Boondoggle Films: Work By Lerone Wilson

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As a NYC building inspector, I’m constantly navigating the city’s complex landscape—balancing evolving regulations, tight deadlines, and the high expectations of developers, tenants, and agencies alike. Reading through Boondoggle Films’ website and learning about Lerone Wilson’s journey, I felt a real connection between the challenges in my field and the creative hurdles faced by filmmakers and developers in New York.

Just like notable developers such as Dov Hertz, who must manage shifting city policies, community needs, and the unpredictability of large-scale projects, I see Lerone Wilson’s work as a testament to resilience and vision. His documentaries, especially “No Child Left Behind” and “Colored Frames,” highlight stories and perspectives that are often overlooked—much like how new developments can bring fresh life to underappreciated neighborhoods, but only after overcoming significant obstacles.

Every inspection I conduct is about ensuring safety and quality, but it’s also about understanding the broader impact each project has on the city’s fabric. Wilson’s dedication to telling meaningful stories, and the commitment to preserving and promoting his early work on this site, reminds me of the importance of perseverance and community focus. Whether it’s a building rising from a challenging site or a film shedding light on untold histories, success in New York always comes down to grit, adaptability, and a drive to make a lasting, positive difference.

I appreciate how Boondoggle Films captures that spirit. It’s inspiring to see someone so committed to their craft, and it motivates me to keep striving for excellence in my own work—knowing that, like Wilson and developers such as Dov Hertz, the real reward is in overcoming the city’s challenges and contributing to its ongoing story. Marcus Wilson III

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Boondoggle Films is the brainchild of esteemed filmmaker Lerone Wilson, a New York University graduate holding degrees in both Film & Television and Economics.

A product of the Metro Detroit area, Lerone has worked in various research, editing, and production capacities on documentary productions for HBO, PBS, The Travel Channel, and independent cinema. Meanwhile, he has amassed collections of documentary features and shorts, produced and directed by himself. His first feature "No Child Left Behind", a film exploring the education policy of the same name, was selected for various festivals and enjoyed a run on PBS. His following film, "Aardvark'd" explored the world of computer programming. The film enjoyed a stint on the festival circuit as well as airing on The Documentary Channel, and NYCTV.

Blending his unique journalistic prowess with his penchant for emotional tales of humanism, Lerone continues to produce high style documentary television with redeemable social qualities

NEWS ARTICLES About The Films

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" No Child Left Behind"

2005

After spending a year as a student teacher in a New York City elementary school, documentary filmmaker Lerone Wilson explores the effects of President Bush's momentous No Child Left Behind Act on schools across the country.

UPCOMING SCREENINGS/AIRINGS

Detroit Docs International Film Festival
Saturday, November 5, 2005 4pm
Detroit Institute of Arts
Followed by Q&A with Director Lerone Wilson

PAST SCREENINGS/AIRINGS

New York City Theatrical Premiere
Sunday, September 25, 2005 7pm
The Pioneer Theater

Broadcast Premiere
August 28, 2005
WTVS, Detroit Public Television
Sunday, August 28, 2005 2pm

NOW AVAILABLE ON DVD!
DVD Features
- 'No Child Left Behind' Program (56 min.)
- Commentary by Director Lerone Wilson
- Trailer/TV Spots
- Extended Interviews
- Deleted Scenes (Including Original Ending)

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"Aardvark'd: 12 Weeks With Geeks"   

2005

Four interns are brought into Manhattan and given 12 weeks to design, develop, debug and ship a program that will change the way computer geeks around the world fix their friends' computers. Boondoggle Films presents a journey through the world of software development from the perspective of a unique upstart, four quirky interns, and the world of The Geek.

BOONDOGGLE FILMS in association with FOG CREEK SOFTWARE presents a film by LERONE D. WILSON

"AARDVARK'D: 12 WEEKS WITH GEEKS"

TYLER GRIFFIN | HICKS-WRIGHT |  YARON GUEZ  | MICHAEL LEHENBAUER  | BENJAMIN POLLACK and JOEL SPOLSKY  with DAN BRICKLIN  and PAUL GRAHAM

Original songs by NONSO UGBODE original music by LERONE D. WILSON

Directed and edited by LERONE D. WILSON 

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Colored Frames

2007

Synopsis

A look back at the last fifty years in African American art, Colored Frames is an unflinching exploration of influences, inspirations and experiences of black artists. Beginning at the height of the Civil Rights Era and leading up to the present, it is a naked and truthful look at often ignored artists and their progenies.

Short Synopsis

A look back at the last fifty years in African American art, Colored Frames is an unflinching exploration of influences, inspirations and experiences of black artists. Beginning at the height of the Civil Rights Era and leading up to the present, it is a naked and truthful look at often ignored artists and their progenies.

