SERIESFEST Season 11: SIX DAYS OF PANELS, PILOT COMPETITIONS, PARTIES AND SPECIAL EVENTS!

Series-Fest-Logo

SeriesFest hosted their annual Soirée in Denver, Colorado, where they honored Jason Ritter ("Matlock”, "Gravity Falls") with the "Distinguished Artist Award," Rhea Seehorn ("Better Call Saul”, "Cooper's Bar") with the “Excellence in Acting” Award, and Carnival Films with the "Impact in Television Award."

The star-studded event included Denver Governor Jared Polis, Colorado Senator Michael Bennet, as well as talent from across several of SeriesFest's panels and events. Mayan Lopez (Actor, “Lopez vs. Lopez”),  Audrey Morrissey (Showrunner and Executive Producer, "The Voice"), Jocko Sims ( Actor, "Grosse Pointe Garden Society"), Kit Williamson (Creator, Writer and Actor, “Unconventional”), Eric Ledgin (Showrunner and Executive Producer, "St. Denis Medical"), and more gathered to celebrate the honorees and SeriesFest 11!

Take Your Film Festival Experience to the Next Level with Tribeca Membership

Festival Experience Logo

With so many world premieres and exclusive events at this year’s Festival, we wanted Tribeca Members to be the first to hear about all the can’t-miss moments. Our Programmer Preview brought Members and filmmakers together at NeueHouse to celebrate the slate and hear directly from the Programming team about what the 2025 Festival has in store.

From under-the-radar premieres to buzzworthy indies, the team shared the Festival’s hidden gems, helping Tribeca Members build their perfect Festival schedule.

Don’t miss the chance to elevate your Festival experience. Become a Tribeca Member for early ticket access, Member-exclusive screenings during the Festival (and year-round!), and so much more.

 

Tribeca Members also get:

    • 10% off select* passes, packages, and single tickets
      • *Exclusions apply. Discount is not valid for Beacon Theatre events.
    • 10% off Festival merchandise in person and online
    • Members-only Festival screenings
    • On-site perks like access to our lounges at the Tribeca Festival hub

Get the true insider experience with a Tribeca Membership — and ensure you have access to the best of the Fest.

 

Tribeca’s inaugural Storytelling Summit

Storyteling Summit

Where Vision Meets Possibility

Where Vision Meets Possibility

We’re excited to announce a new addition to this year’s program: the Tribeca Storytelling Summit — a festival-within-the-festival for the entire filmmaking community.

Buy Tickets Here!

The multi-day summit will take place June 5-15 alongside the Festival, bringing together visionary filmmakers, storytellers, and industry leaders for thoughtfully curated panels, intimate workshops, and networking opportunities. Designed specifically to help foster collaboration and supercharge careers, this year’s inaugural Storytelling Summit will be the start of the next wave of storytelling success in TV, film, digital media, and beyond.

To kick things off, we announced our first featured speakers, including Christine VachonJulio TorresSteve Buscemi and Wren ArthurJeremy O. Harris, and our own Jane Rosenthal. When you attend our Storytelling Summit, you’ll gain insights from industry veterans like these, while also connecting with a diverse group of fellow creatives (and maybe even see a film or two).

The Tribeca Storytelling Summit is open to anyone with a story to tell. Badges are $250 and provide full access to the Summit’s programming June 5-15.

Find more details about the event at tribecafilm.com/storytellingsummit.

 

THE AFRICAN AMERICAN FILM CRITICS ASSOCIATION (AAFCA) SETS THE DATE FOR THE 7TH ANNUAL AAFCA TV HONORS FOR AUGUST 23, 2025

AAFCA logo

The annual celebration of the best of television will take place at the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

LOS ANGELES, March 24, 2025 – The African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) has set the date for the 7th Annual AAFCA TV Honors for August 23, 2025. The prestigious awards ceremony, celebrating excellence in television, is returning to the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.

The AAFCA TV Honors recognizes outstanding achievements in television, highlighting diverse storytelling and performances that resonate with audiences worldwide. The event has become a cornerstone of the television awards season, honoring both established and emerging talent.

"We are excited to once again celebrate the incredible talent and creativity that defines television today," said Gil Robertson, AAFCA president and co-founder. "The AAFCA TV Honors provides a platform to recognize the impactful narratives and performances that reflect the richness of the Black experience. We look forward to another year of honoring the best in television."

