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Thursday, September 21
 

6:00pm EDT

Opening Night Film - LOVE BY CHANCE

Join us for our opening night reception and for the screening of Love By Chance.  Director Samad Davis will be on hand for a Q&A immediately following the screening.  There will be a reception with light appetizers before the screening.

Two aspiring actors from South Africa who are independently in America trying to crack into an extremely difficult and over saturated Hollywood industry, meet by chance.  Between the everyday struggle of auditioning, dealing with daily rejection, self-doubt, financial hardship, crazy friends and a crazy dating scene, who has time for Love.

Director: Samad Davis | Writer: Dani Renee, Samad Davis |Producer: Samad Davis, Ty Johnston, Dumi Gumbi, Cati Weinek | Cast: Altovise Lawrence, Atandwa Kani, Terri J. Vaughn, Clifton Powell, E. Roger Mitchell, Lil Zane, Carl Anthony Payne II, Desi Banks


Runtime;106 Min


Speakers
avatar for Desi Banks

Desi Banks

Desi Terrell Banks Jr, Actor/Entertainer  was born May 9, 1993 in Atlanta Ga to mother Ulrica Monique Murray. Desi Terrell Banks, Jr. has been writing, performing, and producing comedy for over four years. Desi Banks was able to build his brand and display his comedy through social... Read More →
avatar for Samad Davis

Samad Davis

President/ CEO, Pan Africa Group Holdings & President of Motion Picture Equity Fund, LLC - ‎Pan Africa Group Holdings
Samad Davis is a true native of Newark, New Jersey (USA). Life and times in this colorful city gave him an understanding of the rhythm and value of stories from the streets. These were the stories of the have nots and the have all. Samad realized that he had to learn how to tell these... Read More →
avatar for Terri J Vaughn

Terri J Vaughn

Nina Holiday Entertainment
Terri J. Vaughn first stole America’s heart with her lovable portrayal of Lovita Alizay Jenkins on “The Steve Harvey Show” - where she was honored with three NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress for her work. Since then, this San Francisco native has proven... Read More →



Thursday September 21, 2017 6:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Breen Center for the Performing Arts 2008 W 30th St, Cleveland, OH 44113
  Special Event, Narrative

9:00pm EDT

Opening Night Mixer (following the film)
After "Love By Chance" captures your heart on the big screen, come do a little hand  shaking with the cast and the GCUFF crew at Touch Supper Club. Filmmaker Samad Davis, actor  Desi Banks and actress/GCUFF ambassador Terri J. Vaughn join us as we celebrate opening night and kick off this 9-day extravaganza better known as GCUFF year 6. 



Thursday September 21, 2017 9:00pm - Friday September 22, 2017 12:00pm EDT
Touch Supper Club 2710 Lorain Avenue
 
Friday, September 22
 

10:00am EDT

I Am Not Your Negro (Student Private Screening)
In 1979, James Baldwin wrote a letter to his literary agent describing his next project, "Remember This House." The book was to be a revolutionary, personal account of the lives and assassinations of three of his close friends: Medgar Evers, Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. At the time of Baldwin's death in 1987, he left behind only 30 completed pages of this manuscript. Filmmaker Raoul Peck envisions the book James Baldwin never finished.

Friday September 22, 2017 10:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
  Private Screening
  • Community Partner(s) A Cultural Exchange

1:00pm EDT

Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess
She was a queen captured in her homeland, and forcibly transported across the Atlantic Ocean in the belly of a slave ship. In the New World, she would eventually rise up to become the leader of a new nation – of free Africans. However, not many people outside of Jamaica know of the legendary "Nanny," warrior chieftainess of the Jamaican Maroons, one of the most celebrated, but least recognized heroines in the resistance history of the New World.

Director: Roy T Anderson
Runtime: 59 min


Friday September 22, 2017 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

1:30pm EDT

Woven
Ethiopian-born Elenie Tariku is merely attempting to integrate her mother's traditions with her own dreams. That is until her life is destroyed by a mysterious crime in New York that takes the life of her only brother. As Elenie searches for the truth behind his death, her life intertwines with an intriguing man whose own personal turmoil brings them together for better or worse.

Directors: Nagwa Ibrahim, Salome Mulugeta
Runtime: 96 min


Friday September 22, 2017 1:30pm - 3:06pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

2:30pm EDT

The Last Revolutionary
Mac Perkins is in his Los Angeles hideout, plotting to stop an attack from the far right and racist groups around the country.  When his buddy Jack Armstrong, whom he hasn't seen in several years, finds him.  Jack challenges Mac's notion that there is a need for a so-called revolution.
The two men hash out political ideas and ideology as Jack attempts to make Mac see that his methods and plans are archaic. During the dramatic and humorous interchange between these two old friends, secrets are exposed about both men personally and politically that lead to a life and death confrontation. 

Director: Michael Brewer
Runtime: 76 min


Friday September 22, 2017 2:30pm - 3:45pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

3:40pm EDT

All We Need is Another Chance
Reginald Prophet Haynes spent his days singing in the stairwell and his nights sticking up liquor stores. Charged with armed robbery at age 18, he pled guilty and was sent to Trenton State Prison to serve 19 years. He knew his life was about to change but could not have fathomed the direction it took. Two years later, after being transferred to Rahway State Prison, his path would cross with that of renowned Motown producer George Kerr. This set the course for history to be made. "All We Need Is Another Chance" is a soaring tribute to the power of music to transform lives.

Director: Corbett Jones
Run Time: 72 mins


Friday September 22, 2017 3:40pm - 5:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

4:30pm EDT

Fight Hate with Love
Michael Tabon found himself stuck in the revolving door of a criminal justice system he calls the “womb-to-prison” pipeline - a cycle many poor young black men struggle to break. In and out of jail since he was 16, Tabon has finally managed to stay free, strongly motivated by his newfound passion for activism. In order to prevent others (especially his son) from falling into the same trap, he travels to high-crime neighborhoods, finding unique and provocative ways to call attention to the issue. But after years of separation, his family is frustrated by his obsessive dedication to his cause. Like prison, it’s prevented them from experiencing quality time together. "Fight Hate With Love" provides a damning exposé of our country’s failed prison system chronicling one man’s very personal fight to fix it. 

Director: Andrew Michael Ellis
Runtime: 82 min


Friday September 22, 2017 4:30pm - 6:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

5:30pm EDT

Shorts1: Served l Old E l Psuedo l See You Yesterday

Served  (23 min) Follows the story of two adolescent sisters Heart & Hope whose mother has been shockingly arrested and prepare for her to go to prison. The major themes I focused on in my short were the plight children of incarcerated parents carry and the rising number of women going to prison.
Director: Akiya Mcknight

Old E (15 min) Demarkus Jackson, a young basketball star from South Central Los Angeles, pursues his dreams in the face of his abusive, drunken father who cannot overcome the failures of his past.
Director: Xavier Neal-Burgin

Psuedo (7 min) To see through the eyes of another requires each one of us to challenge what we have been conditioned to see. Do you see what I see?
Directors: Julien Turner (19) and Justen Turner (14)

See You Yesterday (15 min) Presented by Spike Lee, two Brooklyn teenage prodigies, C.J. Walker and Sebastian Thomas - determined to outwit fate and role-play as God - build make-shift time machines to save CJ's brother, Calvin, from being wrongfully killed by a police officer.
Director: Stefon Bristol


Friday September 22, 2017 5:30pm - 6:20pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

5:30pm EDT

Gallery Exhibit Opening
Experience "A Beautiful Burden" from the eye of artist Donald Black Jr.
This photographic journey is free and open to the public.

Speakers
avatar for Donald Black Jr

Donald Black Jr

There is a very pleasing story about photographer Donald Black Jr. and his desire to be an artist.  At a young age, Black instinctively recognized there was something missing from art world in Cleveland. He felt disconnected from art because he didn’t see himself in the works that... Read More →


Friday September 22, 2017 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
The Reel Lounge 13205 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

6:30pm EDT

90 Days
Join us for this short film screening followed by a panel discussion with the 90 Days team.
Sponsored by AHF

Taylor​ ​is​ ​preparing​ ​for​ ​a​ ​date​ ​with​ ​his​ ​girlfriend,​ ​Jessica,​ ​to celebrate​ ​three​ ​months​ ​of​ ​dating.​ ​They​ ​have​ ​waited​ ​ninety​ ​days​ ​to have​ ​sex​ ​because​ ​they​ ​both​ ​agreed​ ​that​ ​sex​ ​gets​ ​in​ ​the​ ​way​ ​of truly​ ​getting​ ​to​ ​know​ ​your​ ​partner.​ ​ Still,​ ​Taylor​ ​is​ ​sure​ ​that​ ​Jessica is​ ​the​ ​woman​ ​for​ ​him​ ​and​ ​intends​ ​to​ ​propose​ ​marriage.​  ​His​ ​best friend,​ ​Qwynn,​ ​thinks​ ​that​ ​he​ ​is​ ​crazy​ ​and​ ​encourages​ ​him​ ​to​ ​wait until​ ​after​ ​their​ ​relationship​ ​has​ ​been​ ​consummated​ ​when​ ​he knows​ ​more​ ​about​ ​her.​  ​Undeterred,​ ​Taylor​ ​has​ ​the​ ​ring​ ​and​ ​heads to​ ​Jessica’s​ ​for​ ​their​ ​dinner​ ​and​ ​to​ ​propose.  ​Confronted​ ​with​ ​a case​ ​of​ ​cold​ ​feet,​ ​Taylor​ ​calls​ ​his​ ​no-nonsense​ ​mother​ ​who reassures​ ​him​ ​that​ ​he​ ​is​ ​not​ ​moving​ ​too​ ​fast​ ​and​ ​that​ ​Jessica​ ​is​ ​a wonderful​ ​woman. ​ ​All​ ​is​ ​well,​ ​until​ ​Jessica​ ​reveals​ ​the​ ​true​ ​reason why​ ​she​ ​asked​ ​to​ ​wait​ ​ninety​ ​days. 