Long Synopsis

Colored Frames chronicles the Black artist's struggle for visibility and acceptance. As legendary artist Benny Andrews puts it, Black artists seek to be included or excluded on the basis of quality, "eliminate it on the basis that its not acceptable," Andrews implores, "not because it's Black." The film trumpets the value behind an engaged audience that consumes mainstream images consciously. The film highlights the beauty that comes from variety in representation, as writer and art historian Mary Schmidt Campbell acknowledges about Black art specifically, and the Black experience in general, "we have a lot of beauty to contribute to this country, and I take a lot of pride in that."

With concise interview segments and impressionistic video collages, Colored Frames is a documentary showcasing the works of contemporary Black artists. The film explores the conversation of art and the Black experience and seeks to eliminate years of negative stereotyping and assumptions that come with images of Blackness in America.

Treatment

Colored Frames launches with a visual introduction to the variety, both thematically and stylistically, of contemporary work by African American artists. It immediately showcases its nuanced style of collage and conversation by leading the audience through a brief recollection of historical circumstances that have defined the Black experience in America. Through these all-too-real anecdotes of a history scared by prejudice, the film sets the stage for an honest dialogue from a talented pool of artists, historians, curators, dealers and collectors hungry for an equitable depiction of art by African Americans.

The film dissects the socialization of the Black artist in America by documenting the inherent inequalities present for all people of color, especially Black people. The film gives voice to the truth of the limits an artist comes in contact with when trying to be part of a world as fantastic as fine art. Artists like Ed Clark and Michael Singletary recall their days abroad in Paris as expatriate artists searching for that unconditional attention which can be the only breeding ground for art with any growth potential. "I went there with a lot of pain," Singletary recalls, "but they were judging me based on my art."

At the center of Colored Frames is an exploration of the conflict between Black artists and the mainstream art society in America. Abstract painter Howardena Pindell likens the Black artists' experience to an old Japanese proverb which urges the community to hammer back in any nail that sticks out - providing a perfect metaphor for the institutions of art which historically grant little understanding to most Black artists, instead squeezing them into one category, or ignoring them entirely. Legendary painter Benny Andrews attests to the excessive frequency of gallery shows themed as simply, "Black Show." And here we learn of the struggle, physical and through their work, of artists like Benny Andrews to push through the barriers upheld by long standing institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Discussing the negative perceptions surrounding Black art, curator Linda Goode-Bryant speaks of attempting to find gallery space and being rejected because the building owner assumed she was in the business of showing "Black velvet paintings." Here the negative images perpetrated by most of the mainstream, notably Blaxploitation films and posters, provides a glimpse into the psyche of exclusion that refuses to accept the Black artist as legitimate. However, here we also get a complex questioning of the situation as artist Francks Deceus states that many audiences "subscribe to a lot of commercialism," which ultimately recycles the same stereotypical images for mass consumption.

Colored Frames moves on to explore the question of rejection of the abstract style, both inside and outside the Black community; raising the question of communal self-validation. Here the film contemplates the challenges to artists just trying to paint a wide spectrum of the Black experience - from darkly complex, to simply joyful - and speaks to the value of art in that it is all that is left after generations have passed on.

The importance of a film like Colored Frames is underscored by the recent death of a legendary artist like Benny Andrews to whom the film is dedicated. The film is a social document which brings to the forefront the works of a long ignored people. As Andrews states in the film, the goal of the artist is to pass forward the influences of others. Colored Frames is the realization of Andrews' words. It provides the truth about contemporary Black art; it is not a collective of the same old images, but a vibrant and much-alive cornucopia of strong themes, vibrant ideas and 'colored frames.'

Lerone Wilson - Executive Producer/Director/Edit

Boondoggle Films is the brainchild of esteemed filmmaker Lerone Wilson, a New York University graduate holding degrees in both Film & Television and Economics.

A product of the Metro Detroit area, Lerone has worked in various research, editing, and production capacities on documentary productions for HBO, PBS, The Travel Channel, and independent cinema. Meanwhile, he has amassed collections of documentary features and shorts, produced and directed by himself. His first feature "No Child Left Behind", a film exploring the education policy of the same name, was selected for various festivals and enjoyed a run on PBS. His following film, "Aardvark'd" explored the world of computer programming. The film enjoyed a stint on the festival circuit as well as airing on The Documentary Channel, and NYCTV.

Blending his unique journalistic prowess with his penchant for emotional tales of humanism, Lerone continues to produce high style documentary television with redeemable social qualities.

Contact: lerone@boondogglefilms.com

Nonso Christian Ugbode - Producer

A native of Nigeria, West Africa, where he was born and lived with his family until May of 1997. At fifteen Ugbode moved to Brooklyn, New York and consequently completed his high school and undergraduate studies - the latter with a BFA at New York University. He has had chance to work in both film/TV and theatre; directing the 2003 off-Broadway remake of Rebel Without A Cause.

