After a lauded world premiere at Toronto International Film Festival, writer-director, and star, Ryan O’Nan has seemingly announced his presence on his own terms.

His “passion” project, Brooklyn Brothers Beat the Best, is screening this weekend at the 6th Annual Gasparilla International Film Festival, currently underway in Tampa, Florida. The talented performer is pulling double-duty at the fest, for he’s not only making the rounds promoting the film and partaking in Q&A sessions, he’s also showcasing his musical attributes, as seen in the film, for the festival patrons on an outdoor stage as well.

O’Nan met up with yours truly at the historic Tampa Theatre and the guy allowed us to venture into his creative and easy-going thought processes regarding his debut film…