Free Community Screening 

Tickets available at Shaker Square Cinemas Box Office ( the day of the show only).
Limited availability
First come first serve


 

Speakers
avatar for Sol Aponte

Sol Aponte

Originally from Belleville, New Jersey, Sol Aponte is a two time Emmy Award nominee who has been working in the entertainment industry for all of his adult life. At age 18, he began working for one of the biggest music marketing and promotions company on the East Coast where he... Read More →
avatar for Jennia Fredrique Aponte

Jennia Fredrique Aponte

Jennia Fredique Aponte is a writer, director and actress.  Originally from Gary Indiana, Jennia attended Columbia University's School of Theater and has been a comedic acting power house for over a decade.  As an actor she has held series regular and recurring roles on NBC, CW... Read More →
avatar for Talib Mahdi

Talib Mahdi

Talib Mahdi is a 67 year old African-American who was diagnosed HIV + in 1985. At that time, being diagnosed with HIV was tantamount to a death sentence. The stigma of this diagnosis made him feel like a leper in American society. Faced with the prospect of death and being ostracized... Read More →

Sponsors


Friday September 22, 2017 6:30pm - 7:45pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

7:00pm EDT

The Lion's Crumbs

Special Premiere Screening and Conversation with Terri J Vaughn

The Lion’s Crumbs a comedic short film exploring the ever-debatable topic of marriage roles. Our married couple, Luke and Laura, debate over gender roles, expectations and "man of the house" obligations.  These very real and comedic conversations happen while having dinner with friends, at a therapy session, while hanging with the neighborhood fellas and then while attending a church group.  In the end Laura realizes that accepting her family’s flaws and cleaning up their crumbs is just a way to show her love.  Luke insists that he would do anything for Laura, but a little ‘puff-puff-pass-pass’ is the best way for any husband to have a peaceful marriage. 

 

 

Starring: Terri J. Vaughn, Karon Joseph Riley, Rod Minger, Avery Sunshine, Denise Armstrong

 Written by Terri J. Vaughn and Karon Joseph Riley

 Directed by Terri J. Vaughn

  

Moderators
Speakers
avatar for Terri J Vaughn

Terri J Vaughn

Nina Holiday Entertainment
Terri J. Vaughn first stole America’s heart with her lovable portrayal of Lovita Alizay Jenkins on “The Steve Harvey Show” - where she was honored with three NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress for her work. Since then, this San Francisco native has proven... Read More →



Friday September 22, 2017 7:00pm - 8:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

8:00pm EDT

AHF Reception for 90 Days

Complimentary admission for attendees of 90 Days film screening, all access passholders and invited guest. 

Speakers
avatar for Jennia Fredrique Aponte

Jennia Fredrique Aponte

Jennia Fredique Aponte is a writer, director and actress.  Originally from Gary Indiana, Jennia attended Columbia University's School of Theater and has been a comedic acting power house for over a decade.  As an actor she has held series regular and recurring roles on NBC, CW... Read More →

Filmmakers
avatar for Sol Aponte

Sol Aponte

Originally from Belleville, New Jersey, Sol Aponte is a two time Emmy Award nominee who has been working in the entertainment industry for all of his adult life. At age 18, he began working for one of the biggest music marketing and promotions company on the East Coast where he... Read More →

Sponsors

Friday September 22, 2017 8:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Fashions By Fowler 13119 Shaker Square Cleveland, OH 44120

8:15pm EDT

#Digital Lives Matter
A comedic film that teams up the hilarious social media kings, DC Young Fly and Emmanuel Hudson, and marks the directorial debut of funny girl, Terri J. Vaughn.  DC Young Fly is on top of the world with his over 3 million followers, and his fame is growing with every one of his posts. However, when this social media influencer crosses the wrong computer geek, all hell breaks loose and DC wakes up to find all of his followers are gone!  This catastrophe couldn’t happen on a worse day!  DC has a career-changing audition, and he actually needs at least a million followers to even get in the door.  DC has one day to find his followers, get them back and make it to his audition.

Director: Terri J. Vaughn
Runtime: 93 min



Friday September 22, 2017 8:15pm - 9:45pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

8:30pm EDT

Holy Hustle
A quick-witted con artist and his straight-laced brother, on the run from gangsters, scheme their way into pastoring a down-trodden rural church to hideaway while hustling the saints to scrape up the loot they owe.

Director: Mark A. Cummings
Runtime: 110 min



Friday September 22, 2017 8:30pm - 10:20pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

10:00pm EDT

GCUFF Official Launch Party w/ Zo! + Carmen Rodgers
Zo! + Carmen Rodgers return to Cleveland to ROCK the Greater Cleveland Urban Film Festival Official Launch Party!

Backed by Collective Peace
Party: 10p - 2a

Zo!'s 'Making SkyBreak' documentary is also an Official Selection to GCUFF 2017!


Friday September 22, 2017 10:00pm - Saturday September 23, 2017 2:00am EDT
Take 5 Jazz Lounge 740 W Superior Ave Cleveland 44114
 
Saturday, September 23
 

11:00am EDT

Filmmakers Power Breakfast
Filmmakers Power Breakfast -industry leaders sit down with filmmakers to answer questions one on one, hear pitches, get valuable insight;

Complimentary admission for filmmaker passholders
Limited Tickets Available $20



Moderators
avatar for Breyuna Williams

Breyuna Williams

Ms. Williams serves as Williams & Floyd LLC’s Managing Partner. A thoughtful entertainment lawyer with more than 10 years’ experience in entertainment law, Breyuna focuses her practice on transactional law with an emphasis on the motion picture, television, music, and multimedia... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Dianne Ashford

Dianne Ashford

CEO & President, Symmetry Entertainment
From an internship with Will Packer of Rainforest Films in 2001, Diane Ashford quickly learned the business. Diane now serves as CEO and President of Symmetry Entertainment where she has been producing and line producing for more than 10 years now.Some of her projects include titles... Read More →
avatar for Brett Dismuke

Brett Dismuke

So Chi Entertainment
Before launching his own entertainment outfit, Brett Dismuke served as President/COO of The Swirl Group, President of Moguldom Entertainment, and previously as the Senior Vice President of Acquisitions and Urban Programming for RLJ Entertainment's One Village studio. Brett has over... Read More →
avatar for Marty Fox

Marty Fox

Allied Integrated Marketing
Since joining Allied in 2000, Marty has worked on hundreds of publicity and promotional campaigns for film studios such as Walt Disney Pictures, 20th Century Fox, Miramax Films, The Weinstein Company, Focus Features, Sony, Lionsgate, STX Entertainment and Broad Green Pictures.  Along... Read More →
avatar for John Luteran

John Luteran

Director of Interactive Entertainment/Media, Greater Cleveland Film Commission
John Luteran is the Director of Interactive Entertainment/Media at the Greater Cleveland Film Commission. In addition to being in charge of all marketing and communications efforts for the organization, John works to grow the areas of game development, virtual and augmented reality... Read More →

Filmmakers
avatar for Samad Davis

Samad Davis

President/ CEO, Pan Africa Group Holdings & President of Motion Picture Equity Fund, LLC - ‎Pan Africa Group Holdings
Samad Davis is a true native of Newark, New Jersey (USA). Life and times in this colorful city gave him an understanding of the rhythm and value of stories from the streets. These were the stories of the have nots and the have all. Samad realized that he had to learn how to tell these... Read More →


Saturday September 23, 2017 11:00am - 1:00pm EDT
Zanzibar Soul Fusion Restaurant 13225 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

12:00pm EDT

Shorts 3: 95 Never Looked So Good l The Man Who Feared l Full Service l Tom Freeman of the North l Padlock Men

95 Never Looked So Good (9)
This Documentary highlights Simeon Holloway accomplishments from early beginings to the prominent historical record of his involvement in the elite first all Black US B-1 Navy Band.
Director: Tymm Holloway

The Man Who Feared ( 8 min) 
A young white urban professional has moved into his newly purchased home in a predominantly black neighborhood; his attempts to remain inconspicuous finally runs its course after a misread encounter with a fellow community member.
Director: Jehnovah Carlisle

Full Service (16 min) Abike, a Nigerian born oil industry executive and a Christian, is driving to a friend's country house when she realizes her tank is needling towards empty. She pulls into the only station she can find where she is greeted by Scott, a local who inherited his business from his grandfather. Scott has never met anyone like Abike, which leads him to make a stream of assumptions about her based on stereotypes and unexamined racial biases. When Abike challenges him, with a mixture of bold humor and equally bold gravitas, he is left to ponder their commonalties and her power. Full Service explores the effects of globalization on local economies and culture, our propensity to stereotype others, and the fact that we are all more complex than we see
Director:  KPage Stuart Valdes

Tom Freeman of the North (18 min) A young black Harlemite named Tom, who interns at a start-up that just opened up in his neighborhood, is invited to his boss's housewarming party off of Malcolm X Boulevard. While Tom is looking forward to use this opportunity to move up the ranks by gifting his boss with a jar of artisanal mayonnaise, his brother, Desean, sees this party as symbol for the rapid gentrification of Harlem and the oppression of his people. Struggling to find a common ground between moving up and doing what's right, the two brothers go to the party only to discover that artisanal mayonnaise isn't what it's cracked up to be.
Director: Mohammed Rabbani

Padlock Men (16 min) 86 yr. old Walter “Posey” Fodrell shares a memoir of a historically unknown secret pact between Martin Luther King, Malcolm X & John F. Kennedy. 'Blood for Blood Knuckles Dirty' the Civil Rights movement will never be viewed the same. A History Never Spoke A Bond Never Broken
Director:  Lewis Powell


Saturday September 23, 2017 12:00pm - 1:15pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

12:30pm EDT

Shorts 2: Hold On l Trash Bags l Intersection l Hope For Dating In LA

Hold On ( 9 min) 
Family bonds are tested when a young man is left to care for his grandmother one morning.
Director: Chiristine Turner

Trash Bags ( 9 min)
A former couple is forced to refelcetover the degradation of their relationship.
Director: Diante Singley

Intersection ( 9 min)
A road trip forces a young woman and her two best friends to examine their identities and place in the American South
Director:  Angela Tucker

