One False Move was an unforgettable experience and an important milestone in my entertainment career. After my introduction to professional filmmaking as a photo double on Boyz n the Hood, this was my first significant opportunity to step in front of the camera as an actor.

I had the pleasure of working with Billy Bob Thornton, Cynda Williams, and several other talented actors under the direction of Carl Franklin. The cast and crew were great to work with, and being part of that production was an incredible experience. Although Bill Paxton was also in the film, I didn't have the opportunity to work with him because his scenes were filmed in Arkansas.

What made One False Move special wasn't simply appearing in a feature film. It was the opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals, observe the filmmaking process firsthand, and experience what it takes to bring a story to life. That experience gave me a greater appreciation for the collaboration, creativity, and discipline involved in filmmaking.

Looking back, One False Move remains one of the most memorable experiences of my early entertainment career. It strengthened my passion for acting and filmmaking and helped set the foundation for a journey that would eventually take me into theater production, directing, and storytelling.

Pictured below: From my personal photo collection. Pictured with director Carl Franklin and actor Billy Bob Thornton during production.

One False Move (1992) and its associated movie posters, film stills, titles, and promotional materials are the property of their respective copyright owners. Materials displayed here are for informational and professional portfolio purposes only, documenting my participation in the production. No ownership of the film or its promotional materials is claimed or implied.

Behind the Scenes — One False Move (1992)
Personal behind-the-scenes photographs from my personal collection, taken with my camera during the production of One False Move. Pictured with me are director Carl Franklin and actor Billy Bob Thornton. Photo Collection © Derrick T. Williams. All Rights Reserved.

Working in film and theater production has given me the opportunity to experience storytelling from multiple perspectives—as an actor, director, filmmaker, and production professional. From backstage operations and live performances to directing and working behind the camera, each experience has shaped how I approach storytelling today.

After One False Move and Boyz n the Hood, my career moved quickly. I stepped into production and live theatre, eventually becoming a production stage manager for national touring plays. Over the next five years, I traveled to more than 70 cities every 6 months on some tours, working with seasoned actors, celebrities, and crews I had grown up watching.

It was high-pressure, high-stakes, fast-paced work — the kind of environment that demanded precision, responsibility, and constant problem-solving. I loved the craft, the people, and the process. But years on the road took a toll, and burnout eventually hit hard.
​I stepped away from entertainment, unsure of what the next chapter would be.

Returning to “regular life” after life on sets and on the road touring felt empty. The routine of work–school–repeat couldn’t compare to the momentum and intensity I’d lived for years.

That changed the day a Navy recruiter stopped me on my way to work.

I enlisted — a decision that would take me through three branches of the U.S. military and redefine my discipline, purpose, and direction. During my service, I became a combat veteran, deploying to both Iraq and Afghanistan. Those experiences reshaped my character, strengthened my resolve, and taught me a level of leadership and resilience that I carry with me in every project I touch.

The military didn’t replace entertainment.
​It refined the man I needed to become before returning to it.