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GMC TV Announces Finalists in 2012 GMC Faith and Family Screenplay Competition

2011 Winner “Raising Izzie” to Premieres on Closing Night at ABFF Before its Exclusive World Television Premiere on GMC Friday, July 21

ATLANTA, May 2012 – GMC TV, America’s favorite channel for uplifting music and family entertainment, announced today the three finalists in the 2012 GMC Faith and Family Screenplay Competition. In the Meantime by Nzinga Kadalie Kemp, The Substance of Things Hoped For by Marc A. Cunningham and Kissed by the Sun by Ronice Johnson will each vie for the grand prize of $5,000. The contest, promoting the development of faith and family-friendly entertainment screenplays is a component of GMC’s “Official Sponsorship” of Film Life’s 16th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF), which will be held June 20 – 23 in Miami.

In its second year, the 2012 competition generated 148 entries, up from 131 in 2011. Judging the three finalists will be Rhonda Baraka (writer, Trinity Goodheart and Pastor Brown); Roger M. Bobb, (For Colored Girls, “House of Payne”), Bobbcat Films and producer/director of Raising Izzie; and DeVon Franklin, vice president of production for Columbia Pictures, a division of Sony Pictures Entertainment.

The three finalists will have portions of their screenplay performed as “tablereads” at the festival by well-known actors and in front of a live audience of festival attendees and industry tastemakers. A grand prize winner will be announced at the festival.

“We are pleased to continue to build our partnership with ABFF encouraging the African American creative community to come to us with natural stories that intrinsically incorporate faith and family friendly elements, and speak to broad audiences,” said Brad Siegel, vice chairman, GMC. “The interest level and quality of submissions over the competition’s first two years, along with the reinforcement that GMC is the right home for these types of stories, is exactly what we hoped to achieve by creating this opportunity.”

The three 2012 finalists are:

In the Meantime
by Nzinga Kadalie Kemp of Los Angeles, California

A bride-to-be gives her fiancé “creative” freedom before their wedding day, but ends up finding faith and the meaning of true love in the meantime. Jazmin “Jazz” Welles and her fiancé “Blac” are taking a non-traditional approach to their nuptials. They’ve agreed to take nine months off to discover themselves and if it is indeed true love, they’ll show up on the wedding day, no questions asked.

The Substance of Things Hoped For
by Marc A. Cunningham of North Hollywood, California

After a tremendous number of setbacks, Lacy Scott decides to leave home to pursue his dream of being a lawyer. As he tugs along on his journey with just hope and a dream, he finds out anything is possible when you have faith.

Kissed by the Sun
by Ronice Johnson of Charlotte, North Carolina

Life was comfortable for Summer, a graceful, stylish and popular young girl living in Harlem, NY with her mom. Upon deciding to spend the summer with dad in Burlington, Vermont, Summer is enrolled in a camp that exposes her to new kids and an unexpected experience – racial bullying. Summer has to decide whether to ignore the problem or expose it.

The 2011 winner of the GMC Faith and Family Screenplay Competition, Raising Izzie, was filmed as a GMC World Premiere Movie earlier this year and will close out ABFF on Saturday, June 23, at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. GMC’S World Premiere Movie Raising Izzie stars Daytime Emmy© nominee and NAACP Image Award© winner Vanessa Williams (“Lincoln Heights,” “Soul Food”), Rockmond Dunbar (“Soul Food”), Kyla Kenedy (Three Stooges, “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation”) and Victoria Staley (“My Parents, My Sister and Me”, “Surface”). Directed by Roger M. Bobb (For Colored Girls, “House of Payne”), the film is based on the winning screenplay submitted by David Martyn Conley. Raising Izzie will have its world television premiere exclusively on GMC at 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 21 with encore broadcasts at 7 and 9 p.m.

The 2011 second runner-up, “Somebody’s Child” written by Siddeeqah Powell will begin production in the summer and will premiere on GMC later in the year.

