RICHMOND, Calif. — Independent filmmaker Jayson Johnson is developing his debut feature film 'R.O.G.E.R. & Me', a quirky romantic comedy set in Richmond, California.
The story follows a young Black coding prodigy whose life takes an unexpected turn after he falls asleep at the wheel and crashes into a tropical fish store. As part of an unusual probation sentence, he must carry a live goldfish everywhere he goes for 30 days. What begins as an absurd punishment gradually becomes a journey about resilience, second chances and rediscovering connection within his community.
Johnson is the founder of Strike Five Films, an independent production company established in 2017. His short films have screened at more than 90 film festivals worldwide and received six awards, including Best Romantic Short at the 2021 Las Vegas Film Festival for 'T.H.O.T.'
He previously studied film at Eastern Illinois University and has received mentorship from filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola. Johnson has also worked in freelance production roles on projects connected to Netflix, Amazon and Hulu.
'R.O.G.E.R. & Me' is currently in pre-production, with early development underway. The project aims to blend absurd humor with heartfelt themes centered on community, growth and human connection in the Bay Area. A proof-of-concept trailer is available online, and more information can be found at Strike Five Films.
