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Film Life, Inc.’s 15th Annual American Black Film Festival Announces the 2011 Star Project Winners and Finalists with First-time Sponsorship by NBCUniversal

Tiffany D. Hobbs of Dallas and Sheaun McKinney of Los Angeles are Winners in Competition that Underscores Commitment to Discovering New Talent

One Grand Prize Winner will Receive a Walk-on Role on NBC’s Daytime Drama “Days of our Lives”

NEW YORK CITY, July 17, 2011 – Film Life, Inc., announced that the grand-prize winners of its 15th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Star Project are Tiffany D. Hobbs of Dallas and Sheaun McKinney from Los Angeles. Sponsored by NBCUniversal, the program is an international acting competition designed to spotlight emerging multi-cultural talent.

The ABFF Star Project was launched in 2009 as part of the common goal to encourage serious pursuit of the craft by providing a platform for undiscovered actors while supporting their career advancement. In addition to Hobbs and McKinney, the finalists also included two female entrants, Osa Ighodaro (The Bronx, N.Y.) and Kim Pettiford (New York City) as well as two males, Donald George (Los Angeles) and James Holloway (New York City).

The two grand-prize winners will receive all-expense-paid trips to Miami, Fla., to this year’s ABFF convention from July 6-9.

Star Project entrants were required to submit two videotaped monologues: one of their choice, and one selected by NBCUniversal and ABFF. The Star Project Jury was comprised of an esteemed panel of accomplished actors, directors and casting executives.

This year’s Star Project mentor is Kendra Carter, Director of Talent Diversity Initiatives, NBCUniversal Casting.

“We at NBCU are honored to work to with the ABFF as the primary sponsor of this year’s Star Project,” said Carter. “There are so many young and diverse artists out there who deserve a chance to showcase their talents and vision with a program that will nurture and boost their early careers.”

Hobbs began acting, dancing and singing at the age of 3. In 2009, she was accepted to the attend Southern Methodist University’s (SMU) prestigious three-year Master of Fine Arts graduate acting program on full scholarship. To date, Hobbs has been cast in the lead role in numerous SMU campus production, including Carise in “La Dispute,” Mrs. Gibbs in “Our Town,” and Gloria in “You Never Can Tell.” She is currently in Santa Rosa, Calif., in rehearsals for the Summer Repertory Theater’s productions of “Hairspray,” “Company” and “The Piano Lesson.” Hobbs will be entering her final year in graduate school at SMU in the fall.

McKinney has appeared in professional commercial, TV and feature-film projects. His film and television credits include “Know Thy Enemy” for Lionsgate, “Bahama Hustle” for Maverick Entertainment and “Burn Notice” for USA Network. He has also expanded his repertoire in co-writing and producing while starring in his own Web-based show “Make It Happen,” for which he has received many accolades and is looking to shop around to networks later this year. McKinney attended Miami-Dade College and received an Associate in Arts degree in theater education.

In addition to the winners’ free trip to the ABFF convention in Miami, the Star Project winners will be presented before the festival audience during its culminating event — the ABFF Honors on July 9. Additionally, one grand-prize winner will be granted a walk-on role on the award-winning NBC daytime drama “Days of our Lives” and will have the opportunity to audition before a leading casting director.

HBO (Founding & Premier Sponsor); Grey Goose and Team Sizzle Worldwide (Premier Sponsors); the gmc Television Network, Cadillac, American Airlines, Gold Peak Tea, Wells Fargo and AT&T (Official Sponsors); The Nielsen Company, Nickelodeon, NBCUniversal, Codeblack Entertainment, Grab Networks and CNN (Supporting Sponsors); Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority and The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (Host Sponsors); CBS, Stella Artois, Writers Guild of America West, SAGIndie and FOX Searchlight Pictures (Diversity Partners). Media Sponsors include: Black Enterprise, The Michael Baisden Show and Uptown (Official Level); AOL Black Voices, Heart & Soul, Automotive Rhythms, Monarch and Precious Times (Supporting Level).

Established in 1997, the core mission of the ABFF is to promote cultural diversity within the motion picture industry. Through its film showcases and special contests, it annually introduces the top echelon of emerging artists to the film and television industry.

The ABFF is a property of Film Life, Inc., a New York-based event marketing, production and film distribution company founded in 2000 by Jeff Friday (CEO). For full details on this year’s festival, please visit www.abff.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Nate Kirtman, NBC Publicity, 818/777-3111, [email protected]
Lisa Sorensen or Chandra McQueen, the Sorensen McQueen Group, 646/330-5458, [email protected] or [email protected].

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Film Life’s 15th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Sponsor Lineup Enhanced Festivalgoer Experience, Supported Independent Filmmakers, Artists and Black Cinema

HBO, Grey Goose and Team Sizzle Worldwide Led a Stellar Group of Corporate Partners, Which Also Included The gmc Television Network, Cadillac, American Airlines, Gold Peak Tea, Wells Fargo and AT&T

NEW YORK, July 14, 2011 – Film Life, Inc., celebrated the success of its 15th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF), wrapping in Miami, July 9. A new record of over 5,000 attendees was set and the festival showcased 30 films drawing a diversity of global brands and companies dedicated to supporting independent films. The 2011 sponsorship lineup proved that ABFF is a valued marketing platform reaching influential consumers and top industry executives. The festival created an incomparable on-site experience aligned with sponsors’ overall mission.

