2024 FILM SELECTIONS
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR FILMMAKERS WHO WERE SELECTED IN THIS YEARS SAN FRANCISCO BLACK FILM FESTIVAL
2025 FEATURE FILMS
THURSDAY
JUNE 19, 2025
Strange Fruit: The Hip-hopera Short Film "Hear the Cry”
The story of Lashelle Robinson journeying to the Antebellum South to confront her disturbing, mixed-race family history is ultimately the story of racial reconciliation. It is a story that explores the impact of slavery on America today. Right now, our country is in the middle of a social revolution expressed through civil unrest. The nation’s current racial divide is symbolized by Todd and LaShelle’s forbidden marriage. In order for them to make it down the aisle, and for us to progress as a people, we must go back to a past steeped in prejudice. LaShelle’s journey back into her haunted history represents America’s return to its roots.
A FILM BY: MAROLON JONES & DYNEESHA MOORE
Real art is created by "artists"... and even though the market is flooded with tons of content, there is still room for MJ's bold and unique voice. Marlon Jones "MJ" is a film Director from New York and is currently located in Los Angeles. Mr. Jones believes that it is possible to create content that leaves a lasting impact on audiences while simultaneously entertaining them.
MJ is a filmmaker with a distinctive vision and by his own admission he's a filmmaker with"integrity and an edge". With over 20 years of Film/TV experience, MJ excels in every stage of filmmaking. Marlon is also an Emmy Award-Winning Editor. The ability to execute both on-set in production, as well as in post-production makes MJ the"total package". All in all, the greatest asset that MJ possesses is his commitment to excellence and the willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done.
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom."
In a surreal San Francisco where urban legends exist, a young woman on a date is stalked by an infamous serial killer terrorizing Vibeland and the greater Bay Area
A FILM BY:
ALEXI PAPALEXOPOULOS
Alexi is a filmmaker, photographer and musician born and raised in San Francisco, living Los Angeles. A graduate of the USC School of Cinematic Arts (2012), Alexi started his career as a music video director- shooting dozens of videos for internationally acclaimed recording artists. He is a childhood friend and frequent collaborator with Vibeland's creator Rodrigo Williams
If We Don't Work
Activist James Richards is an icon of the Bayview Hunters Point neighborhood. For 80 years, he has fought steadfastly to provide his community with what they urgently need: jobs. As a leader of the Aboriginal Blackman United (ABU)—whose slogan is “If we don’t work, don’t nobody work”—Richards has been behind decades of protests at discriminatory worksites around Bayview Hunters Point. His commitment has led to important legislative victories that created mandatory local hire requirements, that have led to job opportunities that either previously didn’t exist or had been withheld from the community. For his 80th birthday, we’ve gathered his friends, fellow community leaders, and San Francisco officials to reflect on his legacy and lasting influence on workforce development in the city.
A FILM BY: KEVIN EPPS
Kevin Epps is a notable Indie documentary film director, recognized for his contributions to the genre of independent films, particularly focusing on urban African-American neighborhoods. He gained national attention with his debut film “Straight Outta Hunters Point” in 2003, followed by other projects like “Rap Dreams” (2006), “The Black Rock” (2009), and “Straight Outta Hunters Point 2” (2012). He has also produced and collaborated with National Geographic, The Discovery Channel, and Current TV. His works often delve into the culture, sociology, and history of these communities, showcasing gritty realities and aspirations.
FRIDAY
JUNE 20, 2025
I Hate My Love Life
After years of bickering, a well-seasoned married couple decide to go on dates with other people to see if the grass is really greener on the other side; only to find out they are not prepared for the woes of new-age dating
A FILM BY: TIFFANY JACKMAN
Tiffany Jackman is a Guyanese-American, award winning director with a broad range of media experience including commercials and independent films. After graduating from NYU’s Film and Television program, Tiffany started her career as an Ad Agency producer making broadcast commercials and other content for many large brands. All while creating her own content; including web series, short films, feature films and TV shows. Her projects premiered at prominent film festivals and were distributed by studios like HBO, Amazon and Tubi. She launched her own production company, Tiffyjack Productions in 2018 that offers commercial and film production from inception to launch for clients of all sizes.
if(fy)
Ifeanyi has been planning his first move; he just needs an in. Or maybe an unobstructed view. His intentions are dubious but pure. He swears! After getting a pity-invite, he finally gets the chance he’s been waiting for. But will it be too late? if(fy) explores the idea that the rules dictating our morality are re-written in the presence of things we want more; and how our outer face often masks an inner struggle to navigate our fears.