About GMC TV
GMC (www.watchGMCtv.com) is America’s favorite television channel for uplifting music and family entertainment. The Parents Television CouncilTM has twice awarded its Entertainment Seal of ApprovalTM to GMC for being “an authentic family-friendly cable network.” GMC is the only television network brand to be so honored. GMC can be seen in more than 51 million homes on various cable systems around the country, as well as DISH Network on channel 188, DIRECTV on channel 338 and Verizon FiOS on channel 224. Follow GMC TV on Facebook and Twitter at http://facebook.com/gmctv and http://twitter.com/gmctv.

About ABFF
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).

Contacts:

Chelsye J. Burrows
770.692.4559
[email protected]

Jackie Bazan-Ross
212-643-4664 X704
[email protected]

Evelyn Santana
212-643-4664 X702
[email protected]

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Kimberly Elise, Isaiah Washington, Common & S. Epatha Merkerson are among the stellar list of Grand Jury nods from Film Life’s 16th Annual American Black Film Festival

NEW YORK, May 15, 2012 – Film Life Inc., today announced the Narrative Features Competition selections and Grand Jury Award nominees for the 16th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) taking place in South Beach Miami, FL, June 20th – 23rd. Kimberly Elise, Isaiah Washington, Common and S. Epatha Merkerson are among the stellar list of thespians nominated to receive the Grand Jury prize for their work.

The films in ABFF’s 2012 Narrative Features section reflect a creative multiplicity which can be seen, felt and heard in controversy through rhythmic Jamaican patois (Better Mus’ Come) to a young Parisian woman’s search for her father (Elza). Struggle and disappointment between generations is candidly explored (LUV) and two men of the cloth face consequences (The Undershepherd).

Each film in the narrative features section must be directed by a person of African descent, tell a story of the Black experience or feature a person of African descent in a leading role. Films that are submitted for consideration are reviewed by a team of film industry professionals, which comprises the ABFF’s screening committee. Each film is graded on artistic merit and impactful subject matter. As this year’s Grand Jury President, Actor, Mekhi Phifer (“Lie to Me,” “ER”), will serve as a judge and will present prizes in front of the festival audience at The Winners Circle awards presentation on the closing day of the festival.

The complete list of the 2012 Narrative Feature films is as follows:

BETTER MUS’ COME
Written and directed by Storm Saulter, produced by Paul Bucknor

CAST: Sheldon Shepherd, Nicole ‘Sky’ Grey, Everaldo Creary, Ricardo Orgill and Roger Guenveur Smith

SYNOPSIS: The film follows warring political factions in 1970s Jamaica as they enlist the support of gangs to enforce their policies, and advanced their political agenda.

 

THE DARK PARTY
Written by William Wells, Kadeem Hardison, Salenta Baisden and Terry Wilkerson, produced by Terry Wilkerson, Deji LaRay, Salenta Baisden and William Wells, directed by Kadeem Hardison

CAST: Kadeem Hardison, Marcus Patrick and Tiffany Hines

SYNOPSIS: When two best friends want to find true love, a radio talk psychologist helps them throw the ultimate blind date party and serous social experiment.

 

THE LAST FALL
Written and directed by Matthew Cherry, produced by Ellis Hobbs, Monique Hobbs, Nikki Love and Scott Hebert

CAST: Lance Gross, Nicole Behari, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Obba Babatundé, Darrin DeWitt Henson, Michael Moss, Harry Lennix, Keith David

SYNOPSIS: An NFL journeyman struggles to deal with life’s complexities after his professional career is over at twenty-five.

 

LUV
Written and directed by Sheldon Candis and Justin Wilson, produced by Jason Berman, Datari Turner, W. Michael Jenson, Gordon Bijelonic, Joel Newton, James Rosenthal, Common and Derek Dudley

CAST: Common, Michael Rainey Jr., Dennis Haysbert, Danny Glover, Charles S. Dutton, Michael Kenneth Williams and Meagan Good

SYNOPSIS: An orphaned eleven-year-old boy is forced to face an unpleasant truth about his beloved uncle during one harrowing day in the streets of Baltimore.