Home Box Office, Inc. (HBO®), returned as the festival’s Founding and Premier Sponsor. Since 1998, HBO has worked in many ways to enrich ABFF’s platform through original programs. The HBO Short Film Competition awarded top prize of $20,000. Lucinda Martinez, VP/Domestic Network Distribution & Multicultural Marketing for HBO, and former HBO Executive Olivia Smashum presented the award. HBO Talk Series was also a highlight.

Returning for its fourth year as Premier Sponsor, Grey Goose hosted a series of hospitality receptions, sponsored the Closing Night Party and presented the Grey Goose “Rising Icon” Award to actress Naturi Naughton. Chauncey Hamlett, Grey Goose Brand Manager, and actress Mari Marrow presented the award.

New Premier Sponsor was Team Sizzle Worldwide, a film production company founded and owned by Baltimore Ravens Linebacker Terrell Suggs. Suggs sponsored the ABFF 15th Anniversary Party and the Grand Jury Prize for Best Screenplay. Suggs personally presented along with Actress Elise Neal.

“Through their ongoing support, we are now considered one of the leading film festivals in the world,” stated ABFF Founder Jeff Friday.

“Official Sponsor” activations and engagements included:

  • The gmc Television Network – Launched the gmc Faith and Family Screenplay Competition with a $5,000 Grand Prize and premiered Trinity Goodheart, a gmc original production, starring Eric Benet.
  • Cadillac – Hosted a vehicle showcase (The Cadillac Lounge) featuring an autograph signing with actor Laz Alonso and presented $5,000 to the winner of the Grand Jury Prize for Best Director.
  • American Airlines – Sponsored “A Conversation with Actress Paula Patton,” and presented each Grand Jury Prize winner with two round-trip airline tickets.
  • Gold Peak Tea – Hosted the “Gold Peak Tea Splash Party” with acclaimed Chef G. Garvin and presented $5,000 to the winner of the Grand Jury Prize for Best Actor.
  • Wells Fargo – Introduced the festival’s Opening Night Film, In the Hive, directed by Robert Townsend and presented $5,000 to the winner of the Grand Jury Prize for Best Film.
  • AT&T – Sponsored Robert Townsend’s “The Ultimate Pitch” Master Class and hosted panel entitled, “Bridging the Digital Divide: A Case Study of Robert Townsend’s Web Series In the Hive and the NAACP’s BOND project Builders of the Next Dream.”

Additional sponsor highlights included:

  • NBCUniversal (Supporting) – Sponsored the 3rd annual Star Project, an international competition for emerging actors.
  • CNN (Supporting) – Presented $5,000 to the winner of the Best Documentary Award.
  • Codeblack Entertainment and Grab Networks (Supporting) – Presented a panel discussion entitled “Digital Distribution 101: The New Distribution Paradigm.”
  • Writers Guild of America, West (Diversity Partner) – Presented Michael Elliot’s “From Script to Screen” Master Class.
  • Nielsen (Supporting) and Black Enterprise (Official Media Partner) – Presented panel “The Business of Reality TV.”
  • Codeblack Entertainment (Supporting) – Premiered Kevin Hart’s Laugh At My Pain.
  • The Michael Baisden Show (Official Level Partner) – Hosted screening of Michael Baiden’s Do Women Know What They Want?
  • The Film Life Foundation presented Bill Duke’s Actors Boot Camp.

Additional sponsors included: Nickelodeon (Supporting); Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority and The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (Host Sponsors); CBS, Stella Artois, SAGIndie and Fox Searchlight Pictures (Diversity Partners). Media Sponsors included: Uptown (Official Level); AOL Black Voices, Upscale, Heart & Soul, Automotive Rhythms, Monarch and Precious Times (Supporting Level). Promotional Partners: NBC’s “The Playboy Club” and HanesBrands.

For further information on the festival, visit www.abff.com and for sponsorship inquires call 646-375-2144 ext. 7 or [email protected].

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The 15th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Concludes a Stellar Landmark Year with its Star-studded Culminating Event Recognizing Aspiring Talent and Filmmakers While Paying Tribute to Icons

TRAILBAZER KEENEN IVORY WAYANS WAS PRESENTED WITH THE ENTERTAINMENT ICON AWARD FOR HIS NEARLY 25 YEARS OF SUCCESS IN THE FILM AND TELEVISION INDUSTRY

FIRST ABFF HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES INCLUDED FILMMAKERS ROBERT TOWNSEND AND BILL DUKE, FORMER HBO EXECUTIVE OLIVIA SMASHUM AND CHAIRMAN & CEO OF UNIWORLD GROUP INC. BYRON E. LEWIS SR.