Hope For Dating In LA ( 30 min) 
Hope (played by Joslyn Pennywell from America's next Top Model), Serenity and Darin are three professional, pretty ladies living in Los Angeles. Each has everything going for them career wise, but the LA dating scene has them down. They get an idea surrounding an online dating site that turns into a disaster, but ultimately keeps them hopeful.
Director: DaVida Chanel Smith



Saturday September 23, 2017 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

1:30pm EDT

Show Me the Money: Development to Distribution
What every filmmaker needs to know to achieve success in this business 

Moderators
avatar for Tiffany Tarpley

Tiffany Tarpley

Anchor/Reporter, NBC Affiliate WKYC TV 3

Speakers
avatar for Dianne Ashford

Dianne Ashford

CEO & President, Symmetry Entertainment
From an internship with Will Packer of Rainforest Films in 2001, Diane Ashford quickly learned the business. Diane now serves as CEO and President of Symmetry Entertainment where she has been producing and line producing for more than 10 years now.Some of her projects include titles... Read More →
avatar for Jacque Edmonds Cofer

Jacque Edmonds Cofer

Jacquelyn Edmonds Cofer Jacque Edmonds Cofer attended Princeton University, graduating with an A.B. in Politics. She also earned an M.B.A. at the Harvard Business School. After her graduation from HBS she left corporate life to become a television writer and producer. Her first network... Read More →
avatar for Samad Davis

Samad Davis

President/ CEO, Pan Africa Group Holdings & President of Motion Picture Equity Fund, LLC - ‎Pan Africa Group Holdings
Samad Davis is a true native of Newark, New Jersey (USA). Life and times in this colorful city gave him an understanding of the rhythm and value of stories from the streets. These were the stories of the have nots and the have all. Samad realized that he had to learn how to tell these... Read More →
avatar for Brett Dismuke

Brett Dismuke

So Chi Entertainment
Before launching his own entertainment outfit, Brett Dismuke served as President/COO of The Swirl Group, President of Moguldom Entertainment, and previously as the Senior Vice President of Acquisitions and Urban Programming for RLJ Entertainment's One Village studio. Brett has over... Read More →



Saturday September 23, 2017 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
The Reel Lounge 13205 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

1:45pm EDT

Shorts 4 : All Eyes on Emma l S0.CI3.TY l Lawman l Iman & The Light Warrior
All Eyes on Emma 5
 In this horror thriller, a college professor (Peter Lawson Jones) is cursed to keep his eyes fixated on a beautiful statue-like girl every night when the sun goes down. In exchange for an A in his class, he hires one of his students to help free him from the curse.
Director: Matthew Leslie

So. CI3.ty (27 min)
J0.hn, an emotionless and regulated citizen of THE CITY, awakes on a deserted island 10, 000 miles away from civilization. Equipped with the R3G, a symbiotic watch ruled by a very advanced A.I that regulate his emotions and keeps him indefinitely "operational," J0.hn starts to plan his own rescue but things get radically complicated... 
Director: Khris Burton

Lawman (15 min)
1875, Indian Territory. Bass Reeves, is the first African-American to be deputized by the U.S. Marshal service. When Bass charges into the desert, he engages in a shootout with two outlaws, Maha and Glen Huddleston, also African-American. Bass kills Maha in the gunfight, and arrests Glen, ordering him to carry Maha’s body across the desert back to Fort Smith. Over the course of their journey, Glen questions Bass’ choice of career and tries to psych Bass out in an unorthodox attempt at escape, a tactic that works as Bass begins to question his own mind in regards to the idea of justice and choosing to fight for a law and a country that may never fight for him.
Directed by Matthew Gentile

Iman & the Light Warrior (15 min)
10 year-old Iman navigates through a war-ravaged City of Aya with the help of the Light Warriors to express his feelings to his school crush in order to unlock his superpower.
Writer: Osahon Tongo      


Saturday September 23, 2017 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

2:00pm EDT

Daddy Don't Go
Free Community Screening 
Tickets available at Shaker Square Cinemas Box Office ( the day of the show only).
Limited availability  
First come first serve


"Daddy Don't Go" is a feature length documentary about four disadvantaged fathers in New York City as they struggle to beat the odds and defy the deadbeat dad stereotype.

Director: Emily Abt
Runtime: 98 min



Saturday September 23, 2017 2:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

3:30pm EDT

Working The Biz
Working the Biz When you get the call back then what?Learn from the experts what it takes to achieve success in the industry. Francesca  Francois- GrimaldiTerri J VaughnLillian Powell

Moderators
Speakers
avatar for Leah Daniels Butler

Leah Daniels Butler

Leah Daniels-Butler is a casting director and producer responsible for launching the careers of talentedactors like Gaborey Sidebe, star of the Academy Award winning film "Precious", and other notables. Shecurrently serves as Casting Director for television's #1 show, "Empire" on... Read More →
avatar for Francesca Francois-Grimaldi

Francesca Francois-Grimaldi

CEO & Agent, Plaza 7 Talent Agency
Plaza 7 Talent Agency is a full service talent agency with branches in New York City and King of Prussia, PA representing actors, writers, directors and producers. Prior to Plaza 7, Francesca worked with international news agency Reuters LLC in their Sales and Editorial departments. An... Read More →
avatar for Terri J Vaughn

Terri J Vaughn

Nina Holiday Entertainment
Terri J. Vaughn first stole America’s heart with her lovable portrayal of Lovita Alizay Jenkins on “The Steve Harvey Show” - where she was honored with three NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress for her work. Since then, this San Francisco native has proven... Read More →


Saturday September 23, 2017 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
The Reel Lounge 13205 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

3:30pm EDT

Shorts 5 : Instance l Print Shop l A Father's Love

Instance (30)

An idealistic art teacher befriends a troubled teenage boy in her class, but when she is accused of an instance of inappropriate behavior, it becomes unclear who the actual victim really is.
This 30-minute short is
Director: Teria Birlon and Nicholas Casucci


PRINT SHOP (30 min)
What happens when a young, aspiring fashion designer from North Philadelphia creates Rest in Peace t-shirts to honor slain victims of violence in his community? Director Christian Nolan Jones explores life through R.I.P. tees in the "Print Shop."
Director: Christian Nolan Jones


 A Father's Love (27 min)
Choosing between saving one life and hundreds of lives should be easy, unless that one life is your daughters.

Director: Emily Mathason

 

 



Saturday September 23, 2017 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

4:00pm EDT

Dispatches From Cleveland

Free Community Screening 
Tickets available at Shaker Square Cinemas Box Office ( the day of the show only).
Limited availability  
First come first serve


"Dispatches From Cleveland" is a 5-part, feature-length documentary that closely examines the early 21st century rust-belt city of Cleveland, Ohio.  Cleveland is one of the most racially divided cities in America.  The film follows ordinary people - long shaken by police misconduct, social discrimination and poverty - whose love for their home pushes them to work together to bring about real change ​in the aftermath of the police killing of 12-year-old Tamir Rice​.

Director: Catherine Gund
Runtime: 72 min




Saturday September 23, 2017 4:00pm - 5:15pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

5:30pm EDT

Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Black Colleges and Universities
In the decades before the civil rights movement was possible in the American landscape, another sector quietly, but steadily worked to erode the inequities in American life. Though much of its history was eclipsed by the explosiveness of the 1960s, the nation’s historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) shaped black life creating a Black middle class and dismantling segregation.
Building a vibrant mosaic of events, stories and characters, "Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Black Colleges and Universities" traces the persistent belief in education’s power to transform and advance the black community even in the country’s most dire eras of racial intolerance.

Director: Stanley Nelson
Runtime: 85 min

Filmmakers


Saturday September 23, 2017 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
  Film Screening, Documentary

5:30pm EDT

Monologue Competition

Actors compete for prizes with value up $500. The  Monologue Contest is designed to have actors perform and showcase their talent in front of a panel of industry professionals in a extremely tight time frame: It will also gives our industry pros on the panel the opportunity to see your talent quickly. 

Entry Fee:  $25   Attendee Fee:  $12


Performance guidelines for monologue contest

  • All monologues must be limited to a maximum of two minutes in length.
  • If you exceed two minutes you will not be eligible for consideration as finalists.
  • Finalists will be chosen by the judges. All decisions are final.
  • Simple set pieces such as a table, chair and stool will be available for use.
  • Begin your monologue with a short introduction. This is not included in the two-minute time-frame allotted. Time will not begin until the participant speaks the first word of the monologue or begins an action in character.
  • Be sure that introductions consist of your name and the name of the piece from which the monologue is taken.
  • No costumes, as such, should be used. Costume accessories or hand props, however, are allowed.
  • Competition is open to all legal US citizens ages 16 and older as of September 15, 2017.

Moderators
avatar for Desi Banks

Desi Banks

Desi Terrell Banks Jr, Actor/Entertainer  was born May 9, 1993 in Atlanta Ga to mother Ulrica Monique Murray. Desi Terrell Banks, Jr. has been writing, performing, and producing comedy for over four years. Desi Banks was able to build his brand and display his comedy through social... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Leah Daniels Butler

Leah Daniels Butler

Leah Daniels-Butler is a casting director and producer responsible for launching the careers of talentedactors like Gaborey Sidebe, star of the Academy Award winning film "Precious", and other notables. Shecurrently serves as Casting Director for television's #1 show, "Empire" on... Read More →
avatar for Francesca Francois-Grimaldi

Francesca Francois-Grimaldi

CEO & Agent, Plaza 7 Talent Agency
Plaza 7 Talent Agency is a full service talent agency with branches in New York City and King of Prussia, PA representing actors, writers, directors and producers. Prior to Plaza 7, Francesca worked with international news agency Reuters LLC in their Sales and Editorial departments. An... Read More →
avatar for Lillian Pyles

Lillian Pyles

Lillian Pyles, CSA Casting Director While living in New York City she began her film and television career as an Assistant Production Coordinator and Production Secretary on numerous television and feature film projects., working with an impressive range of well known directors... Read More →
avatar for Terri J Vaughn

Terri J Vaughn

Nina Holiday Entertainment
Terri J. Vaughn first stole America’s heart with her lovable portrayal of Lovita Alizay Jenkins on “The Steve Harvey Show” - where she was honored with three NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress for her work. Since then, this San Francisco native has proven... Read More →


