Rex Depalma, an East Boston native joined B-Luke in this episode of ‘The Bounce Back Podcast’ to discuss how he turned a turbulent past into a promising future as a filmmaker. Raised in a neighborhood marked by organized crime, Rex’s early life was far from conventional. Dropping out of school and involved in drug dealing, his path seemed set. However, a pivotal moment came when his mother sent him to Los Angeles at 17, where acting opened new doors. Roles on shows like Everybody Hates Chris and CSI: New York offered hope, but frustration with the industry and legal troubles temporarily derailed his journey.
While on house arrest, a friend introduced Rex to filmmaking—a spark that ignited a deep passion. His first short film, God Don’t Love Ugly, marked the beginning of a new chapter. Now, Rex is focused on his latest project, Pressed, a hard-hitting film addressing the fentanyl crisis. Inspired by personal loss, the story follows two brothers producing fentanyl-laced pills, exploring the devastating moral and emotional consequences.
Rex is committed to showcasing Boston’s raw, unfiltered culture. For his upcoming feature film, set to begin filming in April, he emphasizes the importance of casting local talent. He values passion and life experience over formal acting backgrounds, encouraging aspiring actors from all walks of life to audition through his website. The film promises diverse roles, reflecting the city’s rich, multifaceted community.
Reflecting on his journey, Rex highlights the lack of resources and role models in Boston’s working-class environment, where creative careers often seem unattainable. He compares this mindset to Hollywood’s competitive landscape, stressing that success only comes after relentless effort. Determined to change this, Rex aims to establish programs to expose Boston’s youth to filmmaking.
Rex’s message is clear: passion and persistence are crucial. He advises aspiring creatives to focus on small, consistent steps rather than feeling overwhelmed by the distance between their current status and future goals. He also stresses the importance of independent filmmaking for maintaining creative control, cautioning against unreliable financial partnerships.
In “Pressed”, Rex is dedicated to portraying genuine experiences and struggles, ensuring the film resonates deeply with audiences. He envisions the project as more than entertainment—it’s a call to action against the fentanyl epidemic and a celebration of Boston’s resilience. As casting continues, Rex invites diverse talent to join him, promising an inclusive and authentic representation of the city’s culture.