Further details regarding the location, nominees, and special honorees will be released in the coming months.

About AAFCA

The African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) is the premier body of Black film critics in the world, actively reviewing cinema and television from a Black cultural perspective. Founded in 2003, AAFCA’s mission is to celebrate and enhance diversity in the cinematic and television arts, to uplift the voice of the Black community within the entertainment industry, and to provide insight for both general and Black audiences. For more information on AAFCA and its programs visit http://AAFCA.com.

ACE Winners Announced for the 75th ACE Eddie Awards

ACE Logo

Winners for Outstanding Editing In Film, Television and Documentaries were announced today, Friday, March 14, 2025, in Los Angeles at UCLA’s Royce Hall

American Cinema Editors (ACE) announced today the winners for the 75th Annual ACE Eddie Awards, recognizing outstanding editing in 14 categories of film, television and documentaries. The winners were announced at the live ceremony at UCLA’s Royce Hall.

Acclaimed filmmaker Jon M. Chu received the ACE Golden Eddie Filmmaker of the Year Award, recognizing a filmmaker who exemplifies distinguished achievement in the art and business of film. Film editors Maysie Hoy, ACE and Paul Hirsch, ACE received Career Achievement Awards for their outstanding contributions to film editing.

A full list of winners for the 75th Annual ACE Eddie Awards follows:

BEST EDITED FEATURE FILM (Drama, Theatrical):

Emilia Pérez - Juliette Welfling

BEST EDITED FEATURE FILM (Comedy, Theatrical):

Wicked - Myron Kerstein, ACE

BEST EDITED ANIMATED FEATURE FILM:

The Wild Robot - Mary Blee

BEST EDITED DOCUMENTARY FEATURE:

Will & Harper - Monique Zavistovski, ACE

BEST EDITED DOCUMENTARY SERIES

Chimp Crazy (102 - Gone Ape)
Evan Wise, ACE
Charles Divak, ACE
Adrienne Gits, ACE
Doug Abel, ACE

BEST EDITED MULTI-CAMERA COMEDY SERIES:
Frasier (207 - My Brilliant Sister) - Russell Griffin, ACE

BEST EDITED SINGLE CAMERA COMEDY SERIES:

What We Do in the Shadows (603 - Sleep Hypnosis)
Liza Cardinale, ACE
Dane McMaster, ACE

BEST EDITED DRAMA SERIES:

Shogun (110 - A Dream of A Dream)
Maria Gonzales, ACE
Aika Miyake

BEST EDITED FEATURE FILM (NON-THEATRICAL):
Road House
Doc Crotzer, ACE

BEST EDITED LIMITED SERIES:
Baby Reindeer (104 - Episode 4)
Peter H. Oliver
Benjamin Gerstein

BEST EDITED NON-SCRIPTED SERIES:
Welcome to Wrexham (305 - Temporary)
Tim Wilsbach, ACE
Steve Welch, ACE
Michael Brown
Michael Oliver
Tim Roche
Matt Wafaie
Jenny Krochmal
Mohamed el Manasterly

BEST EDITED VARIETY TALK/SKETCH SHOW OR SPECIAL:
Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (1103 - Boeing)
Anthony Miale, ACE

BEST EDITED ANIMATED SERIES:
X-Men '97 (105 - Remember It)
Michelle McMillan

About American Cinema Editors

American Cinema Editors (ACE) is an honorary society that has been championing the art, craft and business of film editing since 1950. Through signature events like EditFest Global, the ACE Eddie Awards and Invisible Art/Visible Artists, the organization celebrates the vital role of editors in storytelling and provides a dynamic global platform to illuminate the craft. ACE is committed to elevating the profile of film editing, fostering a diverse and inclusive community and educating future generations through a variety of active mentorship and scholarship programs. Through its programs, publications (CinemaEditor), podcasts (Editors on Editing, Global Editing Perspectives) and active educational activities, this collective of accomplished film editors is at the forefront of both preserving cinematic history while simultaneously preparing the next generation of film editors in a continuously evolving artistic climate.