Saturday September 23, 2017 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
The Reel Lounge 13205 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

6:15pm EDT

Shorts 6: Sacred Heart l Me Myself & Them l The Bill l Lemonade Mafia l 90 Days
Sacred Heart (15 min) 
Nichel meets an intriguing man at a bar named Alexander and begins an uninhibited sexual and emotional affair with him, which prompts an intellectual and sensual awakening. She speaks candidly to her therapist about her need to be controlled and the satisfaction she gets from her escapism. Nichel and Alexanders affair take them both down an unexpected road where they are forced to face their demons and explore the truth about love.
Directors: Sol Aponte, Jennia Fredrique

Me Myself & Them Me (21 min)
Myself and Them is a story about one man's view on love and relationships and the women who don't understand WHY.
Director: Issac Taylor

The Bill (10 mins)
Barbie’s 35th birthday celebration brings together her diverse group of friends. When the bill arrives, the best intentions dissolve into drama.  
Director: Caralene Robinson | Executive Producers: Deborah Riley Draper & Caralene Robinson | Producer: Crystal Whaley | Principle Cast: Nakima Baker, Perri Camper, Tanyika Carey, Szalene Anthony, Talisa Patterson, Angelique Chapman, Nicole Belit, Kara Green, Tiffany Jackson, Sundae Van Allen, Nicole Sutherland, Narci Regina, Perry King, Myriam Wilson, Rocky Lizardi

Lemonade Mafia (10 min)
Kira’s organic lemonade dynasty is in jeopardy when newcomer Shantel moves in on her territory with her high-fructose corn sugar version of lemonade. It’s an all-out neighborhood war in a good-natured battle of wills between competing kid entrepreneurs in this light-hearted comedy for all ages. 
Directed by:Anya Adams

90 Days (20 min)
Taylor​ ​is​ ​preparing​ ​for​ ​a​ ​date​ ​with​ ​his​ ​girlfriend,​ ​Jessica,​ ​to  celebrate​ ​three​ ​months​ ​of​ ​dating.​ ​They​ ​have​ ​waited​ ​ninety​ ​days​ ​to  have​ ​sex​ ​because​ ​they​ ​both​ ​agreed​ ​that​ ​sex​ ​gets​ ​in​ ​the​ ​way​ ​of  truly​ ​getting​ ​to​ ​know​ ​your​ ​partner.​ ​Still,​ ​Taylor​ ​is​ ​sure​ ​that​ ​Jessica  is​ ​the​ ​woman​ ​for​ ​him​ ​and​ ​intends​ ​to​ ​propose​ ​marriage.​ ​His​ ​best  friend,​ ​Qwynn,​ ​thinks​ ​that​ ​he​ ​is​ ​crazy​ ​and​ ​encourages​ ​him​ ​to​ ​wait  until​ ​after​ ​their​ ​relationship​ ​has​ ​been​ ​consummated​ ​when​ ​he  knows​ ​more​ ​about​ ​her.​ ​Undeterred,​ ​Taylor​ ​has​ ​the​ ​ring​ ​and​ ​heads  to​ ​Jessica’s​ ​for​ ​their​ ​dinner​ ​and​ ​to​ ​propose.​ ​Confronted​ ​with​ ​a  case​ ​of​ ​cold​ ​feet,​ ​Taylor​ ​calls​ ​his​ ​no-nonsense​ ​mother​ ​who  reassures​ ​him​ ​that​ ​he​ ​is​ ​not​ ​moving​ ​too​ ​fast​ ​and​ ​that​ ​Jessica​ ​is​ ​a  wonderful​ ​woman.​ ​All​ ​is​ ​well,​ ​until​ ​Jessica​ ​reveals​ ​the​ ​true​ ​reason  why​ ​she​ ​asked​ ​to​ ​wait​ ​ninety​ ​days. 

Saturday September 23, 2017 6:15pm - 7:45pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

7:00pm EDT

FunkJazz Kafé: Diary Of A Decade
An award-winning music and social culture documentary that conveys the evolution of black music and culture as told by its pioneers and next generation music innovators spanning the late '80s through the early 2000s. Narrated by Chuck D with appearances by Erykah Badu, Jamie Foxx, Janelle Monae, Jill Scott, Common, Cee Lo Green, Dr. Cornel West, Outkast, Dick Gregory, George Clinton, Public Enemy, Doug E. Fresh and many others.  This critically acclaimed film is a model for invigorating cultural arts communities through cultural preservation, sustainability, education and innovation.

PRODUCED, WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY JASON ORR
Runtime: 117 min

Part 2: Follow by: Soul In The City - Live Neo Soul Music / DJ Fusion with live performances by: ► Reagan Gray + Dion Davis + Chandra Raye + Brady Lamont + EJ & The Animals Band & more.... 
Followed by The Drummer/DJ Party
Enjoy Live Music : Exclusive Venue : Food Menu Available • Sections/Table Service • 
 At The All New Theater @ PL►Y #SoulintheCityCLE#OneSexyNight #LiveMusic #ThisisCLE #OpenMic

*THIS IS A SEPARATE EVENT - You Can Purchase Tickets For This Event athttp://SoulInTheCityCLE.com

Filmmakers
avatar for Jason Orr

Jason Orr

Jason Orr is a filmmaker, culture analyst, marketer, consultant, music producer and producer of arts & music festival programs that creatively integrates unique individuals, lifestyle brands and products. For over twenty three years, he has been responsible for conceptualizing, developing... Read More →



Saturday September 23, 2017 7:00pm - Sunday September 24, 2017 9:30pm EDT
PLAY Arcade + Kitchen 5900 Mayfield Rd, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124

7:30pm EDT

Taste of Shaker Square
Last year's inaugural event was a hit and we're back to TOSS things up again at the 2nd annual Taste of Shaker Square (#TOSS). TOSS is a fundraiser put on by friends of the Greater Cleveland Urban Film Festival to support the Greater Cleveland Urban Film Foundation. This Saturday Night Sampler inlcudes food from participating resturants around Shaker Square, live entertainment, film previews, an interactive crowd experience and much more. For tickets and further information, visit www.tasteofshakersquare.com.


Saturday September 23, 2017 7:30pm - 9:30pm EDT
The Reel Lounge 13205 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

7:45pm EDT

90 Minutes of the Fever
The McGees are a typical nuclear family: a son who can’t keep a job; a daughter who is a freshman in college and has just found out she’s pregnant; a wife who has been taken for granted too long; and the dad who is oblivious to it all. But like clockwork, the family is gathered around the dinner table to watch the lotto numbers being drawn for Jackpot Sunday. But this Sunday will be different. As the numbers are about to be drawn the telecast is interrupted by an emergency broadcast announcing that martial law has been declared nationwide and a mysterious computer virus has taken over the phones, TV and Internet, replacing every signal with a ticking countdown that started at 90 minutes. Panic sets in and no one knows what will happen next as the next 90 minutes unfolds.

Director: Michael Sean Hall
Writers: Michael Sean Hall, Michael Sean Hall
Stars: Parker McKenna Posey, Glenn Plummer, Marcus T. Paulk
Runtime: 106 min


Saturday September 23, 2017 7:45pm - 9:30pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

8:00pm EDT

As Evil Does
"When a Christian and atheist meet, all hell breaks loose!"
This mystery/suspense/thriller follows two young evangelists seemingly on a friendly pursuit of conversation about religion and God when they come upon a staunch atheist. The existence of God takes a dark, sinister turn for the worst resulting in beastly survival instincts against supernatural forces, mayhem and heinous torture.

Director: Yolanda Buggs
Stars: Bill Cobbs, Dorian Missick, Karl L. Sanders
Runtime: 117 mins 


Saturday September 23, 2017 8:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

9:00pm EDT

Soul In The City
Soul In The City - Live Music & DJ Party

Featuring Live Performances by:
Dre Walton, Qui, Dion Davis & Chandra Raye  

With Live Band + Hosted by: Micah Dixon & Big Steve
Saturday, September 23 : 9p • 2a
@ The Theater @ PLAY Mayfield 5900 Mayfield Rd. Mayfield Heights  
Tables/Sections • Food Menu • Free Parking Available #SoulintheCityCLE 

Online Tickets: 
General Admission $15 each (Standing Room)
Reserved Seating $20 each (Great View of Performance: Food & Table Service) 
*Reserved & VIP Seating areas are First Come, First Seated basis


Doors at 8:30p :
Open Mic Performances backed by Band: Singers/Poets
Live Performance by: Dre Walton + Qui + Dion Davis + Chandra 
Followed By Live DJ/Drummer Set by: DJ & EJ The Drummer 
#LiveMusic #OpenMic #OneSexyNight #ThisIsCle

This event is pwered by: 365 Events + Z107.9FM + Word of Mouth + 93.1FM
*All Tickets Non Transferable & Non Refundable 



 



Saturday September 23, 2017 9:00pm - Sunday September 24, 2017 2:00am EDT
PLAY Arcade + Kitchen 5900 Mayfield Rd, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
 
Sunday, September 24
 

12:00pm EDT

Shorts 6: Sacred Heart l Me Myself & Them l Lemonade Mafia l The Bill l 90 Days
Sacred Heart (15 min) 
Nichel meets an intriguing man at a bar named Alexander and begins an uninhibited sexual and emotional affair with him, which prompts an intellectual and sensual awakening. She speaks candidly to her therapist about her need to be controlled and the satisfaction she gets from her escapism. Nichel and Alexanders affair take them both down an unexpected road where they are forced to face their demons and explore the truth about love.
Directors: Sol Aponte, Jennia Fredrique

Me Myself & Them Me (21 min)
Myself and Them is a story about one man's view on love and relationships and the women who don't understand WHY.
Director: Issac Taylor

The Bill (10 mins)
Barbie’s 35th birthday celebration brings together her diverse group of friends. When the bill arrives, the best intentions dissolve into drama.  
Director: Caralene Robinson | Executive Producers: Deborah Riley Draper & Caralene Robinson | Producer: Crystal Whaley | Principle Cast: Nakima Baker, Perri Camper, Tanyika Carey, Szalene Anthony, Talisa Patterson, Angelique Chapman, Nicole Belit, Kara Green, Tiffany Jackson, Sundae Van Allen, Nicole Sutherland, Narci Regina, Perry King, Myriam Wilson, Rocky Lizardi