 

ELZA
Written and directed by Mariette MonPierre and Mama Keita, produced by Mariette MonPierre, Gerard LaCroix, Eric Basset

CAST: Stana Roumillac, Vincent Byrd Le Sage, Christophe Cherki, Sophie Berger

SYNOPSIS: A young Parisian woman of Caribbean descent returns to her native island of Guadeloupe in search of the father she has never known.

 

THE UNDERSHEPHERD
Produced and directed by Russ Parr, produced by Russ Parr, Eric Tomosunas, Scott Aronson and Isaiah Washington

CAST: Isaiah Washington, Louis Gossett Jr., Lamman Rucker, Malinda Williams, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Elise Neal, Robinne Lee, Clifton Powell, Keith David and John Wesley

SYNOPSIS: Two minister’s opposing decisions destroy their friendship as the ascension of evil verses the struggle of an honest church impact the entire community.

 

Film awards presented include: Grand Jury Prize for Best Screenplay, sponsored by Ciroc; Grand Jury Prize for Best Director, sponsored by Cadillac; Grand Jury Prize for Best Actor, sponsored by Gold Peak Tea; Grand Jury Prize for Best Narrative Feature, sponsored by BET Networks; and Best Documentary sponsored by CNN. Prizes will be presented at ABFF’s culminating ceremony, The Winners Circle on June 23.

 

The four films in the narrative features category compete for ABFF’s Grand Jury Prizes for:

Best Screenplay, presented by Ciroc
Best Director, presented by Cadillac
Best Actor, presented by Gold Peak Tea
Best Narrative Feature, presented by BET Networks

 

The specific nominees are as follows:

Grand Jury Prize for Best Screenplay, presented by Ciroc
Storm Saulter – BETTER MUS’ COME
Matthew Cherry – THE LAST FALL
Mariettte MonPierre and Mama Keita – ELZA
Russ Parr – THE UNDERSHEPHERD

Grand Jury Prize for Best Director, presented by Cadillac
Sheldon Candis – LUV
Matthew Cherry – THE LAST FALL
Russ Parr – THE UNDERSHEPHERD
Storm Saulter – BETTER MUS’ COME

Grand Jury Prize Best Performance by an Actor (Male or Female), presented by Gold Peak Tea
Common – LUV
Lance Gross – THE LAST FALL
Sheldon Sheppard – BETTER MUS’ COME
Isaiah Washington – THE UNDERSHEPHERD

Nicole Behari – THE LAST FALL
Kimberly Elise – TIES THAT BIND
Malinda Williams – THE UNDERSHEPHERD

Grand Jury Prize for Narrative Feature, presented by BET Networks
THE LAST FALL
ELZA
LUV
THE UNDERSHEPHERD

Grand Jury Prize for Documentary, presented by CNN
THE CONTRADICTIONS OF FAIR HOPE, co-directed by S. Epatha Merkerson and Rockell Metcalf FORCE M.D.s RELIVED, directed by Frazier Prince THINK NFL, LOVE DAD (The DeSean Jackson Story), co-directed by Byron Jackson and Kern Konwiser SOUL FOOD JUNKIES, directed by Byron Hurt

 

Full pass and ticket information for the 2012 ABFF can be found at abff.com

HBO (Founding and Premier Sponsor); Gold Peak Tea (Premier); gmc Television Network, American Airlines, Cadillac and CNN (Official Sponsors); Grab Media, NBCUniversal, Nickelodeon, smartwater, Nielsen, BET Networks, Stella Artois and Wells Fargo (Supporting Sponsors); The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority and Miami Community Redevelopment Agency (Host Sponsors) and SAGIndie, One Village Entertainment, Miami Film Month, thirdREEL (Promotional Partners); Media Sponsors include: Black Enterprise, Uptown (Official Level); Jones Magazine 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 abff.com.