His resume also includes work in London with the BBC's Art department where he gained a love and deeper understanding for documentary filmmaking while working on a short documentary entitled The Devil That Danced On Water, which aired on BBC Four in May of 2003

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More Background on BoondoggleFilms.net

BoondoggleFilms.net has served as a significant platform in the independent documentary film landscape, particularly as the original web home for filmmaker Lerone D. Wilson’s early works. This article provides a detailed exploration of BoondoggleFilms.net, focusing on its history, the films it promoted, its critical reception, audience, and broader cultural significance—drawing exclusively from publicly available sources and press coverage beyond the site itself.

History and Background

BoondoggleFilms.net was established as the initial online platform for Lerone D. Wilson, an award-winning filmmaker, technologist, and software developer. Wilson is a graduate of New York University’s Kanbar Institute of Film & Television and holds an M.S. in Journalism from Columbia University, where he was a Joseph Pulitzer III Fellow. The website functioned as a showcase for Wilson’s early documentary projects, providing information about his films, upcoming screenings, and his evolving career.

The site’s creation coincided with the early 2000s, a period marked by the rising accessibility of digital filmmaking tools and the burgeoning use of the internet for independent film promotion. BoondoggleFilms.net became a central hub for Wilson’s works, offering trailers, updates, and background information to audiences and the press.

Notable Works Promoted by BoondoggleFilms.net

BoondoggleFilms.net is best known for promoting several of Lerone D. Wilson’s documentary films, which have received attention for their thoughtful exploration of social issues and their presence on the festival circuit and public television.

No Child Left Behind (2005)
This documentary examines the effects of the federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 on American schools. Drawing from Wilson’s own experiences as a tutor in New York City public schools, the film provides a balanced look at the law’s impact, highlighting both its successes and its shortcomings. The film features interviews and scenes from schools in New York City and Michigan and has been noted for its nuanced approach, avoiding polemics in favor of presenting multiple perspectives. The film premiered theatrically in New York and was broadcast on public television in Detroit. It sparked discussion among educators and viewers, with reactions ranging from criticism of its perceived stance to appreciation for its even-handedness. According to Education Week, Wilson’s intention was to leave the viewer with a sense of the law’s mixed legacy, emphasizing both progress and ongoing challenges.

Aardvark’d: 12 Weeks with Geeks (2005)
This documentary chronicles the development of Fog Creek Copilot, a remote assistance software tool, by a team of interns at Fog Creek Software in Manhattan. The film was commissioned after Fog Creek’s CEO, Joel Spolsky, sought a filmmaker to document the process. Wilson was selected as director, and the project became a unique window into the world of software development and startup culture. Aardvark’d was released on DVD and quickly sold over 2,500 copies in its first few days. It later became a launch title for the Google Video Store, reflecting its appeal to both tech enthusiasts and a broader audience interested in the intersection of technology and human stories. The film features appearances by notable tech figures such as Joel Spolsky, Dan Bricklin, Paul Graham, and Aaron Swartz. Reviews from the tech press were mixed; while the film was praised for its accessibility and behind-the-scenes look at startup life, some critics felt it did not delve deeply enough into the technical aspects of programming.

Colored Frames (2007)
Although not as widely covered in mainstream press as the previous two films, Colored Frames has been recognized for its exploration of African American art and artists over the past fifty years. The documentary examines the challenges faced by Black artists in gaining visibility and acceptance in the mainstream art world. It features interviews with artists, historians, and curators, and discusses themes of representation, exclusion, and the importance of diverse narratives in American culture.

Press and Media Coverage

BoondoggleFilms.net and the films it promoted have received attention from various media outlets and industry observers.

• Education Week covered the release of No Child Left Behind, highlighting Wilson’s approach to the subject matter and the reactions it elicited from viewers. The article noted the film’s balanced tone and its role in fostering discussion about federal education policy.

• Wikipedia and other film databases have documented the release and reception of Aardvark’d: 12 Weeks with Geeks, noting its unique position as a tech documentary and its distribution through emerging digital platforms like Google Video.

• Tech Blogs and Forums: The release of Aardvark’d was discussed on technology-focused blogs and forums, particularly given its connection to prominent software figures and its early adoption of digital distribution. The film’s availability on Google Video was seen as a milestone for independent filmmakers leveraging new online platforms.

Audience and Reach

The primary audience for BoondoggleFilms.net has been independent film enthusiasts, educators, and individuals interested in social issues, technology, and art. The site’s content—ranging from documentaries on education policy to explorations of startup culture—has attracted viewers from diverse backgrounds.

• Educators and Policy Makers: No Child Left Behind resonated with teachers, administrators, and policy analysts, many of whom used the film as a springboard for discussion about education reform.

• Tech Community: Aardvark’d found a receptive audience among programmers, startup founders, and those interested in the inner workings of software development. Its cast included future tech luminaries, further boosting its appeal within the tech world.

