In Splash City, survival isn’t a theme. It’s a daily requirement. Set in the raw, unforgiving corners of San Francisco, the film dives headfirst into a city that doesn’t slow down and doesn’t forgive. This is a world where brotherhood collides with violence, ambition battles loyalty, and every choice carries a price. Against a backdrop shaped by racial injustice, economic disparity, and limited opportunity, Splash City pulses with urgency and truth.
At the heart of the story are the Johnson brothers: Elijah “Slim” Johnson (Zach Sowers) and Julian “Juju” Johnson (Reed Shannon), two African-American siblings raised by a relentless single mother in a low-income apartment where simply getting through the day is a victory. Same household. Same struggles. Completely different paths.
The difference between Slim and Juju is very obvious (and intentionally so) but it comes down to gifts vs grit. Slim seems to have it all, and Juju has to fight for everything as Bay Area rap icon Berner’s gangster tale also confidently handles themes like regret, revenge and choices you undo. Reed Shannon brings realism to the character whether it’s through emotional exchanges with Sowers or the out-of-his-element naivety navigating levels of the criminal landscape.
Shannon has grown as an actor with this role and he’s already had plenty of remarkable career opportunities to date. Finding his voice at a young age helped propel him into entertainment. And he’s been proficient with music, improv, stage performances and more. He even owns a bar. Talk about a young enterpenuer.
The charismatic fan-favorite voice actor and singer/comedian sits with us to discuss his work and what fuels him creatively. Full of life, energy and love, Reed puts everything into his work and is always on the lookout for the next project that inspires him. He’s also focused on putting positivity out in the world. Enjoy this episode of The GoSeeTalk Podcast Experience!
In this gritty crime thriller, two brothers, Juju and Slim, struggle to survive the streets of San Francisco, where loyalty can turn into betrayal in an instant. While Slim sees basketball as his way out, Juju falls deeper into a life of smash-and-grab robberies under the control of a backstabbing crew leader. As tensions rise, the brothers must choose between fighting for a brighter future or succumbing to the violent legacy that threatens to consume them both.
From Lionsgate, SPLASH CITY will be released in Select Theaters on July 20
