Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York, including events for Love Lies Bleeding, Girls5Eva, Kung Fu Panda 4 and Damsel.
Only Murders in the Building FYC screening
Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez and Meryl Streep took part in an Emmy FYC screening and Q&a on the Paramount lot on March 1, alongside showrunner John Hoffman and songwriters Benj Pasek and Justin Paul.
Martin Short, Meryl Streep, Benj Pasek, John Hoffman, Selena Gomez, Steve Martin, Jane Lynch and Justin Paul
Damsel premiere
Millie Bobby Brown and Robin Wright walked the carpet on March 1 at the NYC premiere of their new Netflix film. Brown was also supported by fiancé Jake Bongiovi and his parents, Jon Bon Jovi and Dorothea Hurley.
Millie Bobby Brown and Robin Wright Jake Bongiovi, Millie Bobby Brown, Dorothea Hurley and Jon Bon Jovi
Kung Fu Panda 4 premiere
Jack Black,...
Only Murders in the Building FYC screening
Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez and Meryl Streep took part in an Emmy FYC screening and Q&a on the Paramount lot on March 1, alongside showrunner John Hoffman and songwriters Benj Pasek and Justin Paul.
Martin Short, Meryl Streep, Benj Pasek, John Hoffman, Selena Gomez, Steve Martin, Jane Lynch and Justin Paul
Damsel premiere
Millie Bobby Brown and Robin Wright walked the carpet on March 1 at the NYC premiere of their new Netflix film. Brown was also supported by fiancé Jake Bongiovi and his parents, Jon Bon Jovi and Dorothea Hurley.
Millie Bobby Brown and Robin Wright Jake Bongiovi, Millie Bobby Brown, Dorothea Hurley and Jon Bon Jovi
Kung Fu Panda 4 premiere
Jack Black,...
- 3/8/2024
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 6th American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Honors announced today that Kelvin Harrison Jr. is the recipient of the 2024 Rising Star Award which is presented to a contemporary artist in acknowledgement of their recent success and future promise in the film and television industry. The 2024 ABFF Honors is presented by Nice Crowd and will take place on Sunday, March 3rd at the Sls hotel in Beverly Hills, hosted by actor and comedian Tommy Davidson. Guests at the intimate, non-televised dinner will include ABFF honorees and festival partners.
As previously announced, the ABFF Honors will also celebrate legendary performer Garrett Morris; Academy Award nominated, Emmy nominated and Golden Globe-winning actress Taraji P. Henson; Tony, Emmy, AFI, and Golden Globe Award-winning actor Jeffrey Wright, and groundbreaking writer and producer Mara Brock Akil. The ABFF Fan Favorite Movie of the Year will also be announced at the show. Nominees in that category include: “A Thousand and One,...
As previously announced, the ABFF Honors will also celebrate legendary performer Garrett Morris; Academy Award nominated, Emmy nominated and Golden Globe-winning actress Taraji P. Henson; Tony, Emmy, AFI, and Golden Globe Award-winning actor Jeffrey Wright, and groundbreaking writer and producer Mara Brock Akil. The ABFF Fan Favorite Movie of the Year will also be announced at the show. Nominees in that category include: “A Thousand and One,...
- 2/6/2024
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
Taraji P. Henson, Jeffrey Wright, Garrett Morris and Mara Brock Akil will be saluted at the sixth annual ABFF Honors, presented by Nice Crowd.
Founded in 2016, ABFF Honors is the American Black Film Festival’s awards season gala, dedicated to recognizing excellence in the motion picture and television industry. The intimate, non-televised dinner, to be held at the Sls in Beverly Hills on March 3, will be hosted by actor and comedian Tommy Davidson.
Henson and Wright — who sat down last year for Variety’s Actors on Actors series to discuss their turns in “The Color Purple” and “American Fiction,” respectively — will receive the Excellence in the Arts awards, presented in recognition of their body of work and career achievement. News comes a day after Wright earned his first Academy Award nomination for the role, adding to a trophy case that already includes Emmy, Golden Globe and Tony awards; meanwhile, the...
Founded in 2016, ABFF Honors is the American Black Film Festival’s awards season gala, dedicated to recognizing excellence in the motion picture and television industry. The intimate, non-televised dinner, to be held at the Sls in Beverly Hills on March 3, will be hosted by actor and comedian Tommy Davidson.
Henson and Wright — who sat down last year for Variety’s Actors on Actors series to discuss their turns in “The Color Purple” and “American Fiction,” respectively — will receive the Excellence in the Arts awards, presented in recognition of their body of work and career achievement. News comes a day after Wright earned his first Academy Award nomination for the role, adding to a trophy case that already includes Emmy, Golden Globe and Tony awards; meanwhile, the...
- 1/24/2024
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Issa Rae has been named creative director for the 2024 American Black Film Festival (ABFF), the annual film festival presented by Nice Crowd.
“Throughout the course of her career, Issa Rae has made an indelible impact within the entertainment ecosystem ranging from her wide array of roles – in front of and behind the camera – to her fierce advocacy for equitable representation and opportunities for Black creatives,” said ABFF co-founders and producers Nicole and Jeff Friday, in a statement announcing Rae’s appointment.
“We couldn’t think of a better partner to help us continue to embody the ABFF mission of showcasing Black talent — and discovering and amplifying new voices,” they added.
In the newly created role, Rae will work closely with the Fridays to program the lineup for the festival’s 28th edition, which will take place June 12-16, 2024 in Miami Beach, Fl.
“As one of the first major festivals to showcase my work,...
“Throughout the course of her career, Issa Rae has made an indelible impact within the entertainment ecosystem ranging from her wide array of roles – in front of and behind the camera – to her fierce advocacy for equitable representation and opportunities for Black creatives,” said ABFF co-founders and producers Nicole and Jeff Friday, in a statement announcing Rae’s appointment.
“We couldn’t think of a better partner to help us continue to embody the ABFF mission of showcasing Black talent — and discovering and amplifying new voices,” they added.
In the newly created role, Rae will work closely with the Fridays to program the lineup for the festival’s 28th edition, which will take place June 12-16, 2024 in Miami Beach, Fl.
“As one of the first major festivals to showcase my work,...
- 10/2/2023
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
HBO has debuted the first trailer for Donyale Luna: Supermodel, a documentary exploring the life, career and legacy of one of the first Black models to grace the cover of a Vogue magazine.
Often considered the “first Black supermodel,” Luna — who died in 1979 at the age of 33 — broke ground at a time when it was not only still rare to see Black women who weren’t white-passing in fashion but Black women on major magazine covers at all. Through her heyday in the late ’60s and early ’70s, Luna challenged the modeling world’s conventions and made history by becoming the first Black woman on the covers of both Harper’s Bazaar in 1965 and British Vogue in 1966.
“She broke the mold of using Black models in the ’60s,” one talking head can be heard saying in the more than two-minute trailer.
“Donyale Luna is the first Black woman to be on the cover of Vogue,...
Often considered the “first Black supermodel,” Luna — who died in 1979 at the age of 33 — broke ground at a time when it was not only still rare to see Black women who weren’t white-passing in fashion but Black women on major magazine covers at all. Through her heyday in the late ’60s and early ’70s, Luna challenged the modeling world’s conventions and made history by becoming the first Black woman on the covers of both Harper’s Bazaar in 1965 and British Vogue in 1966.
“She broke the mold of using Black models in the ’60s,” one talking head can be heard saying in the more than two-minute trailer.
“Donyale Luna is the first Black woman to be on the cover of Vogue,...
- 8/28/2023
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
ABFF Ventures, the company behind the American Film Festival (ABFF), is rebranding as Nice Crowd.
The company founded by CEO Jeff Friday and president Nicole Friday is kicking off their 27th annual ABFF in Miami Beach this week and is expanding their event offerings to include comedy, health & wellness, food and fine arts.
Launching in October in Washington, D.C., the first event under the Nice Crowd banner will be Because They’re Funny (Btf), a new comedy festival showcasing comedic talent within Bipoc communities.