A FILM BY:
LESÉGO VORSTER, ROSS LELLIOTT, & OSIOKEH IKHARO
Writer // Producer // Sound Director
Osiokeh Ikharo (Ōce-yō-keh Ē-khä-rōh) is a Los Angeles-based Nigerian-American filmmaker and screenwriter with an abiding love for animation. A love which motivated her to move to Japan as an Assistant Language Teacher and craft narratives while pretending to make lesson plans. Her stories are infused with heart; centered around emotionally flawed but ultimately sympathetic characters who often struggle to relate to the world around them. In telling the story of if(fy), it was important to Osiokeh to partner with Black creatives to lend further authenticity to her characters. As a graduate from UC Berkeley in both African-American Studies and Mass Communications she believes that truly diverse storytelling can only happen if we diversify the talents that go into creating them. Everything else is blackface.
Chief Animation Supervisor // Animation Director
Lesego Vorster is best known for creating and directing the “You Give Me Heart” short in the award winning Disney+ Afro-futurist animated anthology series Kizazi Moto. However, as one of the co-founders of the Johannesburg-based animation production company, The Hidden Hand Studios, Vorster has long been the face of rising artistic talent from the continent. A position he does not take lightly. Lesego considers himself a teacher at heart, and with his creative partner Ross Lelliott they use their studio as a pipeline to access African talent and as a training ground to further develop Johannesburg as a hub of Black animation.
Lead Animator // Assistant Director
Ross Lelliott, as the other founding-half of the South Africa based production company, The Hidden Hand Studios, champions art in all its forms. He has a particular affinity for 2D animation but is a well-rounded creative with talents spanning digital painting, storyboarding, layout, background & landscape painting, graphic design and illustration. Through his work on Genndy Tartakovsky’s Emmy Award winning animated series, Primal, along with the development of the Super Scientist initiative, Ross gained a renewed appreciation for the value of African talent to the animation industry as a whole. He’s committed making sure Black creatives are further incorporated into every stage of the storytelling process, starting with the work he’s doing at THHS.
Soul of the City
In Leimert Park, Los Angeles, Chris, a rehabilitated pedicab driver and his female passenger, Jasmine, receive a stark reminder that, despite your good intentions in life, judgment can haunt you anywhere.
A FILM BY: ROGER MELVIN
Roger Melvin (DGA) began his career as an assistant director in feature films. From there he stepped into the director's chair and now has feature films, television, and documentary content under his belt. As a director in a field of people all trying to stand out, his relentless work ethic and "get it done" attitude is how he distinguishes himself.
He has created content for major television and streaming networks with clients ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. His ability to meet each challenge fully and provide the same level of excellence is his philosophy.
Paired with his unique and diverse lens, he is able to produce content that not only measures up but reaches out to the culture and heart.
The Word
In THE WORD, billionaires decide to give African American's reparations for slavery...bit there's a catch.
A FILM BY: ROB M NEILSON
Rob fled his homeland of NYC upon Mike Bloomberg banning 72oz mountain dew's and landed in Houston Texas with the aim to gain employment as a sweaty southern lawyer.
Lacking any credentials to do so, he instead founded his production company Savage Henry Films. When not producing propaganda for large corporations he works as a freelance DP, enjoys writing "Who's the Boss" fan fiction, and educating his daughter in the ways of the Bene Gesserit.
Break A Leg
A struggling actor is thrown into the role of a lifetime, when an unconventional exercise places him in the middle of an extortion plot.
A FILM BY: THOMAS J. COOKSEY
Thomas J. Cooksey is a Harlem-born film director with a B.A. in Media Production from The State University at Buffalo, establishing himself as a creative force in cinema. Initially focused on television production, he discovered a passion for filmmaking, immersing himself in online resources, books, and hands-on experience to master the craft. His deep connection to film led him to co-found Reel Deal Digital, where he brings his vision to life.