TODAY, FINAL DAY OF THE 32ND PAN AFRICAN FILM & ARTS FESTIVAL

PAFF Logo

Highlights include Filmmaker Awards Brunch, spotlight screening of ‘Genius: MLK/X’, ArtFest, and dozens of screenings of films

The last day of the Pan African Film & Arts Festival is today, Monday, February 19, 2024.

The film festival will take place at Cinemark Baldwin Hills & XD and the ArtFest featuring over 100 fine artists from throughout the African Diaspora will take place at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza and Cinemark Baldwin Hills & XD, 4020 Marlton Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90008.

The events today include ARTFEST from 10AM - 9PM at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza. The PAFF  ArtFest features over 100 established and emerging fine artists and unique craftspeople from all over the world. With an artistic aesthetic that is rooted in Africa and its Diaspora, featured artists present their creative works using oil on canvas, watercolor and pastels, acrylic paper, glass, ceramics, metal, cloth, plastic, wax, wire, leather, and stone. In addition to fine art and one-of-a-kind crafts, the ArtFEST also features the best in designer and traditional fashions, jewelry, home decor, fashion accessories and so much more!

Representing the perfect mix of both art and culture, the PAFF ArtFEST brings out over 100K+ visitors from all over Los Angeles, across the country, and around the world.

FILMMAKER AWARDS BRUNCH is at 11: 00 a.m. at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, 2nd Floor Bridge

Celebrating the best in Black independent storytelling at the 2024 PAFF Filmmaker Awards Brunch and announcing the winners of this year’s film festival audience and jury awards.

‘GENIUS: MLK/X’ will screen at 7:00 p.m. at the Cinemark Baldwin Hills & XD.

ABOUT THE FILM

GENIUS: MLK/X follows both Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Kelvin Harrison, Jr.) and Malcom X (Aaron Pierre) from their formative years, where they were molded by strong fathers and traumatic injustices, to their rich, parallel stories as they shaped their identities and became the change they wished to see in the world. The docudrama series offers an intimate look into their complex lives as husbands, fathers, brothers and sons, taking them off the iconic T-shirts to show their humanity. GENIUS: MLK/X brings their wives, Coretta Scott King (Weruche Opia) and Betty Shabazz (Jayme Lawson), who are often portrayed as peripheral figures, to the forefront and shows them as formidable equals of the Movement. Episodes will explore the moments between the monumental historical events we’ve come to know and shine a light on how each leader and those closest to them questioned their resolve and decisions as they navigated the rigors of balancing a public persona with a private life. While King and X met only once and often challenged each other’s views, neither would have been as successful without the other.

Following the screening there will be a Q&A with Reggie Rock Bythewood – Executive Producer, Gina Prince-Bythewood – Executive Producer, Raphael Jackson Jr. – Executive Producer and Showrunner, Damione Macedon – Executive Producer and Showrunner and Weruche Opia, who protrays Coretta Scott King.

ABOUT THE PAN AFRICAN FILM & ARTS FESTIVAL:

The 32nd Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) makes its return to Los Angeles February 6-19, 2024 at the Cinemark Baldwin Hills XD and Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza to present and showcase a broad spectrum of Black creative works, particularly those that reinforce positive images and help to destroy negative stereotypes of Africans and African-Americans.

Since 1992, as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, PAFF has remained dedicated to the promotion of Black stories and images through the exhibition of film, visual art, and other creative expression. Today, PAFF is one of the largest and most prestigious Black film festivals in the U.S. and attracts local, national, and international audiences. In addition, it is an Oscar-qualifying festival for animation and live-action films, and one of the largest Black History Month events in America.

PAFF is supported in part by the City of Los Angeles, Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, LA Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson, LA Councilmember Curren Price, LA Councilmember Heather Hutt, LA County Department of Arts and Culture, the LA County COVID-19 Arts Relief Fund administered by the LA County Department of Arts and Culture, Senator Steve Bradford, and Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas.

The 2024 PAFF is possible through the generous support of sponsors including Color Creative, Gilead Sciences, Inc., Stocker Street Creative, Disney, Andscape, BET+, Paramount Pictures, National Geographic, Black Alliance for Justice Immigration, Cal State University, Los Angeles.

For more information, please visit paff.org.