NEW YORK, July 11, 2011 – The 15th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF), which took place in South Beach Miami July 6-9, was an amazing four-day experience for nearly 5,000 festivalgoers and film industry professionals. In keeping with tradition was the closing night ceremony, ABFF Honors. Hosted by actors Anthony Anderson and Regina King on Saturday, July 9, at The Fillmore Miami Beach-Jackie Gleason Theater, the evening was a grand production as Emmy Award-winning producer/director Keenen Ivory Wayans was presented with the Entertainment Icon Award in recognition of his success in the film and television industry for nearly 25 years. On hand for the tribute were his brothers Damon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, nephew Damien Dante Wayans and longtime friend Robert Townsend. Adding to the acknowledgment was a special surprise by Keenen’s junior high school teacher, Ms. Dorothy Jackson, who recognized his potential and encouraged his creative development at a very young age.

“Keenen Ivory Wayans is a trailblazer in the truest sense of the word,” states ABFF Founder Jeff Friday. “In fact, very few people in the industry have provided such a dynamic platform in cultivating such notable talent and revolutionizing comedy and comedic television. Beyond that, Wayans has proven to be an amazing mentor to his family by nurturing the careers of his siblings in the industry, and we are proud to bestow upon him the festival’s highest distinction, especially on our anniversary year.”

Humbled by the recognition, but imbued with his classic comedic flair, Wayans emotionally thanked and acknowledged those who have influenced and contributed to his success, including Robert Townsend; Chris Albrecht; the late, great Richard Pryor for being his beacon; the late Johnny Carson, on whose show it had been Keenen’s dream to appear; brothers Damon, Marlon and Shawn; and others for making the family business a reality. In his acceptance speech Wayans stated, “I thank you all for this honor and it is a great honor.” He further encouraged rising stars to be strong, “…and to all the future generations…be a hurricane.”

Another highlight and emotional element of the show was when founder Jeff Friday took the stage and saluted his loyal supporters — filmmakers Robert Townsend and Bill Duke, former HBO executive Olivia Smashum and Chairman and CEO of UniWorld Group, Inc., Byron E. Lewis Sr. – and inducted them as the very first ABFF Hall of Fame recipients.

The success of this landmark year is due in part to the unyielding support of the festival’s fantastic sponsor family led by Founding and Premier Sponsor HBO®. Friday continued, “I can’t say that I have ever seen a non-televised event with as many leading brands as corporate partners as this year’s ABFF. It is through their ongoing support that we are now considered one of the leading film festivals in the world.”

The complete list of ABFF Honors Awards is as follows:

  • HBO® Short Film Competition – FIG, written by Alex George Pickering and directed by Ryan Coogler. Award presented by Lucinda Martinez, VP/Domestic Network Distribution & Multicultural Marketing for HBO, and former HBO executive Olivia Smashum. Grand Prize of $20,000.
  • Best Documentary, presented by CNN – BROWN BABIES, directed by Regina Griffin. Award presented by Janet Rolle, EVP and Chief Marketing Officer of CNN Worldwide, and actor Dennis White. Grand Prize of $5,000.
  • Grey Goose “Rising Icon” Award – Actress Naturi Naughton. Award presented by Chauncey Hamlett, Grey Goose Brand Manager, and actress Mari Marrow.
  • The Star Project Winners, presented by NBCUniversal – Sheaun McKinney of Los Angeles and Tiffany D. Hobbs of Dallas. Award presented by Kendra Carter, Director of Talent Diversity Initiatives, NBCUniversal Casting; Debra Langford, VP of Inclusion and Business Diversity, NBCUniversal; and actor Mekhi Phifer. Grand Prize winner to receive walk-on role on NBC’s daytime drama “Days of Our Lives.”
  • The gmc Television Network Screenplay Competition — David Martyn Conley for RAISING IZZIE. Award presented by singer Eric Benet and actress DeEtta West. Grand Prize of $5,000.

Grand Jury Winners:

  • Best Screenplay presented by Team Sizzle Worldwide – BLACK GOLD, directed by Jeta Amata. Award presented by Team Sizzle Worldwide CEO Terrell Suggs of the Baltimore Ravens and actress Elise Neal. Grand Prize of $5,000.
  • Best Actor, presented by Gold Peak Tea (tie) – Lonyo Engele for his role as David Brown in DAVID IS DYING and Persia White for her role as Trenyce in DYSFUNCTIONAL FRIENDS. Award presented by Mark Pitts, VP and General Manager of Coffee and Tea for Coca-Cola, and actress Terri J. Vaughn. Grand Prize of $5,000.
  • Best Director, presented by Cadillac – Stephen Lloyd Jackson for DAVID IS DYING. Award presented by Dave Fitzwater, Regional Sales & Marketing Manager SE Region at General Motors, and actor Laz Alonso. Grand Prize of $5,000.
  • Best Film, presented by Wells Fargo THE TESTED, directed by Russell Constanzo. Award presented by Alisa Joseph, VP of Marketing & Communications, and actress Jaszmine Lewis. Grand Prize of $5,000.
  • Grand Jury winners received special presentation by American Airlines. Faye Wright, Regional Managing Director/Flight Service SE Region and Latin America, presented each winner with two round-trip airline tickets.