With over a decade of experience teaching film, editing, and audio/music production for the City of New York, Thomas is dedicated to empowering the next generation of filmmakers. His work has been recognized at esteemed film festivals, including the Seattle Black Film Festival, Bronze Lens Film Festival, and the Pan African Film Festival. Driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence, he aims to challenge norms and inspire contemplation through the art of film.
Overcomer
A self-conscious woman with a striking scar battles anxiety when an online job interview is switched to an in-person one.
A FILM BY: OLAWALE ADETULA
Wale is a Nigerian writer-director based in Hampshire, UK. His award-winning films have screened at over 20 international festivals, including Academy Award, BAFTA, and BIFA qualifying events.
Wale’s 2024 short film Yam and Egg premiered at the Crystal Palace International Film Festival, while his debut short Overcomer premiered at the Seattle Black Film Festival and has since been selected by multiple festivals, including the prestigious Palm Springs ShortFest. His latest project, Love, Dad, stars BAFTA-nominated actor Cyril Nri and continues Wale’s focus on intimate, character-driven narratives.
In addition to directing, Wale produced the 2023 Netflix original series Ololade, which debuted at #1 on Netflix Nigeria and ranked in the top 10 across 12 countries. He is also a co-founder of Helium Films, a production company dedicated to supporting emerging voices. He is currently developing his debut feature film.
FORever feroshUS
Shae, a man murdered in a homophobic attack, awakens in a mysterious room where the entirety of his life is projected across a series of screens. As he journeys through these memories, he must reach the final screen to uncover the truth about his death. But to get there, he must make peace with the life he’s lived.
This film is an homage to O’Shae Sibley.
A FILM BY: NAYA RYAN RASHAD
I first found creative freedom through writing in the otherwise conservative environment of rural Tennessee. I was a young trans kid without the language to express myself or the awareness of how I craved to be seen.
Writing started as a solitary practice for me, but it grew as I found community. My first taste of storytelling in community was the theater. After moving to San Francisco, I sought to reconnect with myself. I became a children’s author who then transitioned into a screenwriter, when I discovered the power of a script.
With support from the Queer Women of Color Media Arts Project, I directed a short film. I realized a deep passion for co-creating spaces for marginalized voices to be seen and heard. I am driven to tell the stories on the fringes of society, and to highlight these communities with care and authenticity.
Getcho
A tightly wound but promising Ivy League graduate has moved back in with her disappointed mother in their section 8 apartment and is forced to babysit a peculiar and precocious child and consequently help him manage his bullies and her own.
A FILM BY: ASHLEY TYLER
Ashley Tyler is a Chicago based writer and director. Her work speaks to the lived experiences of Black people. Professionally, Ashley has worked with Free Spirit Media, participating in their Industry Pathways Cohort program. Her short film script, ‘My Name Is’, was selected as runner up in Free Spirit’s annual pitch competition. She also developed a narrative short titled ‘Betts’ while participating in the University of Chicago Production Institute and Community Film Workshop. Currently, Ashley is developing a feature documentary on the legacy of the Black Coptic Church in America.
Baldy The Film
In this heartfelt dramedy, we meet Travis, a New Yorker whose receding hairline mirrors the distant memories of his childhood. As he navigates the vibrant chaos before his birthday on a night out, he's haunted by looming thoughts. He has a great network of family and friends around him, but Travis doesn’t know how to open up about his hair loss.
A FILM BY: EDDIE GRIFFITH
Eddie Griffith, Brooklyn-born Filmmaker has always had a passion for storytelling. The journey started in High School when he directed a video exhibit featured at the Brooklyn Museum and continued with several web series episodes while working as a Director Guild of America Assistant Director.
SATURDAY
JUNE 21, 2025
Where We Goin?: The Power of Place
Devin Boss is on a quest. And he wants you to join him as he explores this simple question: Where We Goin?
A millennial Black filmmaker and artist raised in the heart of the whitest city in America, Portland, OR, Boss ventures out to uncover the deeper truths that have shaped not just his city — but his very identity.