“We are so thrilled to announce our new comedy festival, Because They’re Funny, which launches in Washington, DC, the hometown of many of today’s most beloved comedians of color,” the Fridays said in a statement. “While we proudly reflect on this festival and the company’s many accomplishments over the years, we look forward to an even brighter future, with even more incredible event offerings,...
The company founded by CEO Jeff Friday and president Nicole Friday is kicking off their 27th annual ABFF in Miami Beach this week and is expanding their event offerings to include comedy, health & wellness, food and fine arts.
Launching in October in Washington, D.C., the first event under the Nice Crowd banner will be Because They’re Funny (Btf), a new comedy festival showcasing comedic talent within Bipoc communities.
“We are so thrilled to announce our new comedy festival, Because They’re Funny, which launches in Washington, DC, the hometown of many of today’s most beloved comedians of color,” the Fridays said in a statement. “While we proudly reflect on this festival and the company’s many accomplishments over the years, we look forward to an even brighter future, with even more incredible event offerings,...
- 6/14/2023
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
As the American Black Film Festival kicks off its 27th edition in Miami Beach, Fla. on Wednesday night, the company behind the fest, ABFF Ventures, is announcing a rebrand.
The events entertainment company, led by founder and CEO Jeff Friday and president Nicole Friday, will now be called Nice Crowd, evoking the brand’s dedication to spotlighting Bipoc culture and achievements while emphasizing the power of gathering.
In addition to the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) and the annual ABFF Honors ceremony, Nice Crowd will expand its annual offerings to include comedy, health & wellness, food and fine art-focused events. The first new event under the Nice Crowd banner will be “Because They’re Funny” (Btf), a comedy festival showcasing comedic talent within Bipoc communities that will launch this October in Washington, D.C.
“We are so thrilled to announce our new comedy festival, Because They’re Funny, which launches in Washington,...
The events entertainment company, led by founder and CEO Jeff Friday and president Nicole Friday, will now be called Nice Crowd, evoking the brand’s dedication to spotlighting Bipoc culture and achievements while emphasizing the power of gathering.
In addition to the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) and the annual ABFF Honors ceremony, Nice Crowd will expand its annual offerings to include comedy, health & wellness, food and fine art-focused events. The first new event under the Nice Crowd banner will be “Because They’re Funny” (Btf), a comedy festival showcasing comedic talent within Bipoc communities that will launch this October in Washington, D.C.
“We are so thrilled to announce our new comedy festival, Because They’re Funny, which launches in Washington,...
- 6/14/2023
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York, including red carpets for Ted Lasso, Scream 6 and House of the Dragon.
Scream 6 premiere
The latest Ghostface flick premiered in NYC on Monday with stars Courteney Cox, Jenna Ortega, Melissa Barrera, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Mason Gooding, and Jack Champion. Several of the stars of Scream 5 also came out to support, including Jack Quaid and Dylan Minnette.
Devyn Nekoda, Liana Liberato, Melissa Barrera, Jenna Ortega and Courteney Cox Dylan Minnette, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Devyn Nekoda, Jack Champion, Tony Revolori, Liana Liberato, Melissa Barrera and Jack Quaid Spyglass Media Group’s Peter Oillataguerre and Gary Barber
Ted Lasso premiere
Season three of the hit Apple TV+ comedy debuted in L.A. on Tuesday with stars Jason Sudeikis, Brett Goldstein, Hannah Waddingham, Phil Dunster, Brendan Hunt, Jeremy Swift, Cristo Fernández and Toheeb Jimoh,...
Scream 6 premiere
The latest Ghostface flick premiered in NYC on Monday with stars Courteney Cox, Jenna Ortega, Melissa Barrera, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Mason Gooding, and Jack Champion. Several of the stars of Scream 5 also came out to support, including Jack Quaid and Dylan Minnette.
Devyn Nekoda, Liana Liberato, Melissa Barrera, Jenna Ortega and Courteney Cox Dylan Minnette, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Devyn Nekoda, Jack Champion, Tony Revolori, Liana Liberato, Melissa Barrera and Jack Quaid Spyglass Media Group’s Peter Oillataguerre and Gary Barber
Ted Lasso premiere
Season three of the hit Apple TV+ comedy debuted in L.A. on Tuesday with stars Jason Sudeikis, Brett Goldstein, Hannah Waddingham, Phil Dunster, Brendan Hunt, Jeremy Swift, Cristo Fernández and Toheeb Jimoh,...
- 3/10/2023
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 2023 American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Honors is set to recognize Kerry Washington, Courtney B. Vance, Charles D. King and Janelle Monáe with special honors during the annual award ceremony saluting excellence in the motion picture and television industry.
Washington, an Emmy winner and SAG and Golden Globe-nominated actor, director and producer, will be presented with the Excellence in the Arts Award (Female), while two-time Emmy winner Vance will accept the award for Excellence in the Arts (Male). MacRo founder and CEO King will be presented the Industry Leadership Award, while eight-time Grammy-nominated artist, producer and actor Monáe receives the Renaissance Award. Kasi Lemmons’ 1997 drama “Eve’s Bayou” will be honored with the Classic Cinema Award.
The fifth ABFF Honors will take place on Sunday, March 5, hosted by Emmy-nominated writer, actor and comedian Deon Cole. The intimate, non-televised dinner and award ceremony is executive produced by Nicole and Jeff Friday (under...
Washington, an Emmy winner and SAG and Golden Globe-nominated actor, director and producer, will be presented with the Excellence in the Arts Award (Female), while two-time Emmy winner Vance will accept the award for Excellence in the Arts (Male). MacRo founder and CEO King will be presented the Industry Leadership Award, while eight-time Grammy-nominated artist, producer and actor Monáe receives the Renaissance Award. Kasi Lemmons’ 1997 drama “Eve’s Bayou” will be honored with the Classic Cinema Award.
The fifth ABFF Honors will take place on Sunday, March 5, hosted by Emmy-nominated writer, actor and comedian Deon Cole. The intimate, non-televised dinner and award ceremony is executive produced by Nicole and Jeff Friday (under...
- 2/13/2023
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
ABFF Ventures LLC said Wednesday it will hold the American Black Film Festival Honors in Los Angeles on Sunday, March 5, with Emmy-nominated writer, actor and comedian Deon Cole returning as host. ABFF’s annual award season gala honors Black artists who have made contributions to the motion picture and television industry, as well as diversity and inclusion in Hollywood.
The tributes will be presented in multiple categories including Hollywood Legacy Award, Excellence in the Arts Award, Entertainment Icon Award, Rising Star Award and Industry Leadership Award. In addition, ABFF Honors presents awards for Movie of the Year and Documentary of the Year. Nominees and winners for both categories are determined by the more than 100,000 festival alumni.
“This has been a phenomenal year for Black artists, and we are thrilled to celebrate their many successes, milestones and breakout moments. I’m equally excited to have comedic genius Deon Cole hosting this inspiring ceremony,...
The tributes will be presented in multiple categories including Hollywood Legacy Award, Excellence in the Arts Award, Entertainment Icon Award, Rising Star Award and Industry Leadership Award. In addition, ABFF Honors presents awards for Movie of the Year and Documentary of the Year. Nominees and winners for both categories are determined by the more than 100,000 festival alumni.
“This has been a phenomenal year for Black artists, and we are thrilled to celebrate their many successes, milestones and breakout moments. I’m equally excited to have comedic genius Deon Cole hosting this inspiring ceremony,...
- 12/14/2022
- by Valerie Complex
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
The American Black Film Festival is spreading its international wings again, with its global screening series set to return to the U.K. later this year.
Presented by ABFF Ventures and Sony Pictures Entertainment, in association with the U.K.-based S.O.U.L. Fest, the second instalment of the ABFF Global series will take place September 16-18, and will feature screenings, panel discussions and networking events with London-based content creatives. The events will be held at the British Film Institute and other venues around London during the fifth annual S.O.U.L. Fest.