The festival opened with the premiere of Robert Townsend’s In the Hive (Townsend Entertainment) and a festive after-party at Club Play sponsored by NBC’s upcoming series The Playboy Club. Throughout the week, attendees experienced a diverse range of film screenings and master classes led by acclaimed filmmakers Townsend, Bill Duke and screenwriter Michael Elliot. Additionally, ABFF also welcomed Hollywood actress Paula Patton (Jumping the Broom, Just Wright, Precious and Idlewild) as this year’s special guest for “A Conversation with Paula Patton,” on July 8, sponsored by American Airlines and moderated by Kevin Frazier, from CBS’ The Insider. Patton was candid about her rising career, recent life changes as well as her perspective on the entertainment industry. Other symposiums were sponsored by leading media companies including Codeblack Entertainment, Grab Networks, The Nielsen Company, Black Enterprise, UBCUniversal, HBO, CBS and The gmc Television Network.

In between classes and screenings, festivalgoers visited the Gold Peak Tea Bars, Cadillac Showrooms, Grey Goose Cocktail Hour “Summer Soirees,” and Sponsor Hospitality & Diversity Suites for serious industry networking. Towards the end of the festival, sponsored screenings of Kevin Hart’s Laugh at My Pain (courtesy of Codeblack Entertainment), Do Women Know What They Want? (courtesy of Michael Baisden) and Trinity Goodheart (courtesy of The gmc Television Network) proved to be big hits to sold-out audiences.

Per usual, festival attendees also let loose at the renowned ABFF parties and this year was no exception. The 15th anniversary celebration of Film Life proved to be extra-special when Grammy-nominated recording artist Melanie Fiona hit the stage dazzling the crowd with her vocals at the trendy Miami nightclub LIV, sponsored by Team Sizzle Worldwide.

Returning for a second year was the “Pro-Hollywood Initiative” (PHI), which brought together an impressive group of athletes with an equally impressive group of filmmakers to stimulate athletes’ interest in the movie business, connecting them with talented filmmakers, educating them about the workings of the industry and promoting their involvement in the production of quality independent films.

The PHI roundtable was hosted by founder Jeff Friday and attended by filmmakers Robert Townsend, Keenen Ivory Wayans, Roger Bobb; athletes Terrell Suggs, Calais Campbell, Rod Smart, Isaac Keys and Jalen Rose; with a special presentation by Keith Clinkscales, SVP Content Development and Enterprises at ESPN. Terrell Suggs served as this year’s ABFF Sports Ambassador.

New to the festival’s lineup was the first annual gmc Faith & Family Screenplay Competition, presented by The gmc Television Network. Four original screenplays were presented in a table read event by actors Lamann Rucker, Elise Neal, Jazsmin Lewis and Keith Robinson. The competition was judged by a distinguished panel including Brad Siegel, Vice Chairman/gmc Television Network; Rhonda Baraka, writer of gmc’s first original movie, Trinity Goodheart; and William Morris Endeavor Agent, Charles King.

HBO was the festival’s Founding & Premier Sponsor. Other sponsors included Grey Goose and Team Sizzle Worldwide (Premier Sponsors); the gmc Television Network, Cadillac, American Airlines, Gold Peak Tea, Wells Fargo and AT&T (Official Sponsors); The Nielsen Company, Nickelodeon, NBCUniversal, Codeblack Entertainment, Grab Networks and CNN (Supporting Sponsors); Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority and The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (Host Sponsors); CBS, Stella Artois, Writers Guild of America West, SAGIndie and FOX Searchlight Pictures (Diversity Partners). Media Sponsors include Black Enterprise, The Michael Baisden Show and Uptown (Official Level); AOL Black Voices, Upscale, Heart & Soul, Automotive Rhythms, Monarch and Precious Times (Supporting Level). Promotional Partners: NBC’s The Playboy Club and HanesBrands.

Established in 1997, the core mission of the ABFF is to promote cultural diversity within the motion picture industry. Through its film showcases and special contests, it annually introduces the top echelon of emerging artists to the film and television industry.

The ABFF is a property of Film Life, Inc., a New York-based event marketing, production and film distribution company founded in 2000 by Jeff Friday (CEO). For full details on this year’s festival, please visit www.abff.com. For media inquiries, contact The Sorensen McQueen Group Lisa Sorensen or Chandra McQueen at (646) 330-5458 or via email at [email protected] or [email protected].

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The 15th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Announces its “Master Class” Lineup with Acclaimed Industry Experts Michael Elliot, Bill Duke and Robert Townsend

Intense Workshops for Aspiring Actors, Producers, Writers and Directors July 6-9 in Miami, FL

NEW YORK, May 27, 2011 – Film Life, Inc. is proud to announce its lineup of the highly acclaimed Master Class series to be held during the 15th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) in Miami, Florida, July 6-9, 2011. Designed to incorporate a variety of disciplines such as screenwriting, producing, directing, acting, film scoring and cinematography, this year’s workshop series will be led by renowned industry experts Michael Elliot, Bill Duke and Robert Townsend. Pre-registration is available through June 3 at www.ABFF.com and on-site registration opens July 6.