Boss invites us all along for the ride as he explores the work of Black creatives, cultural stewards and changemakers - past and present - snatching the narratives back, about community resilience and innovation as he examines his roots, to dream of what’s next for him, and all the future ancestors.
This episode finds Boss linking with multidisciplinary artist, Intisar Abioto of Memphis, TN to discuss her groundbreaking curation of 69 Pacific Northwest creatives at Oregon’s largest museum. The pair then connect with the folks powering the largest restorative re-development effort in the country, Albina Vision, as they rebuild the gentrifying epicenter of Portland’s vibrant Black community.
A FILM BY: DEVIN BOSS
Devin Boss, born and raised in Northeast Portland, is a founder, cinematographer, and award-winning director. As the owner of North East Productions, he creates documentaries and short films that explore culture and the profoundly complex lives of individuals. With a rebellious spirit and a deep love for Blackness, his storytelling pushes boundaries, challenges conventions, and inspires fresh perspectives. His work focuses on identity and subjective experience, finding purpose in the places most forget to look and embracing imperfections in the fervent pursuit of raw emotion and authenticity.
BELIEF
Alongside his wife and daughter, Lennox joyously unpacks their new home but is left speechless when he finds a letter in a moving box labelled 'mom' that predestines a different life for him – it’s not as he remembers.
A FILM BY: CHRISTIAN LOUBEK
For Filmmakers Erika Hamilton & Christian Loubek, storytelling took another level of growth with the reckoning in a post-George Floyd world. Suddenly their blissful bi-racial, love story faced headwinds and the uninvited obstacles provided fertile ground for their art.
Erika's first film OUT OF TUNE is an awkwardly personal story about a proud Black woman who hides her love for the classic rock bank Journey. A fun and poignant take on the boundaries of racial identity, her script took Gold at the International Page Screenwriting Awards and is currently being developed into a television series. Erika conceived, wrote & played the lead in OUT OF TUNE and Christian served as EP.
Their second film BELIEF is tribute to the transcendent power of mothers. It is an emotionally resonant story that recontextualizes a mother’s strength and sacrifice. According to Movie Blogger, ‘A mother’s journey has never been this essential’. It marks the first-time Christian has ever written and directed a film of his own telling. Naturally he found inspiration in the strength and sacrifice of Erika after she gave birth to their children. Erika served as the lead actress and producer.
Are WE Beautiful?
"Are WE Beautiful?” is an exploration of the way societal views affect the Black self-image. Told through a series of interviews with real New Yorkers of different ages, and gender expressions exploring and discussing the titular question: are we beautiful?
A FILM BY: TIARRA SMITH
Tiarra Smith is a 26 year old Writer, Director, and Producer based in New York. She graduated from Queens College with a degree in Sociology with a focus in film production in 2021. Since graduation she has gone on to crowdfund to fund her first two films. She is passionate about telling stories from perspectives that are often seen as “other”.
SATURDAY
An introverted teenager, navigating his repressed anger about his parent’s divorce, spends the day with his father until an impromptu visit to his estranged grandfather gives him life-changing insight.
A FILM BY: RAZZAAQ BOYKIN
Razzaaq Boykin is a director-writer raised in Elmont Long Island, NY, and has worked in entertainment for over 15 years. Influenced by science fiction and comic books, he is interested in making unconventional coming-of-age stories that explore themes of dysfunction, family, morality, and manhood. A graduate of the American Film Institute Conservatory in Directing, Razzaaq’s thesis film ‘The Portrait’, a modern adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray with an all-black cast, is currently playing on the film festival circuit. His film “SATURDAY” recently received a microgrant through the Disney Launchpad/ AFI Conservatory Underrepresented Storytellers Initiative. SATURDAY, inspired by his teenage years, explores manhood and the complexities of family through three generations of black men.
Bam Bam: The Sister Nancy Story
The hit song “Bam Bam” has long held the status of an anthem in the reggae genre and is one of the most sampled vocals ever. Lesser known is the story behind the song and, even more so, the woman behind the voice.
