
Color Book is a film that defies its name. Shot in a poetic black and white aesthetic, it strips away the distraction of color to reveal something far richer: the deep, vibrant emotions of love, loss and triumph.
At the heart of this cinematic masterpiece is 12-year-old
Jeremiah Daniels. The North Middle School student’s magnetic debut with seasoned actor Will Catlett paints a vivid picture of the often-overlooked lives of families raising children with special needs.
Written and directed by David Fortune, Color Book tells the touching story of Lucky (Catlett), a single father navigating life after tragedy with his son Mason (Jeremiah) who has Down Syndrome. Their journey to Mason’s first professional baseball game becomes a powerful metaphor for resilience, showcasing the duo’s raw reality and unbreakable bond.
“It’s their perspective. Their lives. Their struggles. Their ups. Their downs,” said Fortune. “And Jeremiah’s performance was nothing short of magical.”
Cast from a pool of 12 aspiring actors, Jeremiah brought Mason to life with unrivaled authenticity and charm. His portrayal of Mason’s quiet strength and playful spirit has captivated audiences and critics alike, proving that even in monochrome, he was born to shine.
“I’m a movie star,” Jeremiah proudly declared, confident in his innate talent. Catlett echoed this sentiment, professing to Jeremiah, “You did such a fantastic job! You ARE a movie star!”
Jeremiah’s parents, Joi and Terrance Daniels, always believed in his limitless potential. “What I hope parents take away is not to limit your children and never box them in,” said Joi. “Trust and know that they can do anything.”
Terrance agrees. “Our children will tell us the direction they need to go,” he said. “We just have to be patient and secure enough to listen and follow them.”
The Daniels followed Jeremiah’s lead, indeed…right onto set. Catlett credits their presence as a “cheat code,” offering him invaluable insight into their unique world.
“I would look for when they were uncomfortable, tired or upset,” said Catlett. “I would pull from that to see if I was being too hard on Mason or how authentic I could be.”
Authenticity was truly key. Color Book has made waves at major film festivals, from the Deauville American Film Festival in France to the Tribeca Festival in New York, earning critical acclaim for its unfiltered storytelling. And though it’s still on the festival circuit, Jeremiah’s sights are set on a future as bright as his smile.
“I will make some new movies, and I’m gonna get an award,” he declared with his signature confidence.
Aurora Public Schools is cheering Jeremiah on as he continues to break barriers. Join us in following his road to stardom on Instagram at
@jadaniels25!