The first in the series scheduled to take place July 7, “From Script to Screen” will be led by 2011 NAACP Image Award winner for ‘Outstanding Writing in a Motion Picture,’ Michael Elliot. Known for such films as, Brown Sugar and Just Wright, Elliot will teach novice and seasoned writers alike creative as well as the business side of developing and promoting a screenplay. A self-taught writer who learned the craft by studying his favorite films and successfully sidestepping Hollywood’s barriers-to-entry without a manager or agent, Elliot will provide festivalgoers with a comprehensive crash course. He will also reveal his “7 Secrets to creating interesting, real and multi-dimensional characters” and provide invaluable tactics to launching careers in screenwriting in addition to de-mystifying the industry’s standard 3-Act structure for movie scripts. “From Script to Screen” is presented by the Writers Guild of America, West.

Elliot’s writing credits include films: MTV’s Hip-Hopera: Carmen (2001), which launched the film career of Beyonce Knowles; Like Mike (2002), which starred rapper/actor, Bow Wow; Brown Sugar (2002), which starred Taye Diggs and Sanaa Lathan; and Just Wright (2010), which stars Queen Latifah, Common, and Paula Patton. Since his first script sale in May of 1998, he has sold over 25 projects to studios and networks.

The 3-session “Actors Boot Camp,” July 7-9, led by veteran actor/director/producer/writer Bill Duke is one of the highlights of this year’s festival. Sponsored by the Film Life Foundation, it is targeted for the serious actor. Having taught and collaborated with the best in the business, Duke has helped to shape and mold such A-list actors as Taraji P. Henson, Anthony Anderson and Shemar Moore.

Throughout the session, Duke will teach the craft of acting, provide precious insight into the business of entertainment and offer insightful tips on building a career in the field. The highpoint of the course will be an actual role play exercise whereby select attendees will get an opportunity to perform a prepared monologue or scene (reading materials provided by ABFF) before the class under the direction of Duke.

Bill Duke first broke into TV in the early 80s directing episodes of well known TV shows (including Miami Vice, Cagney & Lacey and Hill Street Blues) and went on to divide his time between appearing in front of the camera and behind it on films such as Predator, A Rage in Harlem, Deep Cover and Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit. Bill Duke began his drama training at Boston University followed by NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and the American Film Institute.

To round up the master class series, registered ABFF attendees will learn how to pitch their film or television show idea with Robert Townsend’s “The Ultimate Pitch,” July 8, one of Hollywood’s most successful filmmakers. Designed for those seeking to break through to the next level, acclaimed producer/director Robert Townsend will discuss his technique for pitching ideas: from concept to development, through the various stages of re-writes, pitching to executives at studios, and give advice on how to close the deal with clarity, precision and confidence. As an added bonus, Townsend will also listen to pitches from class attendees and help critique, refine and further develop those presented in session. One lucky attendee will also be handpicked to get his or her idea fully developed with Townsend, and then go on to pitch it to a Hollywood studio.

Over the years, Robert Townsend has created a unique and diverse body of work covering various genres: comedies, Hollywood Shuffle; musicals, The Five Heartbeats; fantasy comedies, The Meteor Man; sit-coms, The Parenthood; and epic dramas, 10,000 Black Men Named George. Currently Mr. Townsend is busy at work with seven projects in various stages of development and completion.

HBO (Founding & Premier Sponsor); Grey Goose and Team Sizzle Worldwide (Premier Sponsors); the gmc Television Network, Cadillac, American Airlines, Gold Peak Tea, Wells Fargo and AT&T (Official Sponsors); The Nielsen Company, Nickelodeon, NBCUniversal, Codeblack Entertainment, Grab Networks and CNN (Supporting Sponsors); Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority and The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (Host Sponsors); CBS, Stella Artois, Writers Guild of America West, SAGIndie and FOX Searchlight Pictures (Diversity Partners). Media Sponsors include: Black Enterprise, The Michael Baisden Show and Uptown (Official Level); AOL Black Voices, Heart & Soul, Automotive Rhythms, Monarch and Precious Times (Supporting Level).

Established in 1997, the core mission of the ABFF is to promote cultural diversity within the motion picture industry. Through its film showcases and special contests, it annually introduces the top echelon of emerging artists to the film and television industry.

The ABFF is a property of Film Life, Inc., a New York-based event marketing, production and film distribution company founded in 2000 by Jeff Friday (CEO). For full details on this year’s festival, please visit www.abff.com. For media inquiries, contact The Sorensen McQueen Group – Lisa Sorensen or Chandra McQueen at (646) 330-5458 or via email at [email protected] or [email protected].

