This Thursday I will be flying to New York for the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), one of the nation’s most prominent film festival. Originally called The Acapulco Black Film Festival, I got my first taste in the film industry, courtesy of two aspiring young men who had started a little known company called Rainforest Films in 2000.
Fourteen years later, I am proud to say ‘Opening night,’ to one of those friends, Will Power Packer. The Hollywood movie mogul will be premiering Screen Gems’ “Think Like a Man Too,” followed by a huge gala. This is the eagerly anticipated sequel to “Think Like a Man,” the star-studded romantic comedy based on Steve Harvey’s best-seller “Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man.”
A few other highlights of the week include ABFF’s Spotlight Screenings, and the hotly anticipated premiere of Moguldom Studios’ slick documentary, “A Genius Leaves the Hood: The Unauthorized Story of Jay Z,” which tells the story of one of hip hop’s most successful artists. This new film company is headed up by newly appointed President, Brett Dismuke. Brett will be spearheading the release of 6 additional films, including “Black Church, Inc”., later this year. Their films “Gunland” and “The Swirl” are currently available on iTunes, Google Play, Amazon, Xbox and Playstation.
But I am most excited to go in support of my best friend and a Nashville native, Rob Hardy’s project, “Amazing Story.” Rob Hardy shares these ‘amazing stories’ in a live one-man interactive stage show, where he gives an honest and unflinching look at the hidden pitfalls and endless possibilities that exist on the road to success. Rob Hardy re-tells seminal moments throughout his life that solidified his path to continued success as a film & TV director, producer, entrepreneur and family man.
For those who are unfamiliar with his name, you may be very familiar with his work. He has directed numerous TV episodes for series that include: Criminal Minds, Arrow, Castle, The Vampire Diaries, Bones, 90210, The Game, The Originals, Single Ladies, Ravenswood and Grey’s Anatomy. His Atlanta-based production company Rainforest Films, has produced hit movies including: Ride Along, Think Like a Man, Takers, Stomp the Yard, Obsessed, This Christmas, The Gospel and Trois. You can catch him directing new episodes of BET’s, Being Mary Jane this fall. Also look for plans of him taking this interactive show on the road to a city near you.
Closing the festival is the world premiere of Spike Lee’s most recent work, “Da Sweet Blood of Jesus,” a feature film that centers on humans who are addicted to blood.
Sharanda Nechole is a lifestyle specialist who has worked in event planning, music and film for over 2 decades. For more on what’s new, hot and exciting in urban Nashville follow her on Twitter @sharandanechole