BILL DUKE TO RECEIVE JA’NET DUBOIS LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FROM PAN AFRICAN FILM & ARTS FESTIVAL DURING CENTERPIECE

OFFICIAL PAFF 2024

The Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) is thrilled to announce that actor/director Bill Duke will receive the Ja’Net Dubois Lifetime Achievement Award during its Centerpiece on Thu., Feb. 15 at the Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles. PAFF’s Centerpiece will feature the world premiere of the Ethiopian war film “For the Love of the Motherland.

Duke will receive his award today, Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at the Directors Guild of American, 7920 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA

On hand will be Actor and Director Bill Duke, Theodros Teshome Kebede, Director, “For the Love of the Motherland.” Other notable guests, elected officials, foreign dignitaries, and talent

Originally the Pan African Film Festival Lifetime Achievement Award, but renamed after the late “Good Times” actress and co-founder of PAFF, The Ja'Net DuBois Lifetime Achievement award holds immense significance within the Black entertainment industry and beyond, serving as a beacon of recognition for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the arts, culture, and society at large. Named in honor of the iconic actress, singer, and humanitarian, Ja'Net DuBois, this award celebrates a lifetime of creativity, innovation, and dedication to one's craft. It not only commemorates the outstanding achievements of its recipients but also highlights their enduring impact on audiences, communities, and future generations. Through honoring individuals who have left an indelible mark on the world through their talent, advocacy, and philanthropy, the Ja'Net DuBois Lifetime Achievement award inspires others to strive for excellence and use their talents to make a positive difference in the world. Past recipients have included Beah Richards (2000), Danny Glover (2003), Melvin Van Peebles (2004), and Alfre Woodard (2017).

About Bill Duke

Bill Duke is an actor, director, producer and humanitarian in Hollywood, with more than 40 years of experience on-screen and behind the camera. His acting credits include recent television and feature film roles on HBO Max.  Mr. Duke appeared in “No Sudden Move” with Don Cheadle, Matt Damon, Brandon Frazier, and Julia Fox. He was also in Starz “Gaslit” with Julia Roberts and Sean Penn, Tyler Perry’s “The Oval,” “Black Lightning,” the critically acclaimed “Mandy,” and the highly lauded Stephen Soderbergh film “High Flying Bird”. Bill Duke is known worldwide for roles in “Predator,” “American Gigolo,” “Car Wash,” “Action Jackson,” “Commando,” “Menace II Society,” “Bird on a Wire,” “Get Rich or Die Tryin,” “X-Men 3,” “Henry's Crime,” “The Big Bang,” “Starsky & Hutch,” “Karen Sisco,” and “Lost”.

Bill is legendary for his directing prowess and agility in television and film as the first Black director on numerous television shows. His credits for film and television include, “Falcon Crest,” “Dallas,” “Knots Landing,” “Fame,” “Hill Street Blues,” “Miami Vice,” and PBSʼ “The Killing Floor” for which he won the Sundance Special Jury Award in 1985, just to name a few.

The accolades continued with a feature film directorial debut in 1991 for “A Rage in Harlem,” which was an official selection at the Cannes Film Festival for the prestigious Palme dʼOr. This global recognition led to further opportunities including directing feature more feature films and documentaries: “Sister Act 2,” “Deep Cover,” “Hoodlum,” “The Cemetery Club,” “Not Easily Broken,” “Deacons for Defense,” and the documentaries “Dark Girls” and “Light Girls”.

“Dark Girls” aired on Oprah Winfrey's OWN Network and succeeded as one of the most successful programs on the network.

Most recently, Bill directed the feature film, “Created Equal” and was featured in the documentaries, “What is a Man,” and “What is a Woman”. He's currently working on several film and TV projects. Bill's autobiography, “Bill Duke: My 40-Year Career on Screen and Behind the Camera” was released in November 2018. He also authored “The Journey: Tale of Human Healing” and “Works of the Invisible Man”.

Throughout the course of his career, Bill Duke has been recognized by prestigious leaders and institutions for his work in television and film. He was appointed to the National Endowment of Humanities by President Bill Clinton and the Board of the California State and Film Commission by Former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. He has also served on the Board of Trustees at the American Film Institute and as the Time Warner Endowed Chair in the Department of Radio, Television, and Film at Howard University. He was also recognized by his peers with a Lifetime Achievement Tribute from the Directors Guild of America’s African- American Steering Committee in 2010. In May of 2022, Bill was honored at The Jonathan Foundation for Learning Disabilities Gala for being an entertainment legend and humanitarian. On June 20, 2022, Bill was honored to be in the Kingdom Day Parade with Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti. November 19, 2022, Bill gained another honor at the 11th Annual “I've Known Rivers Film Festival when he received the Living Legend Award along with a Certificate of Appreciation from the California Assembly.

