Growing Up

"Growing Up," chronicles the extensive career of Fernando Pullum as a music educator in South Central Los Angeles. Over sixteen years, the project captures how Pullum’s mentorship helped students overcome socioeconomic challenges to achieve massive professional success, including Grammy Awards and performances with global icons. The narrative highlights his mission to cultivate well-rounded individuals rather than just talented performers, focusing on a decade-long dialogue between two former students. Additionally, the excerpts introduce the film’s director, Leslie Dektor, a highly decorated filmmaker recognized for his realistic style and focus on the human condition. Dektor's approach blends a painterly aesthetic with a commitment to portraying his subjects with dignity and emotional depth.


Directed by 2-time winner and 13-time nominee DGA Director of the Year, Leslie Dektor.

About the Filmmaker- Leslie Dektor

Excerpt From Creativity Magazine:

“More than any other commercial director, the South African born Leslie Dektor has defined the zeitgeist. His trademarks are realism, moving cameras, heavily adapted scripts, unorthodox working methods and characters off the street - techniques that, through heavy imitation, have quickly faded into commercial conformity. His aim has always been to portray the human condition.
After taking his directing techniques to its jagged edge, dragging a host of imitators behind him, Leslie Dektor has come full circle, back to the lyricism of his early years in the US - a return to painting the picture. Painting moments is a subject Dektor nows a lot about. It displays his Dektor’s painterly talent for landscapes and lighting. His work is are full of such sweet nothings. He is a man who has a very personal vision. He loves people and he loves life and the small things in life. He sees a lot of sadness, happiness, and bitter-sweetness. He tries to give it all a message of dignity. “
— Ann Cooper

Film Laurels:

• Official Selection, Pan African Film Festival, 2019