“ABFF is rooted in building bridges and fostering alliances between Black content creators around the world. Spe’s support of ABFF Global has allowed us to further this mission,” said Jeff Friday, ABFF founder and CEO ABFF Ventures. “We have a deep respect for the S.O.
The American Black Film Festival is spreading its international wings again, with its global screening series set to return to the U.K. later this year.
Presented by ABFF Ventures and Sony Pictures Entertainment, in association with the U.K.-based S.O.U.L. Fest, the second instalment of the ABFF Global series will take place September 16-18, and will feature screenings, panel discussions and networking events with London-based content creatives. The events will be held at the British Film Institute and other venues around London during the fifth annual S.O.U.L. Fest.
“ABFF is rooted in building bridges and fostering alliances between Black content creators around the world. Spe’s support of ABFF Global has allowed us to further this mission,” said Jeff Friday, ABFF founder and CEO ABFF Ventures. “We have a deep respect for the S.O.
- 7/26/2022
- by Alex Ritman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Makeup Artists and Hair Stylists Guild has announced its awards timeline.
The 10th Annual Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild Awards returns to The Beverly Hilton Hotel on Feb. 11, 2023.
The Muahs Awards honors outstanding achievements for make-up artists and hair stylists in motion pictures, television, commercials, and live theater. The announcement was made today by Julie Socash, President of Muahs, Local 706.
The 2022-2023 Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild Awards Timeline:
• Submissions Open for TV & Feature Film – Oct. 31
• Submissions Close for Entries – Nov. 30 (5:00 pm Pt)
• Nominations Voting Begins – Dec. 16
• Nominations Voting Closes – Jan. 6. 2023
• Nominations Announced – Jan. 11, 2023
• Final Online Voting Begins – Jan. 23, 2023
• Final Online Voting Closes. – Feb. 3, 2023 (5:00 pm Pt)
• Winners Announced at Muahs Awards Gala – Feb. 11, 2023
*Dates subject to change
BAFTA Announces 2022 Yugo BAFTA Student Award Winners And 20,000 Special Jury Prize
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts announced the winners of the 2022 Yugo BAFTA Student Awards during a...
The 10th Annual Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild Awards returns to The Beverly Hilton Hotel on Feb. 11, 2023.
The Muahs Awards honors outstanding achievements for make-up artists and hair stylists in motion pictures, television, commercials, and live theater. The announcement was made today by Julie Socash, President of Muahs, Local 706.
The 2022-2023 Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild Awards Timeline:
• Submissions Open for TV & Feature Film – Oct. 31
• Submissions Close for Entries – Nov. 30 (5:00 pm Pt)
• Nominations Voting Begins – Dec. 16
• Nominations Voting Closes – Jan. 6. 2023
• Nominations Announced – Jan. 11, 2023
• Final Online Voting Begins – Jan. 23, 2023
• Final Online Voting Closes. – Feb. 3, 2023 (5:00 pm Pt)
• Winners Announced at Muahs Awards Gala – Feb. 11, 2023
*Dates subject to change
BAFTA Announces 2022 Yugo BAFTA Student Award Winners And 20,000 Special Jury Prize
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts announced the winners of the 2022 Yugo BAFTA Student Awards during a...
- 7/26/2022
- by Jazz Tangcay and EJ Panaligan
- Variety Film + TV
Documentaries
U.K. TV producer Content Kings and production finance broker and distribution agent Silverlining Rights have revealed a raft of international pre-sales for “Diana: The Ultimate Truth” (1×60’), a documentary which investigates the circumstances leading up to the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, 25 years ago. Despite a verdict of unlawful killing and two police investigations into the devastating crash, many questions around what happened, and who is responsible, remain. The documentary follows journalist Mark Williams-Thomas whose investigation includes interviews with security experts; forensic crash investigators and photographers at the Metropolitan Police who investigated the fatal car crash; and a new witness to the crash – all speaking for the first time – along with close friends of Princess Diana, and individuals caught up in her infamous BBC Panorama interview.
The documentary has been pre-sold to Reelz (U.S.), Paramount+ (U.K.), Foxtel’s Fox Docos (Australia), TV2 (Denmark), Rtl Deutschland (Germany...
U.K. TV producer Content Kings and production finance broker and distribution agent Silverlining Rights have revealed a raft of international pre-sales for “Diana: The Ultimate Truth” (1×60’), a documentary which investigates the circumstances leading up to the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, 25 years ago. Despite a verdict of unlawful killing and two police investigations into the devastating crash, many questions around what happened, and who is responsible, remain. The documentary follows journalist Mark Williams-Thomas whose investigation includes interviews with security experts; forensic crash investigators and photographers at the Metropolitan Police who investigated the fatal car crash; and a new witness to the crash – all speaking for the first time – along with close friends of Princess Diana, and individuals caught up in her infamous BBC Panorama interview.
The documentary has been pre-sold to Reelz (U.S.), Paramount+ (U.K.), Foxtel’s Fox Docos (Australia), TV2 (Denmark), Rtl Deutschland (Germany...
- 6/14/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: HBO Documentary Films is embarking on a documentary about pioneering supermodel Donyale Luna, one of the first Black models to be featured on the covers of major European fashion magazines.
Nailah Jefferson (Vanishing Pearls: The Oystermen of Pointe à la Hache), is directing the film, teaming with Oscar- and Emmy-winning Lightbox, and Jeff Friday Media (HBO’s Yusuf Hawkins: Storm Over Brooklyn).
Luna was born Peggy Anne Freeman in Detroit in 1945 and began going by the name Donyale Luna in her late teens as she launched her modeling career. In March 1966 she became the first model of color to grace the cover of the British edition of Vogue (wearing a Chloé dress and photographed by David Bailey). She also appeared on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar and other leading fashion publications. Richard Avedon and William Claxton are among the greats who photographed her.
Nailah Jefferson (Vanishing Pearls: The Oystermen of Pointe à la Hache), is directing the film, teaming with Oscar- and Emmy-winning Lightbox, and Jeff Friday Media (HBO’s Yusuf Hawkins: Storm Over Brooklyn).
Luna was born Peggy Anne Freeman in Detroit in 1945 and began going by the name Donyale Luna in her late teens as she launched her modeling career. In March 1966 she became the first model of color to grace the cover of the British edition of Vogue (wearing a Chloé dress and photographed by David Bailey). She also appeared on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar and other leading fashion publications. Richard Avedon and William Claxton are among the greats who photographed her.
- 6/13/2022
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Jeff Friday Media (Jfm) has landed writer/director Khaled Ridgeway’s second film project Lucid Summer. Jfm, which has a motion picture development deal with Sony Pictures, has signed on to produce the film that follows Ridgeway’s award-winning comedy-drama Death of a Telemarketer recently acquired by Sony Pictures.
With a script by Ridgeway and Noah Cooper, Lucid Summer is a dramatic psychological thriller about how a family navigates a hidden world of secrets while managing to keep secrets from one another. The film will be directed by American Black Film Festival (ABFF) alum Ridgeway. ABFF founder and Jfm CEO Jeff Friday will serve as executive producer along with Nicole Friday, ABFF Ventures president and Gm. The film marked Jfm’s first production with Sony Pictures as a result of the company’s distinct motion picture partnership. Production will begin in Summer 2022.
“Great relationships play an integral part in any artist’s success,...
With a script by Ridgeway and Noah Cooper, Lucid Summer is a dramatic psychological thriller about how a family navigates a hidden world of secrets while managing to keep secrets from one another. The film will be directed by American Black Film Festival (ABFF) alum Ridgeway. ABFF founder and Jfm CEO Jeff Friday will serve as executive producer along with Nicole Friday, ABFF Ventures president and Gm. The film marked Jfm’s first production with Sony Pictures as a result of the company’s distinct motion picture partnership. Production will begin in Summer 2022.
“Great relationships play an integral part in any artist’s success,...
