Never Die Alone

Fast-moving urban drama

Director Ernest Dickerson, ASC, wanted a “very grainy” look for scenes set in contemporary times.

	Director Ernest Dickerson on the set of Never Die Alone

Never Die Alone is a fast-moving, urban drama produced at practical locations in Los Angeles on a 19-day shooting schedule. It is scheduled for spring release by Fox Searchlight Pictures in 35mm anamorphic (2.4:1 aspect ratio) format. The film stars DMX, David Arquette, Michael Ealy and Reagan Preston-Gomez.

Never Die Alone was directed by Ernest R. Dickerson, ASC, who began his career as a cinematographer, e.g. She’s Gotta Have It, Do the Right Thing and Mo’Better Blues. His directing credits include Juice, Bulletproof, Blind Faith and Our America. The cinematographer was Matthew Libatique, ASC, whose credits include Pi, Requiem for a Dream, Phone Booth and Gothika.

The story is about a man who dies while returning to his old hometown seeking forgiveness for past dark deeds. An audio taped journal and $250,000 are found in the trunk of his car. The journal provides voice-overs for many flashback scenes. Libatique suggested using two handheld cameras for coverage, and putting finishing touches on the look during a digital intermediate process.