In Bam Bam: The Sister Nancy Story, award-winning filmmaker Alison Duke combines dynamic tour performances; insightful interviews with industry figures like Janelle Monae, Young Guru, and Pete Rock; and archival footage of the early dancehall scene to create a fun and thoughtful film illustrating Sister Nancy’s enduring prominence in reggae and hip hop. Entertaining and empowering,
Sister Nancy’s story proves that great music overcomes obstacles and that staying true to oneself is the key to success — both in the music industry and in life.
A FILM BY: ALISON DUKE
Alison Duke (writer, producer, director). Feature debut: Raising Kane: A Rapumentary (HBO Award). Co-founder of award-winning OYA Media Group. Recent credits: Black Community Mixtapes, Paid in Full for Idris Elba’s Green Door Pictures, and Bam Bam: The Sister Nancy Story (Tribeca ‘24) cementing her reputation as the #queenofmusicdocs.'
She also produced and co-wrote the feature doc, "A Mother Apart," which won the top 3 audience award at 2024 Hotdocs and Best Feature, among other prizes at the InsideOUT film festival. She was an additional writer on the "Any Other Way: the Jackie Shane Story," which has won numerous awards.
The African You
A childhood incantation catapults a Black businesswoman into an alternate reality where her African heritage was never disrupted.
A FILM BY: MORGEN A. WHITEMAN
Morgen A. Whiteman is a director and screenwriter with a background as a filmmaker-in-residence in Ghana, a Stowe Story Labs finalist for the SAGIndie’s Top Emerging Filmmaker of Color Fellowship, and a fellow of WIFV DC’s Narrative Script Development Fellowship. She holds a Directing M.F.A. from the AFI Conservatory, and her films have been featured as official selections at numerous film festivals. Most recently, Morgen completed the Alliance of Women Directors 2024 Rising Directors Fellowship.
NATIVES Episodes 1 and 2
NATIVES follows a group of unapologetic, queer, native New Yorkers navigating adulting in the projects of NYC.
Episode 1 Synopsis: (0:00-20:20)
Look what the cat dragged in. Izzy is spotted back on the streets of NYC after burning bridges in LA. Can he get back into good graces with his crew even though he ghosted them?
Episode 2 Synopsis: (20:21-37:04)
It’s Kai’s mom’s birthday, and Izzy must decide if he’ll show up for his friend or get distracted by Adrian, a messy cutie from his new job.
A FILM BY: BRITTANY FRANKLIN
Brittany Franklin, affectionately known as Britt, is an impact-driven Writer/Director, award-winning producer, and organizer. With a passion for equity, she founded Minorities in Film (MiFILM) in 2020, dedicated to empowering marginalized communities through media representation. Britt's work has been recognized with prestigious accolades, including the 2021 Sundance Uprising Grant Fund, Shondaland Women Directors Finalist, and the Barbara and Carl Zydney Grant for Artists with Disabilities. Her journey as a filmmaker has been featured in I-D magazine, where she showcased her commitment to challenging harmful depictions and amplifying underrepresented voices.
Born hearing and now proudly Hard of Hearing, Britt's narratives often explore themes of identity, trauma, and belonging. Brittany's creative aesthetic is marked by its moody atmospheres, surreal imagery, and dark humor, crafting narratives that delve into the depths of human experience with an unapologetic edge.
When she’s not working (which is rare these days), you can find her geeking over anime, spending time with her brothers, and figuring out how to make the perfect loaf of bread.
SHELLE
A coming of age story about a young girl named Michelle who is involved in a tragic house fire caused by a match. With her parents killed in a car explosion the very same night 9 years later her and her brother are left in guardianship of their strict Uncle. Going through life as a burn victim Michelle is forced to accept her biggest flaw ultimately activating an unexpected power.
A FILM BY: KAMAL ANI-BELLO
Kamal began his career in the entertainment industry at the age of thirteen, initially gaining recognition as a child actor in various short films, commercials, and notable projects such as Moonlight, David Makes Man, and McDonald's campaigns. Following his time in front of the camera, he was presented with the opportunity to work as a personal assistant to director Jamal Hill on a feature film, an experience that inspired him to pursue a deeper understanding of filmmaking. This led him to work as a production assistant on several sets, honing his skills behind the scenes. His hands-on experience ultimately culminated in the creation of his first short film, Pound Cake, followed by his current sci-fi project, SHELLE.