- 12/19/2021
- by Valerie Complex
- Deadline Film + TV
In 1997, Jeff Friday, founder and CEO of Jeff Friday Media, was working as the film division president of UniWorld Group, a prominent multicultural advertising agency headquartered in New York and founded by legendary ad world maven Byron E. Lewis. In January of that year, in search of new clientele within the entertainment industry, Friday headed to the Sundance Film Festival. It was the first film festival he had ever attended. It was also the year writer-director Theodore Witcher’s award-winning “Love Jones” screened at the fest, ushering in an era of what Friday calls “the glory days of Black cinema.” That film, and the experience of seeing it at Sundance, altered the trajectory of Friday’s career.
“This was right around the time of such films as ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back,’ ‘Love and Basketball,’ and Spike Lee,” Friday recalls. “‘Sex, Lies and Videotape’ had just happened and there...
“This was right around the time of such films as ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back,’ ‘Love and Basketball,’ and Spike Lee,” Friday recalls. “‘Sex, Lies and Videotape’ had just happened and there...
- 11/2/2021
- by Malina Saval
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: The Lamorne Morris and Jackie Earle Haley movie Death of a Telemarketer has landed at Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions.
The comedy-drama, which also stars Alisha Wainwright, Haley Joel Osment and Woody McClain, won the Fan Favorite Film Award at the American Black Film Festival last year.
Written and directed by recent University of Southern California Cinematic Arts graduate Khaled Ridgeway, Death of a Telemarketer follows a smooth-talking telemarketer (Morris) who finds himself at the mercy of the man he tried to swindle (Earle Haley) and must pass a twisted test on ethics if he wants to live to sell another day.
Matt McGorry, Gil Ozeri, Sujata Day, David So, Ian Verdun, Gwen Gottlieb, and Starletta DuPois round out the cast.
Datari Turner produced the film for Datari Turner Productions along with James J. Yi., and Meagan Good.
EPs are Jeff Friday, Phil Thornton, Leah Daniels-Butler, H.M. Coakley, Seth Gottlieb,...
The comedy-drama, which also stars Alisha Wainwright, Haley Joel Osment and Woody McClain, won the Fan Favorite Film Award at the American Black Film Festival last year.
Written and directed by recent University of Southern California Cinematic Arts graduate Khaled Ridgeway, Death of a Telemarketer follows a smooth-talking telemarketer (Morris) who finds himself at the mercy of the man he tried to swindle (Earle Haley) and must pass a twisted test on ethics if he wants to live to sell another day.
Matt McGorry, Gil Ozeri, Sujata Day, David So, Ian Verdun, Gwen Gottlieb, and Starletta DuPois round out the cast.
Datari Turner produced the film for Datari Turner Productions along with James J. Yi., and Meagan Good.
EPs are Jeff Friday, Phil Thornton, Leah Daniels-Butler, H.M. Coakley, Seth Gottlieb,...
- 10/29/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Jeff Friday Media, the company that organizes the American Black Film Festival, has struck a first-look deal with WarnerMedia.
The two-year exclusive arrangement will give networks including HBO, HBO Max, TBS, TNT, TruTV and CNN access to unscripted content ranging from documentaries, docuseries, and specials to reality TV and awards shows.
It will also give the WarnerMedia networks a first look at all documentary films submitted to the annual American Black Film Festival.
It comes after Jeff Friday Media signed a similar deal with Sony Pictures Entertainment in October 2020 that gives the studio first consideration for narrative feature films submitted to the festival.
HBO is a founding sponsor of the American Black Film Festival, which is now under the Jeff Friday Media banner and celebrates its 25th anniversary in November. The festival has helped launch the careers of Ryan Coogler, Issa Rae, Steven Caple, Jr., and Reinaldo Marcus Green.
The...
The two-year exclusive arrangement will give networks including HBO, HBO Max, TBS, TNT, TruTV and CNN access to unscripted content ranging from documentaries, docuseries, and specials to reality TV and awards shows.
It will also give the WarnerMedia networks a first look at all documentary films submitted to the annual American Black Film Festival.
It comes after Jeff Friday Media signed a similar deal with Sony Pictures Entertainment in October 2020 that gives the studio first consideration for narrative feature films submitted to the festival.
HBO is a founding sponsor of the American Black Film Festival, which is now under the Jeff Friday Media banner and celebrates its 25th anniversary in November. The festival has helped launch the careers of Ryan Coogler, Issa Rae, Steven Caple, Jr., and Reinaldo Marcus Green.
The...
- 10/26/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The 25th American Black Film Festival is shifting from a hybrid to a fully online event, Jeff Friday Media (Jfm) announced today.
The festival, which runs from Nov. 3-14, 2021 will be available digitally on ABFF’s custom-built online platform, abffplay.com, providing artists, filmmakers, movie fans and audiences the opportunity to come together virtually to celebrate ABFF’s 25th year of showcasing the best in Black cinema and television.
“As we were enthusiastically planning our 25th anniversary celebration and return to Miami Beach, we couldn’t ignore the ongoing spread of Covid-19 and now the Delta variant,” Jeff Friday, CEO Jeff Friday Media and founder, ABFF Ventures LLC, said announcing shift.
“Our national health crisis is at the forefront of our minds and we must responsively adapt. For the health and safety of our attendees, supporters and staff, we’ve made the difficult decision to pivot to a virtual event this year,...
The festival, which runs from Nov. 3-14, 2021 will be available digitally on ABFF’s custom-built online platform, abffplay.com, providing artists, filmmakers, movie fans and audiences the opportunity to come together virtually to celebrate ABFF’s 25th year of showcasing the best in Black cinema and television.
“As we were enthusiastically planning our 25th anniversary celebration and return to Miami Beach, we couldn’t ignore the ongoing spread of Covid-19 and now the Delta variant,” Jeff Friday, CEO Jeff Friday Media and founder, ABFF Ventures LLC, said announcing shift.
“Our national health crisis is at the forefront of our minds and we must responsively adapt. For the health and safety of our attendees, supporters and staff, we’ve made the difficult decision to pivot to a virtual event this year,...
- 8/26/2021
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Endeavor Content is teaming up with Layne Eskridge’s Pov Entertainment and Jeff Friday Media to increase diversity in the TV world.
On Friday, the three entities announced a partnership that seeks to develop and produce premium scripted television series from Black and Brown creators. The collaboration intends to expand the range of TV in the current marketplace, while amplifying and uplifting writers and producers of color. Endeavor, Pov and Jeff Friday Media will work with the American Black Film Festival, to tap into its pipeline of promising industry creatives.
The partnership announcement comes shortly after Eskridge’s Pov Entertainment signed an overall deal with Endeavor Content in January, and is a continuation of Jeff Friday Media and ABFF’s longstanding relationship with Endeavor Content.
“Jeff and Layne are incredible collaborators and we hope to activate and amplify creators and storytellers who are doing it on their own,” said Graham Taylor and Chris Rice,...
On Friday, the three entities announced a partnership that seeks to develop and produce premium scripted television series from Black and Brown creators. The collaboration intends to expand the range of TV in the current marketplace, while amplifying and uplifting writers and producers of color. Endeavor, Pov and Jeff Friday Media will work with the American Black Film Festival, to tap into its pipeline of promising industry creatives.
The partnership announcement comes shortly after Eskridge’s Pov Entertainment signed an overall deal with Endeavor Content in January, and is a continuation of Jeff Friday Media and ABFF’s longstanding relationship with Endeavor Content.
“Jeff and Layne are incredible collaborators and we hope to activate and amplify creators and storytellers who are doing it on their own,” said Graham Taylor and Chris Rice,...
- 6/4/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
Endeavor Content, Jeff Friday Media and Layne Eskridge’s Pov Entertainment will partner to develop and produce premium scripted television series by Black and brown creators, accelerating exposure and opportunity for Bipoc writers and producers. To expand the range of television from creatives of color in the current marketplace, the three companies will be collaborating closely with the American Black Film Festival to tap into its industry talent pipeline.