For media inquiries, contact Lisa Sorensen at 646-330-5458 or [email protected]

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S. Epatha Merkerson’s ‘THE CONTRADICTIONS OF FAIR HOPE’ and The Desean Jackson Story ‘THINK NFL, LOVE DAD’ are among Film Life’s 16th Annual American Black Film Festival documentary competition selections

Winner of the documentary competition to be presented with $5,000

NEW YORK, May 15, 2012 – Film Life Inc., today announced the documentary competition selections for the 16th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) taking place in South Beach Miami, FL, June 20th – 23rd.

This year, the four documentaries featured in the festival showcase an eclectic mix of stories. From the culture of food within the African-American community, to following the career trajectory of a young athlete, these personal stories and viewpoints are what make the documentary competition so special to ABFF. One selected documentary will receive The Best Documentary Award and a grand prize of $5,000, which will be presented at The Winners Circle awards presentation on the closing day of the festival.

ABFF Documentary Competition finalists must meet certain criteria; each documentary must be directed by a person of African descent or tell a story of the Black experience. Films that are submitted for consideration are reviewed by a team of film industry professionals, which comprises the ABFF’s Screening Committee. Each film is graded on artistic merit and impactful subject matter.

Jeff Friday, founder and CEO of ABFF states, “I commend the filmmakers for telling these amazing stories.” Adding, “The themes of the films in the documentary competition reflect various cultural touchstones which are important to the people that make up our festival.”

The complete list of films selected for the 2012 Documentary Competition is as follows:

THE CONTRADICTIONS OF FAIR HOPE, co-directed by S. Epatha Merkerson and Rockell Metcalf
An unprecedented window into the lives of freed slaves who courageously formed benevolent societies in America as they transitioned from slavery to freedom. The film examines the historical impact of the Fair Hope Benevolent Society juxtaposed against the worldly pleasures of its modern day “Foot Wash” celebration.

FORCE M.D.s RELIVED, directed by Frazier Prince (World Premiere)
Historic musical footage and heart wrenching interviews tell the incredible story of Hip Hop and R&B’s most dynamic innovators.

THINK NFL, LOVE DAD (The DeSean Jackson Story), co-directed by Byron Jackson and Kern Konwiser (World Premiere)
This film is the result of over 20 years of documenting every aspect of the NFL star DeSean Jackson and his family’s rocky journey trying to stay together through it all.

SOUL FOOD JUNKIES, directed by Byron Hurt (World Premiere)
Baffled by his dad’s unwillingness to change his traditional soul food diet in the face of a health crisis, Hurt sets out to learn more about this rich culinary tradition and its relevance to Black cultural identity.

HBO (Founding and Premier Sponsor); Gold Peak Tea (Premier); gmc Television Network, American Airlines, Cadillac and CNN (Official Sponsors); Grab Media, NBCUniversal, Nickelodeon, smartwater, Nielsen, BET Networks, Stella Artois and Wells Fargo (Supporting Sponsors); The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority and Miami Community Redevelopment Agency (Host Sponsors) and SAGIndie, One Village Entertainment, Miami Film Month, thirdREEL (Promotional Partners); Media Sponsors include: Black Enterprise, Uptown (Official Level); Jones Magazine 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 abff.com.

For documentary photos please visit: http://ls-pr.com/?p=1047.

For media inquiries, contact Lisa Sorensen at 646-330-5458 or [email protected]

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Film Life’s 16th Annual American Black Film Festival Announces the HBO® Short Film Award Competition Selections

Winner of the 15th Annual HBO® Short Film Award Competition to be presented with $20,000 grand prize

NEW YORK, May 11, 2012 – Film Life Inc., today announced the HBO Short Film Award competition selections for the 16th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) taking place in South Beach Miami, FL, June 20th – 23rd.