In addition to working on creative projects in Hollywood, the multi-hyphenate superstar has added another sobriquet to his long list of titles--digital network owner. On May 9, 2022, the YOUNITE Network launched, and will morph into a global media force, with global initiatives in the works. Bill also created Duke Media Entertainment to bring quality "Edutainment" to audiences around the globe. He coined the word to symbolize entertainment that also includes an educational element for the audience. Formerly Yagya Productions, Duke Media has successfully produced critically acclaimed film and television content for more than 30 years.

Additionally, Duke Media is in process of expanding its brand through the development of new media technologies, i.e. cellphone apps, games, and virtual/metaverse world experiences. Since the early 70s, Bill Duke along with industry veterans Michael Shultz and Gordon Parks, have long paved the way for the furtherance of African American actors, writers, directors, and producers in the entertainment and technology industries. Bill Duke has taught the fundamentals of acting to many young aspiring thespians which includes some of today's superstars such as Taraji P. Henson, Anthony Anderson, Shemar Moore, LisaRaye McCoy, Kevin Carroll, Monica Calhoun, Chris Spencer and Emayatzy Corinealdi.

Giving back has been a large part of Bill's Hollywood legacy. He runs the Duke Media Foundation, which for the last ten years has prepared youth for the future by exposing them to specific new media and financial literacy tools. This will enable them to compete, survive, and thrive. The economy is experiencing a paradigm shift far beyond film and TV to media. Film and TV are still important parts of the entertainment landscape.  However, new media content has become a dominant force to be reckoned with. Bill encourages students to explore and master new technology as it emerges and evolves.

About For the Love of the Motherland

“For the Love of the Motherland” will reflect how the Tigray War in Ethiopia has fueled divides members of the diaspora. A war that has killed an estimated 162,000-378,000 people, with other reported estimates reaching numbers as high as 600,000 killed.

For many Ethiopians residing in Los Angeles, the premiere of “For the Love of the Motherland” represents a significant moment of cultural recognition and storytelling. Theodore Teshome, whose previous works have garnered critical acclaim for their poignant portrayal of Ethiopian history and identity, has spent years meticulously researching and crafting this film to capture the multifaceted narratives of individuals directly impacted by the conflict.

“For the Love of the Motherland” will reflect how the Tigray War in Ethiopia has fueled divides members of the diaspora. A war that has killed an estimated 162,000-378,000 people, with other reported estimates reaching numbers as high as 600,000 killed.

The film tells the intimate story of Hayelom and Lielt who are deeply in love. He is from Tigray region in Ethiopia and she is from Ethiopia’s Amhara region. Their love faces an expected turn when Tigray militants invade the Amhara region to take over power of the central government. He joins the militants, she joins the Ethiopian Defense Force, and they become enemies looking to kill one another.

Directed and written by Theodros Teshome Kebede, the film stars Debebe Eshetu, Getahun Hailu, and Tsigereda Bekele.

Hallmark Red Carpet Premiere for ‘Sense and Sensibility’ at the Pan African Film & Arts Festival

PAN AFRICAN FILM & ARTS FESTIVAL RED CARPET SCREENING FOR SENSE AND SENSIBILITY – A Hallmark Mahogany Original

Starring Deborah Ayorinde (Actor, “Elinor”), Roger Bobb (Director), Tia A. Smith (Executive Producer), Kara Saun (Costume Designer) Toni Judkins (SVP Programming & Development, Mahogany Originals, Hallmark Media)

About the Film

Deborah Ayorinde (Them), Bethany Antonia (House of the Dragon), Dan Jeannotte (The Royal Nanny) and Akil Largie (The Sandman) star in a beautiful period adaptation in Sense and Sensibility, a new, original movie and Mahogany Original, premiering Saturday, February 24 (8 p.m. ET/PT), on Hallmark Channel.  The movie is part of the network’s Loveuary with Jane Austen programming event, honoring the author’s timeless legacy with four all-new original movie premieres, every Saturday in February.  Set in Regency-era England, it features original costumes by Kara Saun (Project Runway) and hair designs by Kim Kimble (Euphoria). Author and historian Vanessa Riley (Island Queen) served as a historical consultant.