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Emmy Award-winning Producer & Director Keenen Ivory Wayans to be Honored at the 15th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF)

HOSTED BY ACTOR ANTHONY ANDERSON, ABFF HONORS WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY, JULY 9, ENDING THE THREE-DAY FESTIVAL (JULY 6 – 9) IN MIAMI, FL

NEW YORK, May 19, 2011 – Film Life, Inc., CEO, Jeff Friday, is pleased to announce Emmy Award-winning producer/director Keenen Ivory Wayans as honoree at the landmark 15th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF). In recognition of his success in the film and television industry for nearly 25 years, Wayans will be honored with the Entertainment Icon Award at the festival’s culminating event, ABFF Honors, taking place on Saturday, July 9, at The Fillmore Miami Beach – Jackie Gleason Theater in Miami, FL. Keenen Ivory Wayans’ award presentation will be the highlight of ABFF’s annual awards show, where the festival’s independent film awards are presented and artists are saluted for their achievement in cinema and passionate portrayal of stories about people of color. Past honorees have included Morgan Freeman, Lee Daniels, Spike Lee, Robert Townsend, Russell Simmons and Halle Berry.

Originally noted for his infamous stand-up routines, Keenen Ivory Wayans was the first from his famed comedic family to gain notoriety. After years of performing on the circuit, in 1987 Wayans produced and co-wrote the hugely successful feature film Eddie Murphy Raw, catapulting his career to the next level. Having established himself as a talented entertainment visionary, Wayans followed up with a successful string of hits including the indie film Hollywood Shuffle and the classic parody of “blaxploitation” films, I’m Gonna Get You Sucka.

Continuing his success and adding acting to his credits, Wayans broke new ground in television with the Emmy Award-winning Fox comedy series In Living Color. The series single-handedly is credited with launching the careers of such A-list actors Jim Carrey, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Lopez and Damon Wayans. The show also introduced the television audience to brothers Shawn and Marlon Wayans.

“Keenen Ivory Wayans is a trailblazer in the truest sense of the word,” states ABFF founder Jeff Friday. “In fact, very few people in the industry have provided such a dynamic platform in cultivating such notable talent and revolutionizing comedy and comedic television. Beyond that, Wayans has proven to be an amazing mentor to his family by nurturing the careers of his siblings in the industry, and we are proud to bestow him with the festival’s highest distinction, especially on our anniversary year.”

Wayans other film credits include The Five Heartbeats with Robert Townsend; A Low Down Dirty Shame; Most Wanted; The Glimmer Man; the hit “coming of age in the ‘hood” movie Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood, in which brothers Shawn and Marlon starred; the nearly $120 million worldwide grossing film, White Chicks; followed by Little Man and most recently, Dance Flick.

In 2000, Wayans wrote and directed the international box office smash hit Scary Movie, a parody of slasher movies, for Dimension Films. The movie went on to break several box office records including biggest opening for an R-rated movie and highest grossing film for an African American director. The film grossed over $300 million worldwide and led to a successful sequel, Scary Movie 2, which Wayans wrote, directed and produced.

Currently Wayans is developing several features, including It Takes a Village, a story about a successful career woman who adopts a baby from a tiny island nation and unwittingly adopts the entire village. He is also executive producing and directing the television pilot Killville for MTV.

HBO (Founding & Premier Sponsor); Grey Goose and Team Sizzle Worldwide (Premier Sponsors); the gmc Television Network, Cadillac, American Airlines, Gold Peak Tea, Wells Fargo and AT&T (Official Sponsors); The Nielsen Company, Nickelodeon, NBCUniversal, Codeblack Entertainment, Grab Networks and CNN (Supporting Sponsors); Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority and The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (Host Sponsors); CBS, Stella Artois, Writers Guild of America West, SAGIndie and FOX Searchlight Pictures (Diversity Partners). Media Sponsors include: Black Enterprise, The Michael Baisden Show and Uptown (Official Level); AOL Black Voices, Heart & Soul, Automotive Rhythms, Monarch and Precious Times (Supporting Level).

Established in 1997, the core mission of the ABFF is to promote cultural diversity within the motion picture industry. Through its film showcases and special contests, it annually introduces the top echelon of emerging artists to the film and television industry.

The ABFF is a property of Film Life, Inc., a New York-based event marketing, production and film distribution company founded in 2000 by Jeff Friday (CEO). For full details on this year’s festival, please visit www.abff.com. For media inquiries, contact The Sorensen McQueen Group – Lisa Sorensen or Chandra McQueen at (646) 330-5458 or via email at [email protected] or [email protected].

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The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Founder, Jeff Friday, Has Announced the Return of the Pro-hollywood Initiative (PHI) to the 15th Annual Festival

TERRELL SUGGS, BALTIMORE RAVENS ALL-PRO LINEBACKER AND FILM PRODUCER, HAS BEEN NAMED PHI AMBASSADOR

Workshop Successful in Bridging Relationships between Professional Athletes and Filmmakers

NEW YORK, May 10, 2011 – The Pro-Hollywood Initiative (PHI) returns for a second year to The 15th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF), July 6 – 9, 2011 in Miami, FL. The Pro-Hollywood Initiative (PHI) is a program created to encourage professional athletes to explore careers in the motion picture industry. This year, ABFF Founder Jeff Friday, names Baltimore Ravens All-Pro Linebacker, Terrell Suggs, Sports Ambassador of this revolutionary initiative. With a film screening at Cannes this year, Suggs, has proven how influential the Pro-Hollywood Initiative has been to his growth as a serious filmmaker.