As You Are
A young queer girl is forced to learn the true meaning of self acceptance and love after an unfortunate event at her church.
A FILM BY: DARIA STRACHAN
Daria Strachan is a student at Loyola Marymount University’s School of Film and Television, majoring in Film and TV Production (Class of 2028). As an LGBTQ Black woman, she understands the importance of representation and the impact that seeing yourself represented in film can have on your development. She strives to change the film industry (and the greater world) for the better by giving a voice to underrepresented communities, ensuring that everyone has a chance to be seen and heard.
Kofi
While Kofi throws a birthday party for his child, an old “friend” arrives to urgently call in an old debt steeped in loyalty and sacrifice — one which threatens to lead Kofi back to a life he’s worked hard to leave behind.
A FILM BY: MARIANNA PHUNG
Marianna Phung is a Toronto-based director, who strives to tell bold and original stories that give the underrepresented and marginalized a voice. She makes a conscious effort to establish inclusive sets - in front of the c
amera and behind. She is an emerging filmmaker whose mission is to break boundaries and challenge the status quo while telling stories that entertain and enlighten audiences.
Her episodic TV work includes Ezra (OUTtv) and the second season of Pillow Talk (Crave). She won Best Director at Toronto’s 48hr Film Challenge for her short “May Flowers” and Best International Short Film at the Houston Comedy Film Festival for her short “Cranberry Flirt”. She has directed national TV Commercials for major brands including; Bud Light, Gillette, RBC and WestJet.
Don't Hang Up
In rural Hayti, Missouri, matriarch Elizabeth Holiday confronts her past when an unexpected call from her former student, Jeremy, disrupts her routine. As they navigate their shared history and the challenges of their community, they're forced to confront harsh realities, igniting a journey of reconciliation and redemption.
A FILM BY: DIAMOND BATISTE
Diamond Batiste is a director, writer, producer, and founder of DiamondBFilms productions who has been responsible for viral videos garnering BILLIONS of views. He has directed celebrities such as Janet Jackson, Nick Cannon, Terry Crews, Tiffany Haddish, Cam Newton, Jennifer Lopez, Quincy Combs (Bad Boy records), Metta World Peace (NBA Laker Champion), Mike Beach (Soul Food, Waiting to Exhale, and Sons of Anarchy), Amber Rose (Model, Socialite). In addition, Diamond Batiste has directed several social media influencers with a total reach (following) of over 100 million. He is also a United States Army Veteran and graduated from Chapman University earning his MFA in the directing program.
Additionally, Diamond has gained prowess as an expert of social media’s influence in the entertainment world - being featured in a number of publications and conferences including the CBS, USA Today, Pitchfork, TMZ, Vibe, People, ETonline, and ABC.
Encrypted
We follow Gia, a young woman with too much weight on her shoulders, as she scathes her way through a brand new journey of self-discovery when she is placed in therapy and is forced to face her inner child for the first time. The story primarily highlights the importance of treating mental health, specifically in Black households. More importantly, it warns its audiences of the potential effects that follow negligence of the self and lovelessness. The story threads a needle through every life that has been altered—or taken—as a result of untreated and/or undiscovered mental health illnesses.
A FILM BY: MIYONI NELSON
Miyoni Nelson made her directorial debut with her first independent project "Encrypted", hoping to make a significant impact on audiences. Beginning her artistic journey as an actress, she made the pivot to filmmaking after dabbling in different student short films. She has more in the works, and plans to create several more of her own projects in the near future.
5 Stars
A online marketplace reseller with a perfect reputation gets a review that taints his five star status hurting him financially. With their back up against the wall they are bent on getting the review changed by any means.
A FILM BY: ALONZO ALONZO RODRIGUEZ-SPENCER & GINGER YIFAN CHEN.
From NY to California a young man has broke his way into the film industry gaining real life experience working on sets and putting together his own projects. A real wholesome guy and former documentary filmmaker at Pixar Animation Studios creating his own unique stories with amazing people!