“We are taking a 360 approach to platform the Black and Brown creators who will produce the next wave of shows audiences truly crave. By giving access to the Endeavor Content ecosystem and providing the forum to develop ideas in a thoughtful way we will spur more diversity on and off camera in the television space,” said Pov Entertainment president Eskridge. “I’m excited to work with my fellow Howard University alum Jeff Friday on this, and I’m confident we will...
“We are taking a 360 approach to platform the Black and Brown creators who will produce the next wave of shows audiences truly crave. By giving access to the Endeavor Content ecosystem and providing the forum to develop ideas in a thoughtful way we will spur more diversity on and off camera in the television space,” said Pov Entertainment president Eskridge. “I’m excited to work with my fellow Howard University alum Jeff Friday on this, and I’m confident we will...
- 6/4/2021
- by Mónica Marie Zorrilla
- Variety Film + TV
Film and television producer Will Packer will serve as the jury president for the 2021 American Black Film Festival (ABFF).
The annual festival celebrates its 25th anniversary this year with a hybrid model, with live events held Nov. 3-7 in Miami Beach, Fla., followed by a week of virtual events on abffplay.com (available from Nov. 8-14).
The post marks a homecoming for Packer, who got his start when his independent feature film “Trois,” directed by Rob Hardy, premiered at the festival in 1999.
A longtime supporter of the ABFF, the prolific producer — who has earned more than $1.3 billion at the box office under his Will Packer Productions banner — has served on the festival’s advisory board. Packer has also premiered “Girls Trip,” “Think Like A Man Too,” “This Christmas,” “Takers” and “Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain” during the festival. In 2016, Packer received the Distinguished ABFF Alumni Award at ABFF Honors.
“ABFF...
The annual festival celebrates its 25th anniversary this year with a hybrid model, with live events held Nov. 3-7 in Miami Beach, Fla., followed by a week of virtual events on abffplay.com (available from Nov. 8-14).
The post marks a homecoming for Packer, who got his start when his independent feature film “Trois,” directed by Rob Hardy, premiered at the festival in 1999.
A longtime supporter of the ABFF, the prolific producer — who has earned more than $1.3 billion at the box office under his Will Packer Productions banner — has served on the festival’s advisory board. Packer has also premiered “Girls Trip,” “Think Like A Man Too,” “This Christmas,” “Takers” and “Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain” during the festival. In 2016, Packer received the Distinguished ABFF Alumni Award at ABFF Honors.
“ABFF...
- 3/30/2021
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
ABFF Ventures LLC has launched ABFF Comedy Festival, a spin-off of its long-running American Black Film Festival that is dedicated to supporting emerging Black and Brown comedians and comedy writers. Prolific producer Kenya Barris will serve as the Ambassador for the inaugural comedy fest, which will be a virtual, five-day event that will stream live and pre-recorded content on ABFF Play streaming service from June 2-6.
The fete is an extension of the ABFF comedy sidebar which has given visibility to the biggest names in comedy including Kevin Hart, Cedric The Entertainer, Mike Epps, Rickey Smiley, Craig Robinson, and Jb Smoove. The mission is to be a global stage for the multicultural comedy community and to help propel new generations of diverse artists to stardom by introducing them to the industry-at-large.
The festival will feature four competitions: Stand-Up Performance, Comedy Web Series, Comedy Shorts, and Comedy Podcasts.
The fete is an extension of the ABFF comedy sidebar which has given visibility to the biggest names in comedy including Kevin Hart, Cedric The Entertainer, Mike Epps, Rickey Smiley, Craig Robinson, and Jb Smoove. The mission is to be a global stage for the multicultural comedy community and to help propel new generations of diverse artists to stardom by introducing them to the industry-at-large.
The festival will feature four competitions: Stand-Up Performance, Comedy Web Series, Comedy Shorts, and Comedy Podcasts.
- 1/28/2021
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
The American Black Film Festival and IMDb are teaming up for a special celebration of Black film with a new digital series, titled “Hollywood Homecoming.”
Jeff Friday Media is producing the series, which celebrates “iconic films that showcase Black humanity and provide balanced portrayals of the African American experience,” assembling the film’s director and cast to discuss the project. “Hollywood Homecoming” premieres in February, kicking off Black History Month with the romantic comedy “The Best Man.”
“We created ‘Hollywood Homecoming’ to highlight the indelible impact that Black films have had on American culture,” series creator Jeff Friday said. “Congratulations to Malcolm Lee and ‘The Best Man’s’ incredible cast for creating a movie that’s stood the test of time and proves that ‘Black Films Don’t Crack.’”
In the episode, the film’s director, producer and screenwriter Malcolm D. Lee will be joined by cast members Morris Chestnut,...
Jeff Friday Media is producing the series, which celebrates “iconic films that showcase Black humanity and provide balanced portrayals of the African American experience,” assembling the film’s director and cast to discuss the project. “Hollywood Homecoming” premieres in February, kicking off Black History Month with the romantic comedy “The Best Man.”
“We created ‘Hollywood Homecoming’ to highlight the indelible impact that Black films have had on American culture,” series creator Jeff Friday said. “Congratulations to Malcolm Lee and ‘The Best Man’s’ incredible cast for creating a movie that’s stood the test of time and proves that ‘Black Films Don’t Crack.’”
In the episode, the film’s director, producer and screenwriter Malcolm D. Lee will be joined by cast members Morris Chestnut,...
- 1/14/2021
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Sony Pictures Entertainment (Spe) is changing the game with its latest venture. The studio has revealed that they have inked a unique first-look deal with Jeff Friday Media (Jfm), the newly-formed production house launched by the company CEO Jeff Friday, founder of the annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF), which has become a leading festival and touchstone for Black content creators.
Under the multi-year deal, Sony will be offered first consideration for narrative feature films submitted to the Festival, and year-round access and introductions to emerging filmmakers discovered by Friday. In a time when Hollywood is actively seeking diverse and inclusive voices in front of and behind the camera, the deal will broaden Spe’s pipeline, ushering in the next generation of storytellers, and accelerating exposure and opportunity for filmmaking talent of color. Friday will serve as producer of the original films created by the talent he discovers.
“Diverse...
Under the multi-year deal, Sony will be offered first consideration for narrative feature films submitted to the Festival, and year-round access and introductions to emerging filmmakers discovered by Friday. In a time when Hollywood is actively seeking diverse and inclusive voices in front of and behind the camera, the deal will broaden Spe’s pipeline, ushering in the next generation of storytellers, and accelerating exposure and opportunity for filmmaking talent of color. Friday will serve as producer of the original films created by the talent he discovers.
“Diverse...
- 10/19/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
The virtual Mipcom begins in earnest today and, although the industry is not gathering in Cannes, there is still a glut of news as studios announce sales. Deadline will keep this page updated with some of the day’s most notable deals. Hit refresh for updates. While you’re here, two things worth reading: we spoke to 10 sales chiefs about how the pandemic has changed TV distribution and sat down with Mipcom organizer Laurine Garaude.
‘All Creatures Great And Small’ Sales
All3Media International has clinched a raft of deals for Channel 5 and PBS’s hit drama All Creatures Great And Small. Acorn Media has taken streaming rights in the UK, South and Central America, Ireland and Malta. Other deals include Sky Deutschland, Dr (Denmark), Nrk (Norway), Svt (Sweden), Yleisradio Oy-TV1 (Finland), Filmin (Spain), Viasat World (Cee) and Mtva (Hungary). Produced by Playground Entertainment, the...
‘All Creatures Great And Small’ Sales
All3Media International has clinched a raft of deals for Channel 5 and PBS’s hit drama All Creatures Great And Small. Acorn Media has taken streaming rights in the UK, South and Central America, Ireland and Malta. Other deals include Sky Deutschland, Dr (Denmark), Nrk (Norway), Svt (Sweden), Yleisradio Oy-TV1 (Finland), Filmin (Spain), Viasat World (Cee) and Mtva (Hungary). Produced by Playground Entertainment, the...