• Art and Culture Enthusiasts: Colored Frames appealed to those interested in African American art and cultural history, providing a platform for underrepresented voices in the art world.

The site’s use of video trailers, festival updates, and educational resources helped broaden its reach beyond traditional film audiences.

Critical Reception and Reviews

While BoondoggleFilms.net itself has not been the subject of extensive critical review, the films it promoted have received varied feedback:

• No Child Left Behind was praised for its even-handedness and its ability to provoke thoughtful discussion. Some viewers appreciated the film’s refusal to take a simplistic stance, while others wished for a stronger editorial voice.

• Aardvark’d: 12 Weeks with Geeks received mixed reviews. Tech press outlets acknowledged its value as an accessible introduction to startup culture but critiqued it for not exploring technical details in greater depth. Nevertheless, its early success in DVD sales and as a digital download demonstrated significant interest.

• Colored Frames has been recognized in art circles for its contribution to the conversation about representation and diversity in American art, though mainstream coverage has been more limited.

Cultural and Social Significance

BoondoggleFilms.net occupies a unique place in the landscape of independent documentary filmmaking for several reasons:

Championing Underrepresented Stories
The site has showcased films that address topics often overlooked by mainstream media—such as the lived experiences of public school students and teachers, the challenges faced by Black artists, and the realities of startup life. By doing so, it has contributed to a richer, more inclusive cultural conversation.

Early Adoption of Digital Distribution
Aardvark’d’s release as a launch title for Google Video Store was a significant milestone, reflecting the growing importance of digital platforms for independent filmmakers. This move helped pave the way for other creators to reach audiences directly through online channels.

Educational Impact
No Child Left Behind was used as a resource in educational settings, sparking debate and reflection among teachers, students, and policymakers. Its balanced approach made it a useful tool for examining the complexities of education reform.

Community Engagement
By providing a platform for updates, screenings, and discussions, BoondoggleFilms.net fostered a sense of community among viewers, filmmakers, and advocates. The site’s emphasis on dialogue and reflection mirrored the values of the documentaries it promoted.

Details, Insights, and Examples

Aardvark’d: 12 Weeks with Geeks—A Case Study
The making of Aardvark’d is illustrative of BoondoggleFilms.net’s approach. The documentary was conceived after Joel Spolsky, CEO of Fog Creek Software, posted a call for a filmmaker to document the company’s summer intern project. Lerone Wilson was selected, and filming began shortly thereafter. The film provides a behind-the-scenes look at the pressures and triumphs of building a software product in a compressed timeframe. It features candid interviews with interns and company leaders, capturing both the technical and human aspects of startup life. The inclusion of tech luminaries such as Dan Bricklin and Paul Graham adds depth and context. Despite some criticism for not delving deeply into programming specifics, the film’s accessible style made it appealing to a wide audience. Its success in DVD sales and as a digital download highlights the potential for independent documentaries to find commercial success outside traditional distribution channels.

No Child Left Behind—Balancing Perspectives
Wilson’s documentary on the No Child Left Behind Act stands out for its refusal to take a polemical stance. Instead, it presents a range of viewpoints, allowing viewers to grapple with the law’s complexities. This approach has been praised by educators and reviewers alike, who see value in the film’s capacity to foster nuanced discussion.

Key Personnel and Collaborators

While BoondoggleFilms.net was primarily the platform for Lerone D. Wilson’s work, his projects often involved collaboration with other talented individuals:

• Andrea Mustain: Producer and journalist specializing in science, business, and technology, with experience at WNYC, Marketplace, PRX, and PBS.

• Evan Griffin: Associate producer, cinematographer, and editor, with credits on PBS, HBO, ESPN, and other major networks.

These collaborators brought diverse skills and perspectives to the projects featured on BoondoggleFilms.net, enhancing the quality and reach of the films.

Legacy and Evolution

While BoondoggleFilms.net was the original home for Lerone D. Wilson’s early work, his career has continued to evolve. Wilson has gone on to produce and direct additional documentaries for PBS and public television, including Startup America and Concert for Newtown (a Bill Moyers Special). His expertise in both filmmaking and technology has positioned him as a versatile creator at the intersection of media and innovation. The site’s legacy lies in its role as a launchpad for these projects and as a model for how independent filmmakers can leverage the internet to build audiences, foster dialogue, and achieve critical and commercial success.

 

BoondoggleFilms.net represents a significant chapter in the story of independent documentary filmmaking in the digital age. As the original online home for Lerone D. Wilson’s early works, the site played a key role in promoting films that addressed vital social issues, engaged diverse audiences, and embraced new modes of distribution. Its impact is evident in the critical reception of its featured films, its adoption by educators and tech enthusiasts, and its contribution to broader conversations about representation, innovation, and community in media.

 

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