Lemonade Mafia (10 min)
Kira’s organic lemonade dynasty is in jeopardy when newcomer Shantel moves in on her territory with her high-fructose corn sugar version of lemonade. It’s an all-out neighborhood war in a good-natured battle of wills between competing kid entrepreneurs in this light-hearted comedy for all ages. 
Directed by:Anya Adams


90 Days (20 min)
Taylor​ ​is​ ​preparing​ ​for​ ​a​ ​date​ ​with​ ​his​ ​girlfriend,​ ​Jessica,​ ​to  celebrate​ ​three​ ​months​ ​of​ ​dating.​ ​They​ ​have​ ​waited​ ​ninety​ ​days​ ​to  have​ ​sex​ ​because​ ​they​ ​both​ ​agreed​ ​that​ ​sex​ ​gets​ ​in​ ​the​ ​way​ ​of  truly​ ​getting​ ​to​ ​know​ ​your​ ​partner.​ ​Still,​ ​Taylor​ ​is​ ​sure​ ​that​ ​Jessica  is​ ​the​ ​woman​ ​for​ ​him​ ​and​ ​intends​ ​to​ ​propose​ ​marriage.​ ​His​ ​best  friend,​ ​Qwynn,​ ​thinks​ ​that​ ​he​ ​is​ ​crazy​ ​and​ ​encourages​ ​him​ ​to​ ​wait  until​ ​after​ ​their​ ​relationship​ ​has​ ​been​ ​consummated​ ​when​ ​he  knows​ ​more​ ​about​ ​her.​ ​Undeterred,​ ​Taylor​ ​has​ ​the​ ​ring​ ​and​ ​heads  to​ ​Jessica’s​ ​for​ ​their​ ​dinner​ ​and​ ​to​ ​propose.​ ​Confronted​ ​with​ ​a  case​ ​of​ ​cold​ ​feet,​ ​Taylor​ ​calls​ ​his​ ​no-nonsense​ ​mother​ ​who  reassures​ ​him​ ​that​ ​he​ ​is​ ​not​ ​moving​ ​too​ ​fast​ ​and​ ​that​ ​Jessica​ ​is​ ​a  wonderful​ ​woman.​ ​All​ ​is​ ​well,​ ​until​ ​Jessica​ ​reveals​ ​the​ ​true​ ​reason  why​ ​she​ ​asked​ ​to​ ​wait​ ​ninety​ ​days. 

Sunday September 24, 2017 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

1:00pm EDT

Between 2 Shores (from Santo Domingo to Pointe-à-Pitre)
Leaving their children behind and searching for a better life, two women arrive illegally on french territory.  Thirteen years later, they made a life for themselves and became legal but are still flighting to get the proper papers for their children to come and live with them. The devastating impact on the children growing in Santo Domingo while their mothers live in Guadeloupe.

Director: Mariette Montpierre
Runtime:52 min




Sunday September 24, 2017 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

1:00pm EDT

Choose Cleveland - Lolly The Trolley Tour
Join GCUFF on a special Lolly the Trolley tour of Cleveland. We'll tour various CLE neighborhoods, historic venues and locations ideal for filming locations.

Complementary admission for filmmakers and invited guest.
Limited tickets avialable for purchase

Bus loads begins at 12:45 pm in front of The Reel Lounge & Hospitality Center 13205 Shaker Square Blvd
Departs promptly @1 pm. 
Returns @ 4pm


Sunday September 24, 2017 1:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
The Reel Lounge 13205 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

2:00pm EDT

Making Sky Break
This documentary takes you behind the scenes with Zo! and the crew of talented songwriters, producers and vocalists who helped create the amazing album, "Sky Break."   "Making Sky Break" explores Zo!'s hometown of Detroit and his humble beginnings, tours his home studio in Washington D.C. and travels to a host of cities from LA to Raleigh, N.C.
Get ready to take a journey through "Sky Break," one of the greatest contemporary soul albums of the year.

Runtime: 84 min


Sunday September 24, 2017 2:00pm - 3:25pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

2:30pm EDT

Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Black Colleges and Universities
In the decades before the civil rights movement was possible in the American landscape, another sector quietly, but steadily worked to erode the inequities in American life.  Though much of its history was eclipsed by the explosiveness of the 1960s, the nation’s historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) shaped black life creating a Black middle class and dismantling segregation.
Building a vibrant mosaic of events, stories and characters, "Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Black Colleges and Universities" traces the persistent belief in education’s power to transform and advance the black community even in the country’s most dire eras of racial intolerance.

Director: Stanley Nelson
Runtime: 85 min

Filmmakers


Sunday September 24, 2017 2:30pm - 4:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
  Film Screening, Documentary

4:00pm EDT

Fight Hate with Love
Michael Tabon found himself stuck in the revolving door of a criminal justice system he calls a “womb-to-prison” pipeline.  It’s a cycle many poor young black men struggle to break, but the cards are often stacked against them.  In and out of jail since he was 16, Tabon has finally managed to stay free, strongly motivated by his newfound passion for activism.  In order to prevent others (especially his son) from falling into the same trap, he travels to high-crime neighborhoods, finding unique and provocative ways to call attention to the issue.  Whether it’s walking through the streets with prison garb and chains or building a jail cell simulation in the back of a truck, Tabon has been catching eyes and hearts with his message.  But after years of separation, his family is frustrated by his obsessive dedication to his cause.  Like prison, it’s prevented them from experiencing quality time together.  FIGHT HATE WITH LOVE provides a damning exposé of our country’s failed prison system, chronicling one man’s very personal fight to fix it. 

Director: Andrew Michael Ellis
Runtime: 82 min


Sunday September 24, 2017 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

4:00pm EDT

Art Gallery Event : A Beautiful Burden
Music performance: alvin frazier
Art Exhibit: A Beautiul Burden
Poetry Reading by Ali McClain
Artist Talk

Free and open to publc

Speakers
avatar for alvin frazier

alvin frazier

Gifted, talented and versatile are just a few words that best describe singer, songwriter, musician, producer, composer actor & director alvin frazier.  Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, he has been singing since the age of two.  A self-taught musician, alvin would teach himself... Read More →
avatar for Donald Black Jr

Donald Black Jr

There is a very pleasing story about photographer Donald Black Jr. and his desire to be an artist.  At a young age, Black instinctively recognized there was something missing from art world in Cleveland. He felt disconnected from art because he didn’t see himself in the works that... Read More →


Sunday September 24, 2017 4:00pm - 8:00pm EDT
The Reel Lounge 13205 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

4:30pm EDT

Holy Hustle
Following their mother's passing, a quick-witted con artist and his straight-laced brother find themselves on the run from gangsters when Mama's will didn't leave enough for them to pay up. As a result (and refuge) they scheme their way into pastoring a down-trodden rural church while hustling the saints to scrape up the loot they owe. But could they get more than they bargained for in the art of the holy hustle?

Director: Mark A. Cummings
Runtime: 110 min


Sunday September 24, 2017 4:30pm - 6:20pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

6:00pm EDT

Shorts 4 : All Eyes on Emma l S0.CI3.TY l Lawman l Iman & The Light Warrior
All Eyes on Emma 5
 In this horror thriller, a college professor (Peter Lawson Jones) is cursed to keep his eyes fixated on a beautiful statue-like girl every night when the sun goes down. In exchange for an A in his class, he hires one of his students to help free him from the curse.
Director: Matthew Leslie

So. CI3.ty (27 min)
J0.hn, an emotionless and regulated citizen of THE CITY, awakes on a deserted island 10, 000 miles away from civilization. Equipped with the R3G, a symbiotic watch ruled by a very advanced A.I that regulate his emotions and keeps him indefinitely "operational," J0.hn starts to plan his own rescue but things get radically complicated... 
Director: Khris Burton

Lawman (15 min)
1875, Indian Territory. Bass Reeves, is the first African-American to be deputized by the U.S. Marshal service. When Bass charges into the desert, he engages in a shootout with two outlaws, Maha and Glen Huddleston, also African-American. Bass kills Maha in the gunfight, and arrests Glen, ordering him to carry Maha’s body across the desert back to Fort Smith. Over the course of their journey, Glen questions Bass’ choice of career and tries to psych Bass out in an unorthodox attempt at escape, a tactic that works as Bass begins to question his own mind in regards to the idea of justice and choosing to fight for a law and a country that may never fight for him.
Directed by Matthew Gentile

Iman & the Light Warrior (15 min)
10 year-old Iman navigates through a war-ravaged City of Aya with the help of the Light Warriors to express his feelings to his school crush in order to unlock his superpower.
Writer: Osahon Tongo      


Sunday September 24, 2017 6:00pm - 7:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

7:10pm EDT

Created Equal
A cocky, up-and-coming attorney, begrudgingly takes on a case to sue the Archdiocese of New Orleans for sex discrimination; after a woman, who's desperate to become a priest, solicits his help.

Q & A wtth Thada Catalon will follow screening

Director: Bill Duke
Writers: Ned Bowman, Thada Catalon
Runtime: 91 min



Sunday September 24, 2017 7:10pm - 8:40pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

7:30pm EDT

Behind The Curtain: Todrick Hall
"American Idol" and YouTube sensation Todrick Hall launches his most ambitious project yet: the full-scale original musical, "Straight Outta Oz."  From a small town in Texas to big-time show business, comes an inspiring documentary of the redemptive power of art.  We watch him struggle to write songs about growing up gay and black in small-town Texas, his difficult relationship with his mom and the harsh realities of trying to make it in show business.