- 10/12/2020
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: American Black Film Festival creators/producers Jeff and Nicole Friday have launched ABFF Play, streaming service and digital movie theater platform to showcase Black and Brown content, culture and creativity. The service, which hails from the Friday’s newly formed company Streamland USA LLC, will also host the first virtual edition of ABFF, which kicks off August 21.
The hybrid, ad-supported platform will include VOD rentals of independent films, live-streamed PPV events for stand-up comedy specials, stage plays, concerts, virtual conferences, and online film festivals, as well as free coverage of ABFF events, short films and original content from web series, podcasts, and other branded entertainment.
Its inaugural slate includes the Social Justice Now Film Festival, starting October 21, and the Black Hollywood Comedy Nights a four-part pay-per-view series executive produced by Jeff Friday and hosted by comedian/writer Chris Spencer (Creator of BET’s Real Husbands of Hollywood). Featuring top Black and Brown stand-up comedians,...
The hybrid, ad-supported platform will include VOD rentals of independent films, live-streamed PPV events for stand-up comedy specials, stage plays, concerts, virtual conferences, and online film festivals, as well as free coverage of ABFF events, short films and original content from web series, podcasts, and other branded entertainment.
Its inaugural slate includes the Social Justice Now Film Festival, starting October 21, and the Black Hollywood Comedy Nights a four-part pay-per-view series executive produced by Jeff Friday and hosted by comedian/writer Chris Spencer (Creator of BET’s Real Husbands of Hollywood). Featuring top Black and Brown stand-up comedians,...
- 8/20/2020
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) has set its lineup for the 2020 virtual edition of the fest which runs August 21-30. In addition, IMDb will simulcast The Best of the ABFF Awards Ceremony on its homepage on closing night.
The online fest will bring the energy and magic of the live fest as it spotlights the best of independent Black cinema, studio premieres, conversations and panels, along with virtual networking events. ABFF will also introduce the inaugural John Singleton Award for Best First Feature for a director of African descent.
Of the 90 films featured in this year’s fest, 90% of the submissions are from Black filmmakers, 70% are first time filmmakers and approximately 40% are women.
“The more than 90 films in this year’s festival are the work of a group of powerful and passionate storytellers who reflect the diversity of voices in our industry,” said Jeff Friday, founder and CEO ABFF Ventures.
The online fest will bring the energy and magic of the live fest as it spotlights the best of independent Black cinema, studio premieres, conversations and panels, along with virtual networking events. ABFF will also introduce the inaugural John Singleton Award for Best First Feature for a director of African descent.
Of the 90 films featured in this year’s fest, 90% of the submissions are from Black filmmakers, 70% are first time filmmakers and approximately 40% are women.
“The more than 90 films in this year’s festival are the work of a group of powerful and passionate storytellers who reflect the diversity of voices in our industry,” said Jeff Friday, founder and CEO ABFF Ventures.
- 7/23/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
After postponing its original date from July to October in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic the 24th annual American Black Film Festival (Abff) will now take place online August 21-30 on abff.com. Abff Ventures LLC. announced today that Abff Online Edition will continue the tradition of the live festival, featuring the best of independent black cinema, studio premieres, conversations and panels, the business of entertainment seminars, along with virtual networking events.
In addition, the fest, which is going forward with the theme Community First!, will use its platform for social change in response to the scourge of racial injustice in our country, as well as educate and support its community in an effort to help in its recovery from the coronavirus.
Earlier this year, Abff Ventures CEO Jeff Friday spoke to Deadline about persevering the festival in the amid the health crisis “If we found that the festival...
In addition, the fest, which is going forward with the theme Community First!, will use its platform for social change in response to the scourge of racial injustice in our country, as well as educate and support its community in an effort to help in its recovery from the coronavirus.
Earlier this year, Abff Ventures CEO Jeff Friday spoke to Deadline about persevering the festival in the amid the health crisis “If we found that the festival...
- 6/11/2020
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
In today’s film news roundup, Olivia Wilde’s “Perfect” gets sold, Music Box StreamLocal launches and the American Black Film Festival, Fantaspoa, Greenwich and TCM Classic festivals are all making adjustments to the coronavirus pandemic.
Acquisition
Searchlight Pictures has closed a deal for global rights for $15 million to the gymnastics movie “Perfect,” with Olivia Wilde attached to direct.
The project tells the story of American gymnast Kerri Strug and is based upon her memoir, written with John P. Lopez, “Landing On My Feet, A Diary of Dreams.” The film will follow her career-defining performance at the 1996 Olympics, when the 18-year-old Strug executed her routine on a severely injured ankle to help the gymnastics team to its first gold medal.
Wilde, who directed “Booksmart,” made the presentation at the Berlin Film Festival last month, triggering the bidding war. The script is by Ronnie Sandahl. Nik Bower is producing for Riverstone Pictures...
Acquisition
Searchlight Pictures has closed a deal for global rights for $15 million to the gymnastics movie “Perfect,” with Olivia Wilde attached to direct.
The project tells the story of American gymnast Kerri Strug and is based upon her memoir, written with John P. Lopez, “Landing On My Feet, A Diary of Dreams.” The film will follow her career-defining performance at the 1996 Olympics, when the 18-year-old Strug executed her routine on a severely injured ankle to help the gymnastics team to its first gold medal.
Wilde, who directed “Booksmart,” made the presentation at the Berlin Film Festival last month, triggering the bidding war. The script is by Ronnie Sandahl. Nik Bower is producing for Riverstone Pictures...
- 3/25/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
The 24th annual American Black Film Festival has been pushed back due to the current coronavirus pandemic and will now take place from October 21-25 in Miami.
The festival was originally slated to run June 17-21. Abff Ventures LLC announced Tuesday that the decision was made based on guidance from the Cdc, National Institutes of Health, and with the support of leading sponsors.
“Abff is a destination event that attracts participants from around the world, which is why we made the difficult but necessary decision to postpone the 24th American Black Film Festival,” said Abff Ventures CEO Jeff Friday. “While we remain committed to providing a program for storytellers who rely on Abff to showcase their work,...
The festival was originally slated to run June 17-21. Abff Ventures LLC announced Tuesday that the decision was made based on guidance from the Cdc, National Institutes of Health, and with the support of leading sponsors.
“Abff is a destination event that attracts participants from around the world, which is why we made the difficult but necessary decision to postpone the 24th American Black Film Festival,” said Abff Ventures CEO Jeff Friday. “While we remain committed to providing a program for storytellers who rely on Abff to showcase their work,...
- 3/24/2020
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
The American Black Film Festival (Abff) announced today it would award “Queen & Slim” writer Lena Waithe and Academy Award-winning actor Louis Gossett, Jr. for their outstanding achievements in entertainment at the 2020 Abff Honors on Feb. 23 in Los Angeles.
“We’re honored to celebrate these two extraordinary talents,” Abff Ventures CEO Jeff Friday said. “These awards not only recognize how Mr. Gossett’s contributions have propelled the industry forward but also acknowledge a new generation of trailblazers in people like Ms. Waithe, who will continue to create change and new opportunities in film and television for people of color.”
Waithe will receive the Industry Renaissance Award for writing and developing works that create opportunities for people of color. In 2017, Waithe became the first African American woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Writing in Comedy Series for “Master of None.” Through her company, Hillman Grad productions, Waithe has inked overall...
“We’re honored to celebrate these two extraordinary talents,” Abff Ventures CEO Jeff Friday said. “These awards not only recognize how Mr. Gossett’s contributions have propelled the industry forward but also acknowledge a new generation of trailblazers in people like Ms. Waithe, who will continue to create change and new opportunities in film and television for people of color.”
Waithe will receive the Industry Renaissance Award for writing and developing works that create opportunities for people of color. In 2017, Waithe became the first African American woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Writing in Comedy Series for “Master of None.” Through her company, Hillman Grad productions, Waithe has inked overall...