LindsayLuvzU Productions Announces Debut Screening of “Maharlika Warrior Spirit” at the Pan African Film Festival

MAHARLIKA 5X7 FLYER PAFF BOTH DATES

Los Angeles, CA - LindsayLuvzU Productions is thrilled to announce the nomination and screening of its most recent film, "Maharlika Warrior Spirit," at the prestigious Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF). The film will debut on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 1:00 PM, and a second screening will follow on Friday, February 16, 2024, at 3:40 PM. These screenings will take place in Los Angeles at the Cinemark Baldwin Hills & XD Movie Theater, located at 4020 Marlton Ave.

"Maharlika Warrior Spirit" is an anti-sex trafficking movie that is set to ignite a movement disguised as a film. This multi-channel production transcends traditional storytelling by using film, music, documentaries, and live events to raise awareness about the sensitive and often overlooked issue of sex trafficking. The story follows Tala, a defense attorney with a strong moral compass, who is forced to confront the ineffectiveness of the law when her best friend becomes a victim of sex trafficking. Embarking on a journey of self-discovery, she awakens to her ancient warrior spirit.

At its very core, the movie is not only a call to action but also a beacon of hope for victims and a rallying cry for societal change. With the movie’s official release, LindsayLuvzU Productions is leading the charge with a vision that differs from its contemporaries, embodying the spirit of innovation akin to the work of Spike Lee.

"LindsayLuvzU Productions stands at the intersection of activism and entertainment, and with 'Maharlika Warrior Spirit,' we aim to not just tell a story, but to spur a cultural metamorphosis," says Lindsay Castillo, founder, and CEO of LindsayLuvzU Productions. "It's time to shine a light on the darkness of sex trafficking, and we are committed to empowering women and inspiring audiences to take action."

The film is part of a larger endeavor by the company, including the documentary, "Traffik ‘n’ Sex, An Anti-Sex Trafficking Movement," which provides a grounded perspective of trafficking through the eyes of survivors. Additionally, the world’s first anti-sex trafficking concept album, "Traffik ‘n’ Sex," is set to engage fans and raise awareness through music.

It is also important to note that LindsayLuvzU Productions' unique approach extends beyond the screen, with the establishment of "Traffik n’ Sex," a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting victims of sex trafficking by connecting safe-houses nationwide and encouraging public discourse on the issue.

For more information about "Maharlika Warrior Spirit" and the non-profit organization, please visit https://maharlikaminiseries.com/.

About LindsayLuvzU Productions

LindsayLuvzU Productions is a cinematic platform for change, founded by the accomplished Lindsay Castillo, whose life experiences have shaped her into a storyteller with a cause. Castillo's journey began i he diverse streets of Oakland, California, where she cultivated her passion for performance and her deep sense of social responsibility. Growing up, she witnessed the challenges of entrepreneurship within her family and the broader community, experiences that instilled in her the drive to pursue her own business ventures with a philanthropic edge.

Castillo's evolution from a student activist engaged in cultural and social justice organizations to a prominent advocate for women's rights and anti-sex trafficking initiatives underscores her dedication to making a substantive impact through her work in the film industry. With LindsayLuvzU Productions, Castillo has found a way to channel her advocacy into creative expression, producing content that doesn't just tell stories but also educates and mobilizes audiences towards action.

This commitment to blending art with activism is deeply personal for Castillo. Her experiences with marginalized communities, her active role in pivotal social movements, and her educational background in broadcast arts and gender studies have all contributed to her unique perspective as a filmmaker and activist. LindsayLuvzU Productions is not just a company but a reflection of Castillo's lifelong commitment to justice, empowerment, and the belief that change begins with powerful storytelling.