Director: Katherine Fairfax Wright
Run Time: 100 mins


Sunday September 24, 2017 7:30pm - 9:15pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
 
Monday, September 25
 

1:00pm EDT

My BFF
Inspired by true events. When 5-year-old Marni Wilkins, a Caucasian girl, lost her mother, she was left with an unfulfilled soul. Thankfully her best friend, Gemma Brown, a black girl, was always by her side.
Ten years later, Marni has the opportunity to find that lost connection when she learns that her mother’s favorite poet will be teaching at a distinguished school for the arts in her area. The two friends are both excited to apply. Gemma gets accepted, however they soon learn that there's a mishap with Marni's application and the school only has seats left for “diverse" candidates.
Realizing that her dreams of getting to know her mother may disappear, Marni is convinced to do something drastic. Things don't go quite to plan, but the two girls learn valuable lessons about race, identity, politics, friendship and growing up in this poignant "coming of age" dramedy.


Director: Greg Carter
Runtime: 100 min


Monday September 25, 2017 1:00pm - 2:40pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

1:30pm EDT

Woven
Ethiopian-born Elenie Tariku is merely attempting to integrate her mother's traditions with her own dreams.  That is until her life is destroyed by a mysterious crime in New York that takes the life of her only brother.  As Elenie searches for the truth behind his death, her life intertwines with an intriguing man whose own personal turmoil brings them together for better or worse.

Directors: Nagwa Ibrahim, Salome Mulugeta
Runtime: 96 min


Monday September 25, 2017 1:30pm - 3:06pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

3:30pm EDT

All We Need is Another Chance
Reginald Prophet Haynes spent his days singing in the stairwell and his nights sticking up liquor stores.  Charged with armed robbery at age eighteen, he pled guilty and was sent to Trenton State Prison to serve nineteen years.  He knew his life was about to change but could not have fathomed the direction it took.  Two years later after being transferred to Rahway State Prison his path would cross with that of renowned Motown producer George Kerr, setting the course for history to be made. ALL WE NEED IS ANOTHER CHANCE is a soaring tribute to the power of music to transform lives.

Director: Corbett Jones
Runtime: 72 min


Monday September 25, 2017 3:30pm - 4:50pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

4:00pm EDT

Free to Ride
Free To Ride is the story of the relentless spirit of community members from across Dayton, Ohio who overcame a suburban contingent opposed to the expansion of public transit along a commercial corridor, and the system of checks and balances that allowed justice and reason to prevail.  Free To Ride is a promising story about how hard work, collaboration, and the accountability systems can yield fair and just outcomes for all.

Director: Jamaal Bell
Runtime: 60 min

Speakers


Monday September 25, 2017 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
  Film Screening, Documentary

5:30pm EDT

The Silent Killer: Prostate Cancer In The African American Community

There’s a silent killer hunting our men that continues to increase at an alarming rate.  Prostate cancer is the third most common cause of death from cancer in men over the age of 75 but African-American men are the most at risk to develop (at any age) and die from the disease.  For too long prostate cancer has been a taboo topic for Black men and they are less likely to have routine prostate exams or receive chemotherapy and radiation if diagnosed.  “Silent Killer” speaks out to get the African-American community in the know and help save our men! 

Director: Landi Maduro
Runtime: 83 min


Monday September 25, 2017 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

6:00pm EDT

Black Women in Medicine
Free Community Screening 
Tickets available at Shaker Square Cinemas Box Office ( the day of the show only).
Limited availability  
First come first serve

Black Women in Medicine,” the first documentary to explore the history, contemporary issues and future possibilities of African American women physicians through the diverse voices of young medical students, practicing physicians, and elder trailblazers—like former U.S. Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders—on what it means to be a Black female doctor in America.

Directors: Crystal Emery
Writers: Crystal Emery
Stars: Lewis J. Beilman IIIRegina BenjaminKristel Carrington
Run Time: 66 min

Panel discussion will follow screening
Featuring  Doctors from area hospitals 

Moderators
avatar for Marcella Brown

Marcella Brown

Executive Director, Professionals Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF).
Marcella J. Brown, MNO is the Executive Director of the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF). At BPACF, Ms. Brown builds an awareness of, supports and celebrates the development of Northeast Ohio’s top Black Professionals and future community leaders through... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Dr Linda Bradley

Dr Linda Bradley

Cleveland Clinic
Linda D. Bradley, M.D. is Professor of Surgery at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University and Vice Chair of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health Institute at the Cleveland Clinic.  She is Director of Hysteroscopic Education for... Read More →
avatar for Dr  Margaret McKenzie

Dr Margaret McKenzie

Cleveland Clinic
Dr. Margaret McKenzie, President of Cleveland Clinic South Pointe Hospital also practices gynecology in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology & Women’s Health Institute.  She also serves as an Associate Professor of Surgery at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine... Read More →

Sponsors


Monday September 25, 2017 6:00pm - 8:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
  Community Screening

7:30pm EDT

True Conviction
There’s a new detective agency in Dallas, Texas.  Started by a group of exonerated men, they have decades of prison time served between them and are looking to free innocent people still behind bars.
True Conviction is a character-driven documentary that follows these change-makers as they rebuild their lives and families, learn to investigate cases, work to support each other and campaign to fix the criminal justice system.

Director: Jamie Meltzer
Runtime: 84 min


Monday September 25, 2017 7:30pm - 9:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

8:30pm EDT

Banger

When a turf dispute leads to the death of a Haitian immigrant named Ishmel Babet, his mother conjures up a spell to bring him back from the grave to exact revenge on those responsible.  The code of the street is simple....stay focused, stay loyal and stay alive.

Director/Writer - Mike Berry
Runtime: 90 min


Cast:

Robert Hunter, Cleveland OH  - Ishmel Babbett
Anjela Randle, Cleveland OH  - Ayida Babbett
Demond Ballou, Cleveland OH  - Hip Hop
Andrew Herriage, Cleveland OH - Circus
Jessica Graie, Los Angeles, CA - Det. Stagnelli
John Williamson, Cleveland, OH - Det. Corbin
Clifton Powell, Los Angeles, CA - Chief Crans
Joe Estevez, Los Angeles, CA - Mayor Costanzo
Omar Gooding, Los Angeles, CA - Faizon
Producer/Casting - Tina Hobbs Peter Marron - Asst Director
Jay B. Johnson - Director of Photography



Monday September 25, 2017 8:30pm - 10:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
 
Tuesday, September 26
 

1:00pm EDT

As Evil Does
As Evil Does - Mystery/Suspense/Thriller - "When a Christian and Atheist meet, all hell breaks loose!"  Two young "Saints Witnesses" evangelists seemingly on a friendly pursuit of conversation about religion and God come upon a staunch Atheist.  The existence of God takes a dark, sinister turn for the worst and all hell breaks loose resulting in beastly survival instincts against supernatural forces, mayhem and heinous torture.

Director: Yolanda Buggs
Stars: Bill Cobbs, Dorian Missick, Karl L. Sanders
Run Time: 117 mins


Tuesday September 26, 2017 1:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

1:15pm EDT

Shorts 3: 95 Never Looked So Good l The Man Who Feared l Full Service l Tom Freeman of the North l Padlock Men

95 Never Looked So Good (9)
This Documentary highlights Simeon Holloway accomplishments from early beginings to the prominent historical record of his involvement in the elite first all Black US B-1 Navy Band.
Director: Tymm Holloway

The Man Who Feared ( 8 min) 
A young white urban professional has moved into his newly purchased home in a predominantly black neighborhood; his attempts to remain inconspicuous finally runs its course after a misread encounter with a fellow community member.
Director: Jehnovah Carlisle

Full Service (16 min) Abike, a Nigerian born oil industry executive and a Christian, is driving to a friend's country house when she realizes her tank is needling towards empty. She pulls into the only station she can find where she is greeted by Scott, a local who inherited his business from his grandfather. Scott has never met anyone like Abike, which leads him to make a stream of assumptions about her based on stereotypes and unexamined racial biases. When Abike challenges him, with a mixture of bold humor and equally bold gravitas, he is left to ponder their commonalties and her power. Full Service explores the effects of globalization on local economies and culture, our propensity to stereotype others, and the fact that we are all more complex than we see
Director:  KPage Stuart Valdes

Tom Freeman of the North (18 min) A young black Harlemite named Tom, who interns at a start-up that just opened up in his neighborhood, is invited to his boss's housewarming party off of Malcolm X Boulevard. While Tom is looking forward to use this opportunity to move up the ranks by gifting his boss with a jar of artisanal mayonnaise, his brother, Desean, sees this party as symbol for the rapid gentrification of Harlem and the oppression of his people. Struggling to find a common ground between moving up and doing what's right, the two brothers go to the party only to discover that artisanal mayonnaise isn't what it's cracked up to be.
Director: Mohammed Rabbani

Padlock Men (16 min) 86 yr. old Walter “Posey” Fodrell shares a memoir of a historically unknown secret pact between Martin Luther King, Malcolm X & John F. Kennedy. 'Blood for Blood Knuckles Dirty' the Civil Rights movement will never be viewed the same. A History Never Spoke A Bond Never Broken
Director:  Lewis Powell


Tuesday September 26, 2017 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

3:00pm EDT

Student Shorts : Cut in Half l Monique From 12 -2 l Albert Bellamy l Simply a Sandwich l Letter to Heaven l Split Persona l Never Give Up
Free Screening:
Limited Tickets Available at Shaker Square Cinemas Box Office (day of screening only)


Cut in Half (16 min)

written by Leen Shumman (17) and directed by Susan Seidelman  

Monique From 12 - 2 (2)
A young woman attempts to pass the time as she awaits potentially life-altering news.

Albert Bellamy  (25)  Filmmaker: Lith Freeman
After learning of the death of his oldest friend, Albert Bellamy must relearn to ride a bike or risk saying goodby  

Simply A Sandwich (5)
It's been one of those days; and all that is wanted is simply, a sandwich.

Letter to Heaven ( 5)
directed by Shaman Aponte (13).  
A 10 year old boy works to overcome the obstacles that  come from having a mentally challenged father.

Split Persona (16)
written by Mayraleeh Nelson (17) and directed by Bradley Rust-Gray.  Split Persona places  an emphasis on love, solidarity and mental health

Never Give Up (4)
(Featuring the Tri-C Creative Arts Dance Academy.)    

Never Give Up interweaves the stories of several students who encounter struggles and setbacks in their goal of pursuing their dream of an education.

