I had the honor of interviewing Tameka “Hollywood” Robinson, an alumna of PVAMU, to introduce the world premiere of her first movie, On The Inside Looking Out, pg. 14.Currently studying at Howard University’s film school, Robinson attributes all of her success thus far to the education she received at PV, and thanks the radio, TV, and film department for believeing in her efforts to make this movie.
“I’m a small town girl with big time dreams,” is what Robinson says as she explains how the name “Hollywood” originated: “Hollywood means to have faith in God and speaking dreams into existence.” She thoroughly believes that education is the key to achieve anything in life; even simply having an intellectual conversation with another human being.
As Robinson speaks about her film she breathes passion into every word that she utters. Robinson’s mission in life is to educate “her people” through film by showing them the other side of the story that may not always be captured. “To be able to tell my people of issues that are not always talked about is to show them how much I love them.”
Through her movie, Robinson hopes that she will educate the uneducated mind about what happened in Jasper and to dispel the myths that have been placed on this small town. She hopes to open the minds of everyone who views her movie, but first she wants to give back to PV for all that she has received.
Robinson is the walking milestone of how black people who think outside the box can and will be accepted in society. She opens her mind to things that aren’t normally illustrated in everyday life to become a better educator through her filmmaking: “To think outside the box is to think outside of your neighborhood. How will a person’s mind gain better understanding if they continue to surround themselves with what they already know?”
Robinson closes this interview by stating, “Support and love are action words. If PV loves me then come see my movie. You will gain a new vision.