In a world that often overlooks the quiet but significant challenges faced by people of colour, ‘All The Little Things’ dares to spotlight the emotional toll of daily microaggressions on a young Black creative named Adae. This film resonates with many of us who know what it’s like to navigate predominantly white spaces, where the subtle slights and seemingly small comments can leave a deep impact on our well-being. Meena Ayittey the creator of this impactful story, a former motion designer and VFX artist with ten years in the industry, draws from her own experience to bring authenticity and empathy to Adae’s journey.
When we asked Meena Ayittey about what inspired her to tell Adae’s story, she shared, “I wanted to show how much words can impact our lived experiences as Black people existing in predominantly white spaces.” For so many of us, this is a reality that resonates deeply—the experience of being one of the few Black faces in a creative field where representation is still too rare. Through Adae, All The Little Things brings this complex reality to life, reflecting the day-to-day challenges and the unseen emotional scars that so many Black and brown people carry.
Meena Ayittey – Director of ‘All The Little Things’
Shaping Adae’s Journey Through Collaboration
The narrative of All The Little Things was shaped in collaboration with Christopher Medford and Bethany Jones, who initially approached Meena with a draft of the film. She then reimagined it to reflect the journey of a single Black creative, exposing the microaggressions that he faces. Through her own lens, she infused the story with a depth and specificity that underscores the experience of being “the only one.” Her rewriting turned the narrative into a story that shows how cumulative, seemingly minor offenses can form real, tangible scars.
Personal Reflections on Adae’s Challenges
Many aspects of Adae’s story are pulled directly from personal experiences. One of the most powerful symbols in the film is the appearance of physical scars on Adae. These visible marks aren’t just a narrative tool—they’re a representation of the emotional wounds that microaggressions leave on Black individuals. “I wanted these ‘scars’ to be visible so that the audience could see that Adae was not imagining them,” Meena explained. It’s a statement of the undeniable impact of these interactions, one that viewers can feel in every scene.
Building Tension and Emotional Authenticity
Music and sound design play a critical role in shaping the tension throughout the film. We see most of the story through Adae’s eyes, experiencing each incident as he does. This approach amplifies the emotional weight of his journey, drawing us in with every moment of hurt, resilience, and perseverance.
Guiding the cast to authentically convey these emotions was essential. “There was a shared understanding with the cast ahead of filming,” Meena tells us. Demiji, who plays Adae, brought an incredible ability to express complex emotions, capturing the quiet storm of feelings that arise from Adae’s experiences. His performance makes the emotional journey feel raw and real, giving voice to the struggles so many face in silence.
Contributing to the Diversity Dialogue in Creative Industries
All The Little Things isn’t just a film; it’s a conversation starter. By giving a visual form to microaggressions, it opens a window for those who may not understand the concept fully. “Microaggressions are something people of color experience daily,” Meena explains. She hopes the film will foster empathy, providing insight for those who have never faced these challenges themselves and a sense of validation for those who have.
Adding to the Black Identity Conversation During Black History Month
The film also adds depth to the ongoing conversation about Black identity. While she’s candid about her reservations around Black History Month, believing the conversation should be a continuous one, she sees the importance of sharing these stories. Through All The Little Things, Meena illustrates the nuances of racism in supposedly progressive spaces, reminding viewers that the effects of racism can be subtle but significant.
A New Platform and a Hope for Impact
With All The Little Things airing on Generation Black TV, there’s an opportunity for a wider audience to connect with Adae’s story. “I really hope the film resonates with viewers on Generation Black TV and provokes thoughtful and meaningful conversations,” Meena says, expressing her gratitude for the platform’s support.
All The Little Things is a reminder that every experience, every comment, every “little thing” matters. In a society where we still often feel invisible, this film demands to be seen and felt, opening a door for all of us to understand, discuss, and ultimately, heal.