The HBO® Short Film Award competition, which has been an integral part of the festival for 15 years, is one of the most prestigious platforms for emerging filmmakers. Five finalists’ films are screened before the festival audience and each vie for a grand prize of $20,000. In addition, the films in competition will also be considered for broadcast on one of HBO’s programming services. Talent discovered through this competition include filmmakers: Sylvain White (The Losers, Stomp the Yard), Frank E. Flowers (Haven) and Saladin Patterson (“Psych,” “The Bernie Mac Show” and The Fighting Temptations).

Jeff Friday, founder and CEO of ABFF states, “HBO has consistently demonstrated a commitment to discovering new filmmakers, which is the goal of our festival.” He adds, “Every year, the HBO Short Film Award competition is a highlight, and we are thrilled to have HBO actively involved as our founding and premier sponsor.”

The complete list of the 2012 HBO Short Film Award Competition films is as follows:

ZERO, written and directed by Kimberly Townes (World Premiere)
An introverted teen is forced to defend herself when her bullies threaten to spill the beans about her crush on the math teacher.

CHERRY WAVES, written and directed by Carey Williams (World Premiere)
A story of love, loss, and finding oneself set against the world of underground street fighting.

SLEEP, written and directed by Donald Conley (World Premiere)
Rashad assumes the responsibility of his household during the one morning that changes the rest of his life.

WOMACK, written and directed by André Wilkins (World Premiere)
A vicious crime leaves a Brooklyn man wrestling with his conscience, searching for an escape to greater purpose.

BUSTED ON BRIGHAM LANE, written and directed by Talibah Newman (World Premiere)
A teenage girl takes precariously creative measures to reconcile her relationship with her estranged father for her 18th birthday after spotting him singing on the train.

 

“The success of the HBO Short Film Award stems from both the hard work and creativity found in the black filmmaking community,” said Lucinda Martinez, vice president, Domestic Network Distribution & Multicultural Marketing at HBO. “It was created to celebrate young filmmakers and we’re extremely proud of all the talent the competition has brought to the forefront.”

HBO® (Founding and Premier Sponsor); Gold Peak Tea (Premier); gmc Television Network, American Airlines, Cadillac and CNN (Official Sponsors); Grab Media, NBCUniversal, Nickelodeon, smartwater, Nielsen, BET Networks, Stella Artois and Wells Fargo (Supporting Sponsors); The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority and Miami Community Redevelopment Agency (Host Sponsors) and SAGIndie, One Village Entertainment, Miami Film Month, thirdREEL (Promotional Partners); Media Sponsors include: Black Enterprise, Uptown (Official Level); Jones Magazine 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 abff.com.

Home Box Office, Inc. is the premium television programming subsidiary of Time Warner Inc. and the world’s most successful pay TV service, providing the two television services – HBO® and Cinemax® – to approximately 93 million subscribers worldwide. The services offer the most popular subscription video-on-demand products, HBO On Demand® and Cinemax On Demand® as well as HBO GO® and MAX GO®, HD feeds and multiplex channels. Internationally, HBO branded television networks, along with the subscription video-on-demand products HBO On Demand and HBO GO, bring HBO services to over 60 countries. HBO programming is sold into over 150 countries worldwide.

For photos please visit: http://ls-pr.com/?p=1015 .

For media inquiries, contact Lisa Sorensen at 646-330-5458 or [email protected]

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Film Life’s 16th Annual American Black Film Festival Announces the 2012 Star Project Grand Prize Winners – Sherial Mckinney and Robert Hunter

One grand-prize winner will receive a walk-on role on NBC’s daytime drama “Days of our Lives”

Sherial McKinney and Robert Hunter

NEW YORK, May 4, 2012 – Film Life, Inc., announced that winners of its 16th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Star Project are Sherial McKinney of Sherman Oaks, CA and Robert Hunter of Cleveland, OH. Sponsored by NBCUniversal, this 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. The winners, Sherial McKinney and Robert Hunter, where selected among a stellar group of finalists which included Ozioma Akagha (Los Angeles, CA), Stephanie La Capra (New York, NY), Justin Chu Cary (Berkeley, CA) and Kenny Cooper (Los Angeles, CA).

