Clayton State University student stars in new Atlanta-based film

(September 11, 2024) - Clayton State’s growing impact as a popular on-site filming location and hub for determined young filmmakers has become apparent in the south metro Atlanta community over the past decade.

But now, there’s a chance it could soon become a growing home for aspiring Hollywood actors, as well.

Film Production freshman Antwar Walker is starring in Coke Daniels’ upcoming film, “The Waterboyz,” which centers around two Atlanta “water boys” who take different paths to navigate their livelihoods, their legacies, and their environment.

The film was shot entirely in Atlanta – Walker’s hometown.

“The film is about two friends, Drew and Dolo, and their larger group of friends who stand on the corner selling water,” Walker said. “It’s about these kids, but particularly these two friends, who have very different ideas and views on life, and the trajectory they should go on to make money.”

Walker also described the film as a “coming of age” story, noting that a series of intense consequences begin transpiring based on the kids’ decisions.

Appropriately, the film’s “coming of age” nature reflects on Walker’s dedication to his craft, as he’ll be heading out to Los Angeles, California, to celebrate the film’s Hollywood premiere – something he couldn’t have imagined being a part of when he began acting almost a decade ago.

“I really got into acting when I was 14-15,” Walker said. “I started training at the Alliance Theatre, but never really did anything beyond training and going to classes.”

Walker said he eventually found footing in his early acting days after graduating high school in 2019, appearing in numerous music videos for various rappers, singers, and artists before appearing in a series of short films and television programs.

But the 23-year-old says his hard work has finally paid off.

His appearance in “The Waterboyz” will be his first-ever leading role – a role that began with a simple message on social media.

“It actually started with writer and director Coke Daniels,” Walker said. “I had just seen a horror film he did called ‘Karen.’ I followed him on Instagram and said, ‘I really like your film.’ Months and months went by and then I saw he was casting for “The Waterboyz” at the end of 2021. I filmed a self-tape audition, submitted it, and he [eventually] DM’d me back, followed me on Instagram, and said, ‘I really like your audition.’”

After months and months of even more waiting, Walker finally received the role and joined Daniels and the cast for production in July 2022 – the rest is history.

Now, two years later with the film’s Hollywood premiere approaching, “The Waterboyz” has already won the “Best Director” Award at the American Black Film Festival.

Walker reflected on both making the film as well as his acting journey, saying it feels “surreal” to be where he currently is.

“People come out of the theater who watched the film and are, like, ‘can I get a picture?’” Walker laughed. “It’s nice, but kind of strange. It’s strange to go from people not knowing you to, ‘Oh! You’re such and such!’ and then taking a picture with you all of a sudden.”

Undoubtedly, life has been full of lights, cameras, and action for Walker.

But despite being busy with both his career and upcoming projects, he is also settling into his new life on campus at Clayton State University.

While Walker has admitted that it’s been challenging balancing his young career with classes and student life, he is grateful to be on campus and is enjoying being a Laker.

“When I was talking to people about the Film Program, [I was] very intrigued,” Walker said. “I’ve been enjoying the environment – it’s different. This is my first time actually being on a campus and seeing the different things it has going on. I’ve really enjoyed it.”

In addition to earning his degree, Walker said he hopes to begin producing and directing films of his own in the years to come. He’s also been speaking with his manager about auditioning for a more diverse range of roles in future projects, as well.

But in the meantime, Walker has fully embraced his latest role of being a student at Clayton State University.

He hopes that in the years to come, his studies at CSU will help his star shine brighter in the industry – both on and off-camera.

“I’m going to make it my business to make a name for myself in this industry,” Walker said. “I have a lot of big things and deals piling up, so keep a lookout for me!”