White History Month
On an eventful day in the principal's office, a disillusioned teacher and a troubled student form an unlikely connection, setting in motion a life-altering encounter that will change both of their futures forever.
A FILM BY: AARON WALLACE
Aaron Wallace is an innovative filmmaker whose career was shaped by his childhood passion for action and suspense films, particularly those directed by Brian De Palma, as well as the screenplays of Spike Lee. Inspired by these early influences, Aaron developed a talent for writing and began creating short films in his teens. In 1995, he co-wrote Common Bonds, the first feature film produced entirely by teenagers. Supported by legendary actor Robert Redford, the film received two special screenings at the 1997 Sundance Film Festival and was eventually distributed by Starz.
In 2003, Aaron founded Cineapse Pictures, a boutique production company that specializes in branded content tailored to urban audiences. His directorial debut, The Fall (2009), was screened at several prestigious film festivals, including the Hollywood Black Film Festival and Urbanworld, garnering attention for its compelling storytelling and high-production value. The story, inspired by the last track on the Notorious B.I.G.’s diamond certified debut, “Ready to Die” starred up and coming actor Mo McRae in a sexy, neo-noir thriller.
Over the years, Aaron has continued to develop and produce several independent projects, cementing his reputation as a versatile and visionary filmmaker. In 2024, he returned to his true passion for writing and directing with A World of Trouble, followed by his current project, White History Month, which is slated for release later this year.
Button Pusher
A broken air conditioner, a cancelled coworker, and a cheating husband. A hair braider struggles to maintain her composure after finding out her client is having an affair with her husband.
A FILM BY: MISKI OMAR
Miski Omar (she/her), is a Somali-Australian speech pathologist based in Western Sydney. Her work as a mobile speech pathologist offers a panoramic view of diverse stories and experiences all over Sydney. An alumni of the well-loved Bankstown Poetry Slam, Miski has performed at renowned venues, such as The Parliament House, The Art Gallery of NSW, and the Sydney Writers Festival. She even delighted audiences with a sold-out show at the Sydney Comedy Festival in 2019. In 2024, she made her directorial debut through ABC and Screen Australia's Fresh Blood initiative, writing and directing a comedy short that premiered on ABC iView. Drawing on her daily encounters with language breakdowns, Miski's work embraces an apophenic lens, revealing unexpected connections that may have eluded others.
Reginald O'Neal: Reflections
A broken air conditioner, a cancelled coworker, and a cheating husband. A hair braider struggles to maintain her composure after finding out her client is having an affair with her husband.
A FILM BY: DENNIS SCHOLL & ED TALAVERA
Dennis Scholl and Ed Talavera are acclaimed, award-winning documentary filmmakers with a shared passion for arts and culture. Together, their extensive body of work includes numerous film credits featured on HBO, Showtime, Cinemax, ESPN, PBS, and in theaters across the globe. Their theatrical film credits boast titles such as Rope Tied, Sue, Perfect Prey, and Bridget. Their notable feature documentaries include One Water, Finding Gaston, and Naked Ambition: Bunny Yeager.
La Painderella
La Painderella is a fresh twist on the classic story, Cinderella. Set during one summer weekend in Brooklyn. Witty, charming, and creative, Lilly—Painderella—is extremely overworked by her self-absorbed and 24/7 demanding manager, MeMe, a prominent New York food influencer. Lilly doesn’t have a life plan yet, but she finds peace in baking her specialty, petite baguettes.
When Lilly stumbles upon Oliver—the handsome guy at a coffee shop—she’ll break out of her work rut.
Sparks fly when the two picnic in Brooklyn’s social scene of the season, Prospect Park. But when MeMe calls, the clock strikes for Lilly. She’ll leave her beautiful blue baguette bag behind, sending Oliver on a quest to every artisan-bread bakery in Brooklyn to find his Painderella.
A FILM BY: HALEY DIX
Haley Dix is from New Jersey and currently lives in Brooklyn. She's a Creative Director in advertising, and writes poetry and fiction. In all of work, she seeks to tell stories that are honest and uplifting.
Her latest projects can be found on haleydix.com.