- 1/7/2020
- by Lorraine Wheat
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: The fourth annual American Black Film Festival (Abff) Honors will bring together the cast and crew of HBO’s critically acclaimed series, The Wire, for a celebration and presentation of this year’s Classic Television Award. In addition, Black-ish/ Grown-ish star and comedian Deon Cole will host the awards ceremony, which will take place on February 23 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
Created by David Simon, The Wire debuted in 2002 and ran for five seasons. The series, which centered around the Baltimore drug scene, helped launch the career of actors such as Idris Elba (Hobbs & Shaw), Dominic West (The Affair), Wendell Pierce (Jack Ryan), Michael K. Williams (Motherless Brooklyn), and Michael B. Jordan (Black Panther).
Cole is fresh off the release of his Netflix comedy special, Deon Cole: Cole Hearted, and continues to pull double duties as Charlie on ABC’s hit series Black-ish, now in its fifth season, and its Freeform spin-off Grown-ish.
Created by David Simon, The Wire debuted in 2002 and ran for five seasons. The series, which centered around the Baltimore drug scene, helped launch the career of actors such as Idris Elba (Hobbs & Shaw), Dominic West (The Affair), Wendell Pierce (Jack Ryan), Michael K. Williams (Motherless Brooklyn), and Michael B. Jordan (Black Panther).
Cole is fresh off the release of his Netflix comedy special, Deon Cole: Cole Hearted, and continues to pull double duties as Charlie on ABC’s hit series Black-ish, now in its fifth season, and its Freeform spin-off Grown-ish.
- 11/19/2019
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
New Girl alum Lamorne Morris, Alisha Wainwright (Shadowhunters: The Mortal Instruments) and Oscar-nominated actors Haley Joel Osment and Jackie Earle Haley has signed on to star in Death of a Telemarketer, and indie comedy-drama from Datari Turner Productions.
The film was written by recent USC Cinematic Arts graduate Khaled Ridgeway, who is also directing. The plot follows a too-slick-for-his-own-good telemarketer (Morris) who finds himself in a life or death circumstance, when he is held hostage at gunpoint for trying to con an middle-aged man (Haley) down on his luck, to win a hunger games-style sales contest at work.
Matt McGorry, Gil Ozeri, Woody McClain, Sujata Day, David So, Ian Verdun, Gwen Gottlieb, and Starletta DuPois also co-star in the pic, which is currently shooting in Los Angeles.
Datari Turner is producing the film alongside James J. Yi and Meagan Good. Turner recently wrapped production on the Netflix film Uncorked, directed...
The film was written by recent USC Cinematic Arts graduate Khaled Ridgeway, who is also directing. The plot follows a too-slick-for-his-own-good telemarketer (Morris) who finds himself in a life or death circumstance, when he is held hostage at gunpoint for trying to con an middle-aged man (Haley) down on his luck, to win a hunger games-style sales contest at work.
Matt McGorry, Gil Ozeri, Woody McClain, Sujata Day, David So, Ian Verdun, Gwen Gottlieb, and Starletta DuPois also co-star in the pic, which is currently shooting in Los Angeles.
Datari Turner is producing the film alongside James J. Yi and Meagan Good. Turner recently wrapped production on the Netflix film Uncorked, directed...
- 9/11/2019
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
HBO has greenlit “Storm Over Brooklyn,” from Muta’Ali (pictured), and which was the winner of a new initiative to promote diversity in feature documentaries. The project will tell the story of Yusuf Hawkins, a black teenager who was shot and murdered in 1989 after being trapped by a group of white youths in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn.
Muta’Ali’s film will explore a crime that shocked New York and the wider U.S. Hawkins’ murder led to marches and protests that contributed to the ousting of New York City Mayor Ed Koch in favour of David Dinkins, who became the city’s first — and as of now, only — African American mayor.
“Yusuf Hawkins’ murder had a major effect on the public, and the locked away regret and sorrow questions a history that those involved have held onto for nearly 30 years,” Muta’Ali said. “We will finally see the light of day...
Muta’Ali’s film will explore a crime that shocked New York and the wider U.S. Hawkins’ murder led to marches and protests that contributed to the ousting of New York City Mayor Ed Koch in favour of David Dinkins, who became the city’s first — and as of now, only — African American mayor.
“Yusuf Hawkins’ murder had a major effect on the public, and the locked away regret and sorrow questions a history that those involved have held onto for nearly 30 years,” Muta’Ali said. “We will finally see the light of day...
- 6/18/2018
- by Stewart Clarke
- Variety Film + TV
HBO has come on board a feature documentary about a black American teenager shot to death by a group of white youths in 1989. The premium broadcaster has greenlit Storm Over Brooklyn, directed by Muta’Ali and produced by Lightbox, the U.S./UK firm behind Netflix series Captive.
Storm Over Brooklyn won the inaugural Feature Documentary Initiative, created by Lightbox and the American Black Film Festival (Abff), as part of a joint initiative to foster diversity in feature docs.
The doc tells the story of Yusuf Hawkins, a black American teenager who was shot and murdered after being trapped by a group of white youths in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, on the evening of August 23, 1989. Sixteen-year- old Hawkins had come to Bensonhurst with three friends to look at a used car when they were attacked by the mob, whose members mistakenly believed that Hawkins was dating a neighbourhood girl who was white.
Storm Over Brooklyn won the inaugural Feature Documentary Initiative, created by Lightbox and the American Black Film Festival (Abff), as part of a joint initiative to foster diversity in feature docs.
The doc tells the story of Yusuf Hawkins, a black American teenager who was shot and murdered after being trapped by a group of white youths in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, on the evening of August 23, 1989. Sixteen-year- old Hawkins had come to Bensonhurst with three friends to look at a used car when they were attacked by the mob, whose members mistakenly believed that Hawkins was dating a neighbourhood girl who was white.
- 6/18/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Miami — “Superfly” star Trevor Jackson wasn’t sure that he would land the starring role of the latest Hollywood remake.
“I really wanted to be a part of this film,” said Jackson. “I auditioned twice, but I was told I was too young and I didn’t have a big enough name. I was [later] invited to [producer] Joel SIlver’s house, and I was told I got the role.”
Based off of 1972 film “Super Fly” directed by Gordon Parks, Jr., the 2018 feature is about a young successful drug dealer, named Priest (Jackson), who is ready to get out of the game. He lines things up for one final score that could retire him, but things go terribly wrong and now his loved ones are in danger.
Jackson, whose acting credits include ABC’s “grown-ish” and “American Crime,” joined “Superfly” filmmaker Director X and the rest of the cast in Miami Beach,...
“I really wanted to be a part of this film,” said Jackson. “I auditioned twice, but I was told I was too young and I didn’t have a big enough name. I was [later] invited to [producer] Joel SIlver’s house, and I was told I got the role.”
Based off of 1972 film “Super Fly” directed by Gordon Parks, Jr., the 2018 feature is about a young successful drug dealer, named Priest (Jackson), who is ready to get out of the game. He lines things up for one final score that could retire him, but things go terribly wrong and now his loved ones are in danger.
Jackson, whose acting credits include ABC’s “grown-ish” and “American Crime,” joined “Superfly” filmmaker Director X and the rest of the cast in Miami Beach,...
- 6/14/2018
- by Clayton Gutzmore
- Variety Film + TV
The 2018 American Black Film Festival will open with the premiere screening of “Superfly” on June 13 at the Fillmore Theater in Miami Beach, Fla., Variety has learned exclusively.
Sony Pictures is opening the title nationwide on the same date to get a two-day jump on Disney and Pixar’s “Incredibles 2.”
“Superfly” is directed by Director X in his feature film debut from Alex Tse’s script. It stars Trevor Jackson, Jason Mitchell, Michael Kenneth Williams, Lex Scott Davis, and Jennifer Morrison.
The original 1972 “Super Fly” starred Ron O’Neal as a cocaine dealer who is trying to quit the underworld drug business. Directed by Gordon Parks, the $500,000 film was massively profitable with box office of $30 million.