 


 

  

Tuesday September 26, 2017 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
  Short Films
  • Community Partner(s) Cuyahoga Community College, Scenarios USA

3:30pm EDT

90 Minutes of the Fever
The McGees are a typical nuclear family: a son who can’t keep a job; a daughter who is a freshman in college and has just found out she’s pregnant; a wife who has been taken for granted too long; and the dad who is oblivious to it all.  But like clockwork, this Sunday, just like every Sunday for the past ten years, the family is gathered around the dinner table for BBQ and to watch the lotto numbers being drawn for Jackpot Sunday.  But this Sunday will be different.  Not only is the lotto payout the biggest in US history: $1 Billion; but as the numbers are about to be drawn the telecast is interrupted by an emergency broadcast announcing that martial law has been declared nationwide and a mysterious computer virus has taken over the phones, the TV, and the Internet, replacing every signal with a ticking countdown that started at 90 minutes.  Panic sets in as the family tries to figure out what’s going on.  Is it a rogue hacker group that has taken over US communication?  Is it the supernatural phenomenon?  Or is it something sent by God?  No one knows, but for the moment they’re safe, as long as they stay inside.


Director: Michael Sean Hall
Writers: Michael Sean Hall, Michael Sean Hall
Stars: Parker McKenna Posey, Glenn Plummer, Marcus T. Paulk
Runtime: 106 min


Tuesday September 26, 2017 3:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

5:00pm EDT

UNDEREXPOSED
UNDEREXPOSED chronicles the lives of ten teen artists as they find solace in art making and performing as members of “Shooting Without Bullets,” Cleveland’s revolutionary youth advocacy program.  This coming of age story illuminates the beautiful struggle in their discovery of self in the midst of extreme economic depression and stark racial segregation.
Producer: Amanda King

Q & A with Producer will follow screening

50% of Ticket proceeds will be donated to Shooting w/o Bullets organization.

Filmmakers
avatar for Amanda King

Amanda King

Creative Director, Shootingwithoutbullets
Amanda D. King is a Cleveland-based artist, activist, and educator. Her civically engaged practice utilizes law, art history and photography to spread progressive ideas and messages of equity through art direction, picture making, public art and community organizing. Amanda is the... Read More →



Tuesday September 26, 2017 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

6:00pm EDT

Pressure
The documentary takes a look into the lives of people dealing with depression.  An often overlooked subject, depression is a serious problem in the world with over 350 million people world wide caught in it's grasp.  Our mission with this documentary is to help people "RELEASE THE PRESSURE." and take off the mask of shame, guilt and fear.
Director: Mike Berry & Skip Thomas Productions
Run Time: 100 min


Free Community Screening 
Tickets available at Shaker Square Cinemas Box Office ( the day of the show only).
Limited availability
First come first serve


Tuesday September 26, 2017 6:00pm - 7:40pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

6:30pm EDT

Executor
Ruthless assassin Kyle (Markiss McFadden) was raised by a corrupt priest (Paul Sorvino) who trained him to murder under the guise of executing God’s justice.


Director: Moziko Wind
Writer: Michael Marcelin
Stars: Markiss McFadden, Paul Sorvino, Mischa Barton
Runtime:  93 min


Tuesday September 26, 2017 6:30pm - 8:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

8:30pm EDT

She's Got A Plan
"When do you give up on your dreams?" Barely making enough to pay rent, buy Lean Cuisines, and keep her classic Mercedes with just enough gas to make the next pitch meeting, this is the question Isis is faced with.  Although she's tired of the rat race, Isis knows she's approaching middle-age and her window of opportunity for Hollywood success is rapidly closing. 
Between her sparse career and her unlucky love life, frustrations are quickly coming to a head.  Isis is forced to make something happen...and fast!  She takes what little money she has (including rent), and gives herself 30 days to "make it" in Hollywood.  "She's Got A Plan" is an emotional, comedic, and relatable film filled with images sure to tug the heart strings and tickle the funny bone.

Directors: Fatima Washington & Corey Johnson
Run Time: 94 min
Stars: Golden Brooks, Tsai Chin, Ja'net DuBois          


Tuesday September 26, 2017 8:30pm - 10:20pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

8:45pm EDT

Shorts 1 : Served l Old E l Pseudo l See You Yesterday

Served  (23 min) Follows the story of two adolescent sisters Heart & Hope whose mother has been shockingly arrested and prepare for her to go to prison. The major themes I focused on in my short were the plight children of incarcerated parents carry and the rising number of women going to prison.
Director: Akiya Mcknight

Old E (15 min) Demarkus Jackson, a young basketball star from South Central Los Angeles, pursues his dreams in the face of his abusive, drunken father who cannot overcome the failures of his past.
Director: Xavier Neal-Burgin

Psuedo (7 min) To see through the eyes of another requires each one of us to challenge what we have been conditioned to see. Do you see what I see?
Directors: Julien Turner (19) and Justen Turner (14)

See You Yesterday (15 min) Presented by Spike Lee, two Brooklyn teenage prodigies, C.J. Walker and Sebastian Thomas - determined to outwit fate and role-play as God - build make-shift time machines to save CJ's brother, Calvin, from being wrongfully killed by a police officer.
Director: Stefon Bristol

 



Tuesday September 26, 2017 8:45pm - 9:45pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
 
Wednesday, September 27
 

1:00pm EDT

Shorts 5 : Instance l Print Shop l A Father's Love

Instance (30)

An idealistic art teacher befriends a troubled teenage boy in her class, but when she is accused of an instance of inappropriate behavior, it becomes unclear who the actual victim really is.
This 30-minute short is
Director: Teria Birlon and Nicholas Casucci


PRINT SHOP (30 min)
What happens when a young, aspiring fashion designer from North Philadelphia creates Rest in Peace t-shirts to honor slain victims of violence in his community? Director Christian Nolan Jones explores life through R.I.P. tees in the "Print Shop."
Director: Christian Nolan Jones


 A Father's Love (27 min)
Choosing between saving one life and hundreds of lives should be easy, unless that one life is your daughters.

Director: Emily Mathason

 

 



Wednesday September 27, 2017 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

1:45pm EDT

My BFF
Inspired by true events.  When 5-year-old Marni Wilkins, a Caucasian girl, lost her mother, she was left with an unfulfilled soul.  Thankfully her best friend, Gemma Brown, a black girl, was always by her side.
Ten years later, Marni has the opportunity to find that lost connection when she learns that her mother’s favorite poet will be teaching at a distinguished school for the arts in her area. The two friends are both excited to apply.  Gemma gets accepted, however they soon learn that there's a mishap with Marni's application and the school only has seats left for “diverse" candidates.
Realizing that her dreams of getting to know her mother may disappear, Marni is convinced to do something drastic.  Things don't go quite to plan, but the two girls learn valuable lessons about race, identity, politics, friendship and growing up in this poignant "coming of age" dramedy.


Director: Greg Carter
Runtime: 100 min


Wednesday September 27, 2017 1:45pm - 3:25pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

3:00pm EDT

Between 2 Shores (from Santo Domingo to Pointe-à-Pitre)
Leaving their children behind and searching for a better life, two women arrive illegally on french territory. 13 years later, they made a life for themselves and became legal but are still flighting to get the proper papers for their children to come and live with them. The devastating impact on the children growing in Santo Domingo while their mothers live in Guadeloupe.

Director: Mariette Montpierre
Runtime: 52 min





Wednesday September 27, 2017 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

4:00pm EDT

SHORTS 8: FORGIVENESS l Playground l Fresh Moves l Sterling
FORGIVENESS (25)
Directed by Satie Gossett-- is the story of a young African American boy who explores the brutal history of America’s role in slavery as the topic for his entry into a national essay contest issued by the President of the United States. President McGovern needs inspiration from the youth about how to fix America. Oliver Burroughs, learning about slavery in his class declares that the President needs to apologize so he submits his solution and enters his essay in the contest. Oliver learns about the profound impact of slavery on America and different perspectives from everyone in his life. Destiny lays a path for Oliver’s essay to win the President’s contest and now President McGovern has the task to fulfill this young man’s request to make a national apology for America’s involvement in slavery so healing in the nation can begin. “FORGIVENESS” is an allegory of innocence and redemption.


Playground ( 17 min)

In Brick City, a theater collective on Cleveland’s West Side, children and seniors from a public housing project create and perform their own plays in order to comprehend the violence that has scarred their community and share their poignant stories of loss, perseverance and hope.
 Director(s): Geoff Pingree, Jake Hochendoner

Fresh Moves (15)
Nehemiah Spencer and Dee Jay Doc, and their project 'Fresh Moves' gives back to the community in a very unique way.Applying dance, hip hop and gardening as a Social & Emotional Learning (SEL) technique, Fresh Moves promotes bully free environments where's students can grow  
Director:    Chris Kennedy

Sterling (11) 
A highly successful writer and father gives up his fame, fortune and family as a result of what he believes his wife has done to destroy them. 

Directed by CORNELL CALHOUN lll 
Run time: 10:52 


Wednesday September 27, 2017 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

5:20pm EDT

Grandma's House
Based upon the true story of Kimberley T. Zulkowski's Grandmother, Margie Ree Harris, "Grandma's House" gives riveting insight into how the Executive Producer's life forever changed when she moved into her Grandmother's home. Chock-full of passion, faith and family, the film demonstrates the trials and tribulations faced living with a grandparent who stood as an inner-city matriarch and pillar of strength to selflessly serve her family and surrounding community.
Grandma's house tells how two different generations become one under the same roof. 


Director: Paul D. Hannah
Writer: Kimberley T. Zulkowski
Stars: Loretta Devine, Coco Jones, Paige Hurd
Runtime: 94 min

Wednesday September 27, 2017 5:20pm - 6:50pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

6:00pm EDT

Executor
Ruthless assassin Kyle (Markiss McFadden) was raised by a corrupt priest (Paul Sorvino) who trained him to murder under the guise of executing God’s justice.