Star Project entrants were required to submit two videotaped monologues online, one of their choice, and one selected by NBCUniversal and ABFF. The Star Project jury, comprised of an esteemed panel of accomplished actors, directors and casting executives, selected three female and three male finalists. From the six finalists, the two winners, one male and one female, will receive all-expense-paid trips to Miami, Florida, to this year’s ABFF festival. One grand-prize winner will be selected by NBCUniversal to appear in a walk-on role on “Days of our Lives” and will have the opportunity to audition before a leading casting director.

“NBCUniversal is honored to partner with the ABBF to encourage and reward promising young film artists with a chance to elevate their work in order to receive instruction, guidance and our full support in their endeavors,” said Kendra Carter, Director of Talent Diversity Initiatives, NBCUniversal. “We look forward to provide these actors with the right platform that could launch their careers and allow an even greater audience to enjoy their talents.”

In addition to the paid trips to the ABFF in Miami, the Star Project winners will be introduced to the festival audience at The Winners Circle awards presentation on the closing day of the festival.

Emayatzy E. Corinealdi In 2010, Emayatzy E. Corinealdi was the Star Project winner. This year, she will appear in two starring roles on BET; the emotionally dramatic film, “Middle of Nowhere,” with Omari Hardwick, and the dramatic series “Gun Hill” with Larenz Tate.

Jeff Friday, founder and CEO of ABFF states, “I am pleased to provide a platform for fresh, hopeful, talented actors to get exposure. Through our commitment to the Star Project, we will continue to offer our winners opportunities to advance their careers as actors.” He adds, “Next year we plan to bring this contest to the web to provide more visibility for the finalists and the winners.”

Sherial McKinney bio:
Sherial McKinney Sherial McKinney, an Orange County native, was raised (along with her five sisters) by her adoptive family from the age of 10 years old. Taking an early interest in vocal performance and university-wide Shakespearean competitions, it came as no surprise when McKinney decided to pursue acting full time.

Though her professional career began just a few years ago, McKinney’s talent and determination have allowed her to work with hit director Melina Matsoukas in the UK release of Leona Lewis’s “Bleeding Love” as the dramatic lead, garner a lead role in the Netflix featured film “He’s on My Mind” (2009), and host for Style Network’s producers of Vimby.com. Recently, McKinney has also been seen in TV One’s newest series “Will to Live.”

Praised by industry talents such as Kym Whitley and Alphonso McAuley for her comedic timing, authenticity and dedication to her craft; the sky is the limit for this gifted young actress.

Robert Hunter Robert Hunter bio:
Robert Hunter is a Cleveland native who moved to Los Angeles at the age of 18. He started in theatre with the roles of Frank Elgin in the Clifford Odets play “The Country Girl” and East in John Cariani’s romantic comedy “Almost Maine.” Hunter made his film debut in 2011 when he starred in a short film entitled “LA Bros.” Hunter is a young actor who is focused on traveling and learning from the best.

HBO (Founding and Premier Sponsor); Gold Peak Tea (Premier); gmc Television Network, American Airlines, Cadillac and CNN (Official Sponsors); Grab Media, NBCUniversal, Nickelodeon, smartwater, Nielsen, BET Networks and Wells Fargo (Supporting Sponsors); The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority and Miami Community Redevelopment Agency (Host Sponsors) and SAGIndie, One Village Entertainment, Miami Film Month, thirdREEL (Promotional Partners); Media Sponsors include: Black Enterprise, Uptown (Official Level); Jones Magazine and Precious Times (Supporting Level).

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 abff.com.

PHOTOS: For finalist and winner photos, please visit www.ls-pr.com.

For more information on the ABFF Star Project competition, please visit: https://www.abff.com/miami/theStarProject/2012/.

Media contact: Lisa Sorensen, LSPR office: 646-330-5458, email: [email protected]

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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].