Contact Information

Lindsay Castillo
LLU@LindsayLuvzU.com

510-543-3923
https://maharlikaminiseries.com/

Documentary from John Deere and Al Roker Entertainment Puts the Spotlight on Land Ownership Challenges Facing Black Farmers

MOLINE, Illinois (June 13, 2023) – Deere & Company (NYSE: DE) and Al Roker Entertainment today announced a new documentary focused on the legacy of Black farming in America and the devastating impact of heirs’ property – property passed to family members by inheritance, usually without a will or proper estate planning. Without a clear title, Black farmers are unable to qualify for government assistance, equipment financing or agricultural programs designed to optimize their land. In 2020, John Deere created the LEAP Coalition in partnership with the National Black Growers Council and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund to provide resources for farmers and landowners to resolve heirs’ property issues.

“This film serves as an important platform for Black farmers to delve into their history while also discussing impactful ways to sustain agriculture and places to go for help with legislation and available grants,” said Al Roker, executive producer. “The organizations featured in the film are creating change and it’s one of the reasons our company was so interested in getting involved with this important work.”

Created in partnership with Emmy-nominated director Eternal Polk, the documentary, Gaining Ground: The Fight for Black Land, addresses how landowners are reclaiming their agricultural rights and their paths to generational wealth. The film will debut at the American Black Film Festival in Miami on June 15, 2023, and appear in screenings across the country this summer.

“Documentaries can offer a lens into history and shed light on a forgotten or untold story. It's more than just a form of storytelling, it's a way to offer new viewpoints on an issue, create lasting dialogue, and drive change,” said Gaining Ground director Eternal Polk. “With Deere’s support, we were honored to help bring this important story to life. This documentary provides resources to those who are dealing with heirs’ property and shows others how they can get involved to support this cause.”

Black land ownership peaked in 1910 at 16 to 19 million acres, which was about 14 percent of total arable land in the United States. A century later, 90 percent of Black-owned land has been lost, and heirs' property has been the leading cause for that decline. The documentary shines a spotlight on the challenges Black farmers and landowners’ must navigate to preserve their land for future generations. The film additionally showcases subject matter experts and practitioners who are actively working to address these issues.

"For farmers, land provides more than a livelihood, it provides a legacy. For far too long, Black farmers have had to deal with often coercive constraints, barriers and systems that result in involuntary loss of land, economic value and wealth. This documentary provides an opportunity for folks to tell their stories, highlight injustice and hopefully serve as a catalyst for concerted action to address this little known but important and pervasive issue” said Marc Howze, Senior Advisor, Office of the Chairman, Deere and Company. "The message of this documentary is clear: We need to do more to help Black farmers and landowners unlock the tremendous value in the land they already own to help us feed, clothe and shelter a growing population while pursuing opportunities to build wealth and provide a legacy for future generations.”

ABOUT THE LEAP COALITION 

John Deere created the LEAP Coalition in 2020 in partnership with the National Black Growers Council and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. The LEAP Coalition provides legal, educational and other resources to help farmers and landowning families gain clear title of their land. It works to unlock economic value for farmers, while also eliminating systemic barriers to wealth building faced by Black farmers and other historically disadvantaged communities.

To learn more about the LEAP Coalition, to help Black farmers, and provide support to support LEAP coalition partners visit: https://www.deere.com/gainingground.

To learn more about the documentary, visit: https://gaininggroundthefilm.com/.

About John Deere

Deere & Company (www.JohnDeere.com) is a global leader in the delivery of agricultural, construction, and forestry equipment. We help our customers push the boundaries of what's possible in ways that are more productive and sustainable to help life leap forward. Our technology-enabled products including John Deere Autonomous 8R Tractor and tillage solution, See & Spray™, and E-Power Backhoe are just some of the ways we help meet the world's increasing need for food, shelter, and infrastructure. Deere & Company also provides financial services through John Deere Financial.

For more information on Deere & Company, visit us at www.deere.com/en/news/.

About Al Roker Entertainment

Formed in 1994, Al Roker Entertainment (ARE) is an industry-leading producer of original, award-winning TV programs and digital content. Led by 14-time Emmy winning TV personality and trusted media authority Al Roker, ARE partners with a creative consortium of producers, directors, writers, agencies, and talent to ideate, produce, activate, and amplify original content globally, using a variety of broadcast, cable, OTT, social, and streaming platforms. ARE works with brands, non-profits, ad agencies, and PR companies to generate and inspire audiences through social impact branded entertainment storytelling.