanor of Joey's clearly defines who he is, at least in my eyes.

So the meeting ends and I agree to write the screenplay on "Spec." And there began a relationship with Joey both on a personal level and a professional level. For three months Joey and I met numerous times as I researched this story from the places in Fall River where some of the story takes place to meeting with his family and friends. This continued for another month or so and then I was ready to write. During that time Joey and I would speak frequently on the telephone, e-mail one another and eventually the story began to take shape. Joey was always available and always upfront with me in terms of telling this story. He is a very responsible young man and still is to this day. I suppose that iswhat kept my energy up and my inspiration fresh.

What people in Joey's life, I don't think realize is that he is a very intelligent and well versed young man who tells it like it is. Good Story telling is essentially based on that quality. What I found fascinating was Joey's constant journey day after day to make sure that what I was writing was honest, truthful and of course entertaining.

I completed the screenplay about eight months later, Joey titled it; "Below The Hill." Now it was time for the re-write. That took another few months and soon we had the completed version. Now what to do? Well, that is always interesting because the next step is to raise the funds to make the film; which we are still currently doing. I also sent it to a few of my friends in the business and their response was very positive. In fact, a few of them have asked to work on the film when we are green- lit.

Joey and I have remained good friends over these six years and we both keep our fingers crossed that someday "Below The Hill" will be made. And this coming-of-age story of a young Portuguese boy, named Carmine, growing up not far from the Braga Bridge will be told and Joey's dream of sharing this story will become a reality.

Joey is newly married to a wonderful woman and he has a beautiful son. His life, like all of us has had its up and downs. I should know, being in this business has more downs than up but you keep pushing. You keep a positive outlook. Joey continues to do just that.

I appreciate this opportunity to speak about my friend and I hope that I have shed some light on his character.

Best Regards:

Eugene J. Celico

(401-426-0848)

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