Director: Moziko Wind
Writer: Michael Marcelin
Stars: Markiss McFadden, Paul Sorvino, Mischa Barton
Runtime:  93 min


Wednesday September 27, 2017 6:00pm - 7:30pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

7:30pm EDT

Not Black Enough
Not Black Enough is a film about class warfare and the cross-tides that African-Americans are dealing with within the black community.  The film takes a sometimes humorous, always personal, brutally honest and insightful look into a seldom-explored phenomenon that is pervasive in the black culture- The ostracizing of blacks for being Not Black Enough.  Not Black Enough, a feature length documentary, will explore the reasons behind this practice of fear and loathing internal to the black community.

Director: Tracey Anarella
Runtime: 83 min

Filmmakers


Wednesday September 27, 2017 7:30pm - 8:53pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

8:00pm EDT

Shorts 2: Hold On l Trash Bags l Intersection l Hope For Dating In LA

Hold On ( 9 min) 
Family bonds are tested when a young man is left to care for his grandmother one morning.
Director: Chiristine Turner

Trash Bags ( 9 min)
A former couple is forced to refelcetover the degradation of their relationship.
Director: Diante Singley

Intersection ( 9 min)
A road trip forces a young woman and her two best friends to examine their identities and place in the American South
Director:  Angela Tucker

Hope For Dating In LA ( 30 min) 
Hope (played by Joslyn Pennywell from America's next Top Model), Serenity and Darin are three professional, pretty ladies living in Los Angeles. Each has everything going for them career wise, but the LA dating scene has them down. They get an idea surrounding an online dating site that turns into a disaster, but ultimately keeps them hopeful.
Director: DaVida Chanel Smith



Wednesday September 27, 2017 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

9:30pm EDT

Shorts 7: Mixed Tape Baby l Small Infractions l Cash Out l Black & Beautiful l Good Lookin Out

MIXED TAPE BABY (20 min)  is set in North Philadelphia.  The Mixtape: Stay Black, Baby! paints a complex picture of black America.
Director: Jasmine Lynea.

SMALL INFRACTIONS:5 MIN
Small Infractions is a new wave silent film.  This film takes a humorous look at a man who is a stickler for the rules in which he has the authority to enforce but isn't so attentive to other traditional rules. Miles has a  job that gives him a small amount of power which he happily wields and does so unmercifully. This may be the day the mirror is held to his face.  Written by John Moody
Director: David Velo Stewart

CA$H OUT (27 Min)
A slice of life out of one young African-American girl's journey back to loving herself in a society that tells her not to.
Director: KARIM MEG MOUTRY

Black & Beautiful
Music Video

Good Lookin Out
Music Video


Wednesday September 27, 2017 9:30pm - 10:30pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
 
Thursday, September 28
 

1:00pm EDT

Grandma's House
Based upon the true story of Kimberley T. Zulkowski's Grandmother, Margie Ree Harris, "Grandma's House" gives riveting insight into how the Executive Producer's life forever changed when she moved into her Grandmother's home.  Chock-full of passion, faith and family, the film demonstrates the trials and tribulations faced living with a grandparent who stood as an inner-city matriarch and pillar of strength to selflessly serve her family and surrounding community.
Grandma's house tells how two different generations become one under the same roof. 


Director: Paul D. Hannah
Writer: Kimberley T. Zulkowski
Stars: Loretta Devine, Coco Jones, Paige Hurd
Runtime: 94 min

Thursday September 28, 2017 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

1:45pm EDT

Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess
She was a queen captured in her homeland, and forcibly transported across the Atlantic Ocean in the belly of a slave ship.  In the New World, she would eventually rise up to become the leader of a new nation – of free Africans.  However, not many people outside of Jamaica know of the legendary "Nanny" warrior chieftainess of the Jamaican Maroons, one of the most celebrated, but least recognized heroines in the resistance history of the New World.

Director: Roy T Anderson
Runtime: 59 min


Thursday September 28, 2017 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

4:00pm EDT

Shorts 7: Mixed Tape Baby l Small Infractions l Cash Out l Black & Beautiful l Good Lookin Out

MIXED TAPE BABY (20 min)  is set in North Philadelphia.  The Mixtape: Stay Black, Baby! paints a complex picture of black America.
Director: Jasmine Lynea.

SMALL INFRACTIONS:5 MIN
Small Infractions is a new wave silent film.  This film takes a humorous look at a man who is a stickler for the rules in which he has the authority to enforce but isn't so attentive to other traditional rules. Miles has a  job that gives him a small amount of power which he happily wields and does so unmercifully. This may be the day the mirror is held to his face.  Written by John Moody
Director: David Velo Stewart

CA$H OUT (27 Min)
A slice of life out of one young African-American girl's journey back to loving herself in a society that tells her not to.
Director: KARIM MEG MOUTRY

Black & Beautiful
Music Video

Good Lookin Out
Music Video


Thursday September 28, 2017 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

5:00pm EDT

Created Equal
A cocky, up-and-coming attorney, begrudgingly takes on a case to sue the Archdiocese of New Orleans for sex discrimination; after a woman, who's desperate to become a priest, solicits his help.

Q & A wtth Thada Catalon will follow screening

Director: Bill Duke
Writers: Ned Bowman, Thada Catalon
Runtime: 91 min


Thursday September 28, 2017 5:00pm - 6:30pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

5:45pm EDT

Caleb A Living Miracle
Caleb Hilton is a nine year old vocally gifted little boy who is diagnosed with brain cancer.  As his family struggles with his disease, Caleb's mother reminds him everyday that he is on God's time not man's, so get busy living not dying.  At the age of 28 Caleb received a recording contract with a big record label.  Caleb Hilton is a living miracle! 


Thursday September 28, 2017 5:45pm - 7:15pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

7:00pm EDT

Pushing Dead
When a struggling writer, HIV positive for 20+ years, accidentally deposits a $100 birthday check, he is dropped from his health plan for earning too much.  In this new era of sort-of universal care, can he take on a helpless bureaucracy or come up with $3000 a month to buy meds on his own?
Director: Tom E. Brown
Runtime: 110 min


Free Community Screening 
Tickets available at Shaker Square Cinemas Box Office ( the day of the show only).
Limited availability
First come first serve





Thursday September 28, 2017 7:00pm - 8:50pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

8:00pm EDT

The Charlie Movie
After her sister Brandy’s untimely death, everyone is taken aback by Charlie’s unorthodox (and seemingly chipper) approach to the grieving process.  Follow Charlie and her friends, Kayla and Keturah, as they go along for a wild, hilariously exhilarating and bittersweet ride – which will have you laughing and crying at the same time.

Director: Bobby Huntley
Runtime:87 min

DIRECTOR’S STATEMENT: “Charlie” was filmed over seven jam-packed weekends in Atlanta, GA, with very little to no budget.  The talented cast and crew joined together to create this visually vibrant story for the screen.  The look, tone and style of the production were heavily influenced by French cinema, the early works of Spike Lee, and the films and music of Prince and Madonna.  The result is an interesting world where the aesthetics of throwback 1980's gritty New York has been combined with present day Atlanta flair and flourishes of whimsy in this heartwarming tale of love between sisters.

Executive Producer/ Chet A. Brewster of Davenstar 1 Ent.Co Writer/Co Producer/ Nikki Wade of Divadom Ent.Co Writer/Co Producer/ Director/ Editor/ Bobby Huntleyof Bobby Huntley FilmsCinematographer/ Lakisha HughesLighting/ Mark AlstonComposer/ Chuckey CharlesLEADCASTKortnee Price / Nikki Lashae / Lailaa Brookings


Thursday September 28, 2017 8:00pm - 9:30pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120

9:30pm EDT

Banger

When a turf dispute leads to the death of a Haitian immigrant named Ishmel Babet, his mother conjures up a spell to bring him back from the grave to exact revenge on those responsible.  The code of the street is simple....stay focused, stay loyal and stay alive.

Director/Writer - Mike Berry
Runtime: 90 min

 Cast:

Robert Hunter, Cleveland OH  - Ishmel Babbett
Anjela Randle, Cleveland OH  - Ayida Babbett
Demond Ballou, Cleveland OH  - Hip Hop
Andrew Herriage, Cleveland OH - Circus
Jessica Graie, Los Angeles, CA - Det. Stagnelli
John Williamson, Cleveland, OH - Det. Corbin
Clifton Powell, Los Angeles, CA - Chief Crans
Joe Estevez, Los Angeles, CA - Mayor Costanzo
Omar Gooding, Los Angeles, CA - Faizon
Producer/Casting - Tina Hobbs Peter Marron - Asst Director
Jay B. Johnson - Director of Photography



Thursday September 28, 2017 9:30pm - 11:00pm EDT
Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
 
Friday, September 29
 

6:00pm EDT

Closing Night Film & Awards Ceremony - One Last Prayer
This is the Closing Night Film of the 6th Greater Cleveland Urban Film Festival. An awards presentation and Q&A with VIP’s from the movie will follow the screening. Special admission $25; 

Doors Open at 6:00 pm
Film starts at 7:00 pm

Parking; Ample Free Parking Use Harvard Rd and Robert Bishop Drive entrance" instead  since the parking lot is off Robert Bishop Dr.

GCUFF Awards Ceremony will follow film screening

Director: Myron Davis
Writers: Myron Davis, Shafron Hawkins, Kevin Taylor

Run Time: 90 Mins.
Synopsis:A hot-tempered father with a sordid past learns that his daughter has a rare illness and he doesn't have the resources to pay for treatment.  He finds himself faced with a choice, return to life in the streets or continue on a path of faith.

 Cast/ Crew
Produced by MFinity Media & EYE-80 Brianna Reed
DP: Jim ZuntStarring: Niles Rivers, Jessica Craig, , Bobbie Dancy

Filmmakers
MD

Myron Davis

MFINITY MEDIADIRECTOR / FILMMAKER  info@mfinitymedia.com



Friday September 29, 2017 6:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Tri-C East Campus, Mandel Theatre 4250 Richmond Road Highland Hills, Ohio 44122
  Film Screening

9:30pm EDT

Closing Night Mixer (after film screening)
Join us for our closing night mixer. Mix and mingle with our closing night filmmaker and team.
Light appetizers will be served 


Friday September 29, 2017 9:30pm - Saturday September 30, 2017 1:00pm EDT
Swerve Grille Edit 20126 Chagrin Blvd Shaker Heights, OH 44122
 
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