The program’s main objectives are to stimulate athletes’ interest in the movie business, connect them with talented filmmakers, educate them about the workings of the industry and promote their involvement in the production of quality independent films. The PHI master classes cover a variety of disciplines related to filmmaking, including screenwriting, directing, cinematography, producing, acting and film financing. Instructors are selected from among leading filmmakers, industry executives and professors at top-tier film schools.

This year’s PHI sophomore class will attend the following Film Life’s Master classes: Bill Duke’s “Actors Boot Camp,” Michael Elliot’s “From Script to Screen” and Robert Townsend’s “The Ultimate Pitch.” The program will conclude with a private roundtable luncheon to honor the 2011 professional athletes’ participation and provide them the opportunity to intimately gain valuable industry insight from these distinguished filmmakers and others face-to-face. Participation in the program is underwritten by the Film Life Foundation, Inc., a not for profit organization dedicated to fostering diversity within the motion picture and television industries

The PHI was inspired by the 2009 meeting between ABFF founder Jeff Friday and Baltimore Ravens All-Pro linebacker Terrell Suggs, who attended the festival for the first time that year after launching a film production company. Since that initial meeting Suggs has produced a total of four short-films, one of which is debuting this month at Cannes Film Festival titled When Beautiful People Do Ugly Things. This May, Suggs is set to begin production on his first feature length film entitled The Coalition which will explore the vast nuances between men and women in relationships.

“I am extremely humbled to serve as the very first Sports Ambassador of the Pro-Hollywood Initiative,” says Mr. Suggs. “Through the program’s comprehensive teachings and exposure to many of the most respected professionals in the industry, ABFF has provided me with a firm foundation in filmmaking which has enabled me to actively follow my own professional pursuits in the motion picture business. I am most grateful to Jeff for his groundbreaking vision and look forward to this year’s event.”

“Last year was a huge success,” stated festival Founder Jeff Friday. “But to personally witness the achievements of someone such as Terrell in such a short period of time further solidifies my own passion in providing this unique platform for professional athletes. It makes me proud.” Mr. Friday continues, “Terrell’s dedication and commitment to expand his horizons in filmmaking makes him the optimum Sports Ambassador and we are very happy to have bestowed this honor to such an incredible athlete and filmmaker. We hope to see more sports stars like Terrell engaged in the film arena as part of their off the field agendas, whether in front of or behind the camera.”

The Pro-Hollywood Initiative is by invitation and limited to 20 participants. Current or retired athletes from any professional sport are eligible. Past participants include: Terrell Suggs (Baltimore Ravens), Ikechuku Ndukwe (New York Giants), Jonathan Vilma (New Orleans Saints), Isaac Keys (retired Arizona Cardinals) and Hannibal Navies (retired San Francisco 49’ers). This innovative program will seek the support of player associations and major sports leagues, including the NFL, NBA, WNBA and MLB.

Program registration information can be obtained by contacting Ghana Wilson at [email protected] or by calling 646-375-2144, ext 5. Regular festival updates are available at www.abff.com.

HBO (Founding & Premier Sponsor); Grey Goose and Team Sizzle Worldwide (Premier Sponsors); the gmc Television Network, Cadillac, American Airlines, Gold Peak Tea, Wells Fargo and AT&T (Official Sponsors); The Nielsen Company, Nickelodeon, NBCUniversal, Codeblack Entertainment, Grab Networks and CNN (Supporting Sponsors); Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority and The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (Host Sponsors); CBS, Stella Artois, Writers Guild of America West, SAGIndie and FOX Searchlight Pictures (Diversity Partners). Media Sponsors include: Black Enterprise, The Michael Baisden Show and Uptown (Official Level); AOL Black Voices, Heart & Soul, Automotive Rhythms, Monarch and Precious Times (Supporting Level).

Established in 1997, the core mission of the ABFF is to promote cultural diversity within the motion picture industry. Through its film showcases and special contests, it annually introduces the top echelon of emerging artists to the film and television industry.

The ABFF is a property of Film Life, Inc., a New York-based event marketing, production and film distribution company founded in 2000 by Jeff Friday (CEO).

For media inquiries, contact The Sorensen McQueen Group – Lisa Sorensen or Chandra McQueen at (646) 330-5458 or via email at [email protected] or [email protected].

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15th Annual American Black Film Festival Kicks Off 3rd Annual Star Project

NBCUNIVERSAL SIGNS ON AS CONTEST’S SPONSOR

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. – March 7, 2011 – Film Life, Inc., announced the kickoff of the 15th Annual American Black Film Festival’s (ABFF) Star Project, an international acting competition for emerging multicultural artists. This year’s contest, which opens March 7, 2011, is sponsored by NBCUniversal.

“We are very pleased to once again provide a platform for gifted new actors through the Star Project,” said Jeff Friday, ABFF founder. “Last year, we were able to showcase the talents of two rising stars, Stephen Hill and Emayatzy Corinealdi, who have since appeared on NBC’s ‘Law & Order: SVU,’ and an upcoming untitled Sci-Fi Channel series. We are very excited to see what this year’s crop of talent yields.”

