Chumash filmmaker keeps knocking

George Angelo, Jr., The AuteurCompleted in 1978, Angelo’s first film was Indian alright—but not the kind you might assume. His short, Bambu Island, was shot in the West Indies about Rastafarian woodcarvers, complete with reggae soundtrack. But the opportunities were sparse, so during the 80s he tended bar, took acting classes and became a cameraman at a southern California television station. Along the way he’s snared a few acting roles in shows like Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman, ER, and more recently, The Shield and the Eddie Murphy film, Norbit. Angelo’s prowess behind the camera didn’t go unnoticed, however, as he earned a coveted Rockefeller Fellowship to study film and video.

Through it all, he’s continued to do what he started lo those many years ago. Make films. With more than a dozen to his credit, he has produced award winning documentaries including the three-part series, Whispers, about southern California Native tribes and other projects profiling age discrimination in Hollywood, a Death Valley marathon, and the legendary country music venue, the Palomino Club.

His newest production is a departure from his documentarian roots. Early next year Angelo will start filming Fallen Angels, a dramatic feature about a reincarnated Chumash spiritual leader and a Vietnam Vet rock musician starring himself, Nick Ramos and several of Indian Country’s top actors. It’s a go as he anxiously waits for the final funding to roll in.