Chart-Topper Khalid Celebrates Album Release with Short Film 'Free Spirit'

The creative partnership between Emil Nava and artist Khalid has been engaging fans across the globe. After showing in cinemas on the 3rd of April for one night only, their short film ‘Free Spirit’, which shares its name with the album, is a wholesome portrait of condemned youth in the US.

‘Free Spirit’ follows the bleak circumstances and hopeful dreams of a group of teens, hindered as their ambitions grow far greater than the boundaries of their small town. Led by firecracker protagonist ‘Ladybug’, the group of friends set out on a journey of self-discovery, culminating in tragedy, stoked by jealousy and doubt. Featuring an on-screen performance from Khalid, ‘Free Spirit’ ultimately explores the ins-and-outs of teenage turmoil, forever searching for bigger, better and wilder.

The idea was born on Christmas Eve, where Nava and Khalid kicked it off, resulting in an initial music video for Khalid’s single ‘Talk’. The pair immediately began sharing ideas and following on from Emil shooting his first feature (still unreleased), they decided to develop the story Khalid intended to tell for ‘Free Spirit’. The artist was particularly interested in making something different, not just a visual album, instead a full-fledged narrative in its own right. The film shot for 10 days out in the desert outskirts of Los Angeles.

A core part of the whole production is the directors collective that exists under the umbrella of Ammolite Inc, with creatives Chloe Hughes, Grace Pickering, Noah Duran and Emil all collaborating for the output of ‘Free Spirit’. All taking part in the production, their multifaceted ability to tap into culture and deliver a complete package for each project is unique. As a team they bring a specialty creative, combining their unique expertise. Ammolite’s family-like dynamic is really present in each and every collaboration, which seamlessly translates into their work — ‘Free Spirit’ being no exception.