“We are thrilled ‘Superfly’ will be the opening night film at the 2018 Abff,” CEO Jeff Friday said. “For many, the title resonates as a cultural touchstone, not only for the look and style of the film itself,...
Sony Pictures is opening the title nationwide on the same date to get a two-day jump on Disney and Pixar’s “Incredibles 2.”
“Superfly” is directed by Director X in his feature film debut from Alex Tse’s script. It stars Trevor Jackson, Jason Mitchell, Michael Kenneth Williams, Lex Scott Davis, and Jennifer Morrison.
The original 1972 “Super Fly” starred Ron O’Neal as a cocaine dealer who is trying to quit the underworld drug business. Directed by Gordon Parks, the $500,000 film was massively profitable with box office of $30 million.
“We are thrilled ‘Superfly’ will be the opening night film at the 2018 Abff,” CEO Jeff Friday said. “For many, the title resonates as a cultural touchstone, not only for the look and style of the film itself,...
- 5/29/2018
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
This comes as quite a surprise, given that the festival just celebrated its 2nd year in New York City, after a move from Miami, where it had been up until last year's edition. No specific reasons have been given - at least not in the press release I received today; but I assume festival founder Jeff Friday will probably address it publicly eventually - even if it's at next year's event, during his annual opening night speech. Maybe the popular phrase, "get in where you fit in," is applicable here. New York is teeming with film festivals of all kinds, and there's so much else (beyond film festivals) to compete with in such a bustling, large city. Making the festival more of a...
- 8/11/2015
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
The founder of the American Black Film Festival is speaking out about Hollywood’s longstanding trend of whitewashing historically ethnic parts in movies. Specifically citing December’s controversial Ridley Scott film “Exodus: Gods and Kings,” in which Christian Bale and Joel Edgerton played biblical figures Moses and Ramses while non-white actors played slaves and servants, Abff founder Jeff Friday says he understands both the outrage and the decision to cast those stars. “I see both sides of that. If you want to tell a true story, they should not have been all white actors,” Friday said on radio personality Sway’s SirusXM show on Monday.
- 6/9/2015
- by Matt Donnelly
- The Wrap
Rick Famuyiwa’s buzzy "Dope" will open the 19th annual American Black Film Festival (Abff) on Thursday, June 11, at the Sva Theatre, 333 West 23rd Street, NYC, the movie's New York City premiere. “'Dope' couldn’t be a more fitting film to open the festival. Rick Famuyiwa has taken a classic genre and told a unique story within it, combining all the elements that make a great film–outstanding writing, directing, cast and music. Our audience will truly enjoy the journey,” said Abff CEO and Founder Jeff Friday. The screening will be sponsored by the Motion Picture Association of America. “We are excited to continue enhancing our ongoing partnership with the...
- 5/19/2015
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
“Empire” star and Oscar nominee Taraji P. Henson has been selected as the 2015 American Black Film Festival’s (Abff) celebrity ambassador, the Abff announced Wednesday. An actress and producer, Henson’s notable roles include Yvette in “Baby Boy,” Shug in “Hustle and Flow,” and Queenie in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” for which she was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Henson also co-starred in the CBS drama “Person of Interest” and currently stars on the hit Fox musical drama series, “Empire.” Also Read: The Shonda Effect: 16 Shows That Champion Diversity (Photos) “I want to thank Jeff Friday and.
- 3/4/2015
- by Joe Otterson
- The Wrap
It's a good year to be Taraji P. Henson, headlining a surprise hit TV series that only continues to surprise to the upside, and lots of press around her character and performance, which is always a good thing - when you're at the center of numerous conversations. The Oscar-nominated actress will wear a different hat later this year, as the American Black Film Festival (Abff) announced today that Ms Henson will be the 2015 celebrity ambassador, for what will be its 19th edition, set for June 11-14, 2015, in New York City at the New York Hilton, AMC Empire 25 and the historic Ziegfeld Theater. "I want to thank Jeff Friday and...
- 3/4/2015
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
A new partnership between 2 institutions I'm sure you're all very familiar with... details via press release below: Black Enterprise (Be) President and CEO Earl "Butch" Graves Jr. and Film Life Inc. Founder and CEO Jeff Friday are announcing a new joint venture, representing a partnership between two prominent black-owned media and event companies with powerful brands, each with legacies of showcasing the best of African American culture and achievement. Black Enterprise and Film Life Inc. have formed Abff Ventures, an equity partnership to produce the American Black Film Festival (Abff), the Abff Honors (formerly the Black Movie Awards) and other events and...
- 12/4/2014
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
Film Life, Inc has set dates for the 19th annual American Black Film Festival (Abff), which will take place in New York City, running from June 11-14, 2015, at the New York Hilton Midtown and AMC Empire 25 Theater. The four-day festival is expanding its programming to include a TV Writers Workshop, Network Expo, and case studies of popular current television shows. "With the renewed prestige of mainstream television and the proliferation of multi-platform distribution, the Abff will now feature more television-related content that networks can draw on to connect with and promote programming to African American viewers," said Jeff Friday,...
- 11/21/2014
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
Film Life has announced a call for entries for exceptional narrative feature and documentary films made by or about people of African descent for consideration for the 2014 edition of the annual American Black Film Festival - Abff, which is scheduled to take place in NYC, next June 19-22. “2013 has certainly been a tremendous year in Black cinema, providing great inspiration for Black artists. We are looking forward to the promise of even more original and dynamic work to emerge on the independent front in 2014,” states Jeff Friday, Abff founder and CEO of Film. Films submitted must have been completed after January 1, 2013. Documentaries...
- 12/17/2013
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
Change is in the air for one of the country's most prominent black film festivals - The American Black Film Festival. Festival director Jeff Friday officially confirmed a previously leaked story - via a letter sent out to festival supporters and alumni yesterday - that the festival will be moving from its current South Beach Miami location, to the mecca of independent cinema, New York City! The move is already in effect, as the 2014 installment of the festival will take place in New York, marking the Abff's 18th year. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support; without you, we would not stand today as one of the leading film festivals in the world,"...
- 10/30/2013
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
Following up on Jeff Friday’s exclusive piece for us last week about the importance and relevance of black film festivals (Here), and a conversation I had on this very subject about the Cannes Film Festival and black filmmaker this past weekend, with a close friend of mine, I decided to revise and expand on a piece I wrote for S & A over two years ago. Why aren’t we at Cannes? We, meaning African-American filmmakers. But let me back up for a second… Several commenters to Friday’s piece responded that the only film festivals that really matter to filmmakers are those that are also film markets such as Cannes, Toronto or Sundance. Festivals where...
- 1/28/2013
- by Sergio
- ShadowAndAct
Vanessa will be covering the festival for S&A, so look out for all her writeups over the next 3 days (she doesn't get there until tomorrow). Those who are already there, or going to be there, enjoy! As for the rest of you... in case you didn't already know... the specifics: The 16th Annual American Black Film Festival kicks off in Miami Beach, Fl tonight, with Beasts Of The Southern Wild as the opening night film. Known as Black Cinema's Annual Retreat, the festival will run from June 20 - 23. Jeff Friday, Abff's, Founder, announced that actress Tracee Ellis Ross will serve as this year's festival Ambassador. Other highlights include A...
- 6/20/2012
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
The American Black Film Festival, which runs from June 20 - 23 in South Beach, Fl, has unveiled new details, revealed by Abff's founder Jeff Friday via teleconference this afternoon. To recap, some of the highlights of the festival include the opening night film Beasts of The Southern Wild, A Conversation with Salim & Mara Brock Akil, Abff Celebrates Think Like A Man with the producers and director of the film, Black Women in Hollywood Panel featuring actresses, casting directors and producers, and the HBO Short Film Competition. Tracee Ellis Ross will serve as this year's festival Ambassador; past honorees include Sanaa Lathan and Anthony Mackie. Mekhi Phifer...
- 6/13/2012
- by Vanessa Martinez
- ShadowAndAct
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