Durham’s Damien Elliott Bynum Debut Film “Panda Bear It” Airing On Amazon Prime Video
DURHAM, NC – Durham native Damien Elliott Bynum has a new film “Panda Bear It” that premiered on Amazon Prime in the U.S. on Oct. 4, 2020. The actor, musician, songwriter, and producer is also known by his artist name, Kamus Leonardo, which is the name of Damien’s character in the movie. According to the synopsis, in “Panda Bear It” local rapper Kamus Leonardo’s world is upended upon the sudden death of his girlfriend Destiny. To make matters worse he’s hanging out with a panda bear.
In this episode of #SpecMagShorts, Damien talks with host Phyllis Coley about the movie, “Panda Bear It,” which was written and directed by Evan Kidd. Damien explains how the movie came about, where it was shot, and shows us the movie trailer. The actor, musician, songwriter, and producer tells us more about his music and upcoming releases, including a song in the movie.
Watch [#SpecMagNC] Damien Elliott Bynum: Star of “Panda Bear It” (Includes Movie Trailer):
Panda Bear It was expertly written for those individuals that watch movies for the silver lining and/or the central message of the film. The movie’s synopsis, name, and even the cover art, only provide enough to entice you to watch the film. All through the movie, the panda bear appears by Kamus Leonardo almost like an imaginary friend that came around during childhood that only the child knew about to help get through difficult times. If you pay close attention from beginning to end, you’ll understand what the panda bear represents. The movie ends with Kamus Leonardo recording a song he had been working on the entire movie “You’re Not Alone.” (see video below)
Spectacular Magazine sought to get to know more about Damien, what inspired his first acting gig, “Panda Bear It” and a look into the artist Kamus Leonardo:
Angelica Bonds (AB): What made you start acting?
Damien (D): I’ve always wanted to be an actor ever since “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” Will Smith inspired me to show that you can still be yourself while playing a fictional character. I was too afraid to give it a shot because of my confidence level at the time. Until one day, a friend of mine Evan Kidd (who’s the director of the movie) hits me up to meet up in person. Mind you, we’ve never met in person and always admired each other’s work through social media. What started off as a 2-hour conversation about life turned into a movie script for our film “Panda Bear It“. I will never forget, two weeks later he hit me up asking me if I’d be down to make a movie with him as the lead role and the rest was history! For someone who I had just met to believe and trust in me enough to manifest this idea to life is a blessing! Evan inspired me and showed me that I can really do this.
AB: What is the inspiration for the film?
D: The inspiration behind the film came from our two-hour conversation about life and all the above! I told him about dealing with the loss of my mother and I guess he was able to compartmentalize everything I’ve said and turn it into a film. A lot of times films dealing with artists have this climax moment of moving to a new city, meeting a record executive, or another artist to change the direction of their lives. We’ve decided to be more realistic with this film by showing you that everything you need is within you already, and you can utilize your current surroundings based upon your perception of life. Our current circumstances are only temporary and don’t define us as a whole. It’s up to us to appreciate the process and not get so caught up with the destination. Also, who doesn’t love Pandas?
AB: What is the story behind the film?
D: “Local rapper Kamus Leonardo’s world is upended upon the sudden death of his girlfriend Destiny. To make matters worse he’s hanging out with a panda bear who may or may not be a figment of his own imagination. A deep dive into the surreal, heartfelt, and challenging world of grief recovery with a little bit of imagination.” That is the official description of the movie! If I continue to talk about the story of the film, I already know I’m going to spoil it! I will say this, everyone in the film did a great job and they’ve inspired me to bring my A-game. This was my very first time acting and everyone involved created a safe space for people to be comfortable and to leave their egos at the door. I believe you feel the chemistry amongst everyone throughout the film and the people will definitely enjoy it!
AB: When did you start your music?
D: I’ve always been a writer. I wrote my first two books in the 2nd & 3rd Grade, and then I transitioned into poetry. In the 6th grade, I had a project assigned to me and we had the option to make a report, create a visual, or make a rap song. I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and create a rap song. Mind you, I’ve never made a rap song. I went home the following day and told my mother and she ended up writing it for me. Long story short, I presented the rap song to the class the following day and everyone stood up and cheered. They asked me if I wrote it and I lied saying yes. I told my mother that I lied about writing it, and she laughed. Thankfully she understood, and I’m not afraid to admit my mother was my first ghostwriter!
AB: In what ways has your music changed since you’ve gotten started?
D: My music has changed a lot actually. Starting off, I had to figure out how to write my own story. After realizing my mother was my ghostwriter, she inspired me to learn how to figure it out myself. I used to write songs that I knew would make her proud, but then I slowly transitioned to writing for my own pleasure by being honest with myself about my flaws and all. Fast forward to today, my writing has evolved onto actually creating SONGS and not just raps. I was willing to learn and observe artists in all genres to help master my craft whilst remaining original.
AB: What is your motivation for your art?
D: My main motivation for my art is my mother Dr. Sharon Elliott-Bynum, of course. Ever since she passed away in 2016, I promised her and myself that I will live in my light unapologetically. Another motivation of mine is to speak up for those who may not know how to communicate their emotions through words. It’s a beautiful privilege to know that you’re not alone in this journey we call life!
AB: Who are your musical or artistic influences?
D: The very first albums I’ve ever purchased (when CD’s were a thing) were “Late Registration” by Kanye West and “Madvillany” by MF Doom & Madlib. I remember playing the albums on repeat going to sleep and waking up the next morning getting ready for school letting it play as if it was my soundtrack to life. Wouldn’t be surprised if I absorbed a lot of influence on a subconscious level. As I got older, I started listening to different genres of music to broaden my horizons. I would listen to artists such as Sublime, 311, Tame Impala, Daft Punk, and the Gorillaz. They’ve inspired me to expand my comfort zone. It’s so many to name, but I’m inspired by music that makes me feel something.
AB: Are there any artists with whom you would like to collaborate with? Why?
D: I would love to collaborate with Kanye West to have that full-circle moment in life. He wasn’t afraid to be himself and his level of confidence is what I aspire to achieve in this lifetime. I also would love to collaborate with Tyler The Creator because he’s a musical genius on the production tip. I feel like he can add some vibrant colors to my canvas. The list goes on forever, honestly.
AB: Do you have any upcoming projects, showcases, or appearances? What are your next steps?
D: I’m currently working on my album “Damien” and this is an opportunity to showcase my musical influences outside of hip-hop by experimenting with different sounds and to challenge myself. Each project I’ve released thus far is a time capsule of where I am at in life at the time. I plan on utilizing this album by creating music that is timeless and can be played in the years to come!
Check out Damien/Kamus Leonardo on the following social media platforms and check out his featured film on Amazon Prime, “Panda Bear It”.
YouTube @ Kamus Leonardo
Instagram @kamustheleader
Twitter @kamustheleader