Now in its third year, the ABFF Star Project was launched in 2009 as part of Film Life’s goal to encourage the serious pursuit of acting by providing a platform to spotlight talented, yet undiscovered actors, and to support their career advancement. Star Project finalists are required to submit two videotaped monologues by the contest closure date of May 2, 2011. The entries will be judged by the Star Project Jury, comprised of a panel of accomplished industry professionals, that will determine the grand-prize winners.

Contest winners will receive an all-expense-paid trip to the 2011 ABFF (July 6-9) in Miami, Fla., where they will be introduced to the festival audience during the ABFF awards presentation on July 9. Additionally, one winner will be granted a walk-on role on the NBC daytime drama “Days of our Lives,” and all winners will have the opportunity to audition for a leading casting director. This year’s Star Project mentor will be Kendra Carter, Director of Talent Diversity Initiatives, NBCUniversal Casting.

“NBCUniversal is proud to support the Star Project contest as part of its ongoing commitment to improving opportunities for diverse artists to excel in entertainment,” said Carter. “Our partnership with the ABBF will continue to make a difference as we help to create a more inclusive playing field that will ultimately benefit everyone in the industry.”

HBO is the festival’s Founding and Premier Sponsor. Other sponsors to date include: Grey Goose (Premier Sponsor); the GMC television network, American Airlines and Gold Peak Tea (Official Sponsors); The Nielsen Company, Nickelodeon and NBCUniversal (Supporting Sponsors); Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority and The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (Host Sponsors); and CBS (Diversity Partner). Media Sponsors include: AOL Black Voices, Black Enterprise, Uptown (Official Level); Heart & Soul, Automotive Rhythms, Monarch and Precious Times (Supporting Level).

Established in 1997, the core mission of the ABFF is to promote cultural diversity within the motion picture industry. Through its film showcases and special contests, it annually introduces the top echelon of emerging artists to the film and television industry.

The ABFF is a property of Film Life, Inc., a New York-based event marketing, production and film distribution company founded in 2000 by Jeff Friday (CEO).

General registration information can be obtained by visiting www.abff.com, calling 646/375-2144 (ext. 1), or contacting the festival via email at [email protected].

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Ghana Wilson, 646/375-2144 (ext. 5); [email protected]
Nate Kirtman, NBC Entertainment Publicity, 818/777-3111, [email protected]

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Film Life’s American Black Film Festival Celebrates 15 Years, Announces Dates and Call For Entries

HBO® Continues as Founding and Premier Sponsor

NEW YORK, Feb. 2, 2011 – Film Life, Inc., announces the 15th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) to be held in Miami, Florida, July 6-9, 2011. The ABFF is an industry retreat and competitive showcase of independent Black film. Home Box Office, Inc. (HBO®), returns for the fourteenth year in support of the festival’s mission to strengthen the Black filmmaking community through resource sharing, education, artistic collaboration and career development.

The 2011 festival will feature the return of the acclaimed Actors Boot Camp led by actor/director Bill Duke, and Robert Townsend’s “The Ultimate Pitch” Master Class as well as film screenings, celebrity conversations, panel discussions and hospitality events. “For a decade and a half, the ABFF and its sponsors have been committed to showcasing the works of the best and brightest independent filmmakers, while entertaining and enlightening our audience,” said ABFF Founder Jeff Friday. “It has been a true privilege to be part of the continuing evolution of Black cinema,” Friday added.

“HBO® is proud of its long-standing partnership with the ABFF. Our combined efforts have given much needed exposure to 65 emerging filmmakers to date,” said Dennis Williams, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at HBO®. “We are committed to the representation of diverse stories and bringing attention to talented individuals whose voices might not otherwise be heard were it not for the ABFF and the HBO® Short Film Competition,” Williams added.

ABFF submissions are now open in the Narrative and Documentary Feature sections. Call for entries for the Short Film Competition and Mobile Entertainment sections are scheduled to open February 1. Festival Awards include: The HBO® Short Film Award; Grand Jury Prizes for Best Screenplay, Best Director, Best Film and Best Performance by an Actor, as well as the ABFF Audience Award for Best Mobile Content. Festival prizes range from $5,000 to $20,000. Discounted festival passes and tickets are on sale through January 31 at www.abff.com

HBO® is the festival’s Founding and Premier Sponsor. Other sponsors to date include: Grey Goose (Premier Sponsor), the GMC television network, Gold Peak Tea and American Airlines (Official Sponsors), Nickelodeon and The Nielsen Company (Supporting Sponsors). Media Sponsors include: AOL Black Voices, Black Enterprise and Uptown (Official Level), and Heart & Soul (Supporting Level).

Established in 1997, the core mission of the ABFF is to promote cultural diversity within the motion picture industry. Through its film showcases and special contests, it annually introduces the top echelon of emerging artists to the film and television industry.

The ABFF is a property of Film Life, Inc., a New York-based event marketing, and production and film distribution company founded in 2000 by Jeff Friday (CEO).

For media inquiries, call Ghana Wilson at 646-375-2144 ext. 5 or via email at [email protected]. General registration information can be obtained by visiting www.abff.com, calling 646-375-2144, ext 1, or contacting the festival via email at [email protected].