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Tag: Angela Davis

  • Taraji P. Henson Stars in Netflix Faith Drama

    Get ready for a powerful dose of inspiration! Netflix is gearing up to release its latest faith-based drama, ‘Tis So Sweet,’ and it’s bringing some serious star power. With Taraji P. Henson leading an ensemble cast that reads like an awards show lineup, this film is already generating major buzz.

    A Story of Healing and Purpose

    The film is based on the incredible true story of Lenore Lindsey, a Chicago bakery owner whose life takes an unexpected turn. After a shocking discovery, Lindsey embarks on a journey of healing, faith, and finding her true purpose. Production is currently underway in Atlanta, promising a soulful and heartwarming cinematic experience.

    Taraji P. Henson is at the helm, delivering what’s sure to be another captivating performance. But she’s not alone – she’s joined by a dynamic ensemble guaranteed to bring depth and emotion to this inspirational story.

    Meet the Powerhouse Cast

    The cast of ‘Tis So Sweet’ is truly something special. Alongside Taraji P. Henson, the film features:

    • Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor (King Richard, Ray)
    • Russell Hornsby (The Hate U Give, Fences)
    • Alexis Louder (Copshop)
    • Joey Bada$$ (Jo-Vaughn Virginie Scott)
    • Semaj Prather
    • Arischa Conner
    • Angela Davis (Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, The Good Daughter)
    • Caroline Avery Granger (Cobra Kai)
    • Tasha Smith
    • DeVon Franklin

    With this level of talent involved, ‘Tis So Sweet’ is already setting high expectations for award-worthy performances.

    Behind the Scenes: A Proven Partnership

    The film is helmed by director Tasha Smith, known for her work on ‘Mayor of Kingstown.’ The script comes from writer Randy Brown, who also penned ‘Miracles From Heaven.’ Adding to the star power, the film is produced by the dynamic duo DeVon Franklin and Tyler Perry, marking their second faith-based collaboration with Netflix.

    Their first project together, ‘Ruth & Boaz,’ debuted at #2 on Netflix’s Global Top 10 Movies List, so the anticipation for ‘Tis So Sweet’ is understandably high. This partnership has already proven successful in delivering impactful faith-based content.

    Which actor in the ‘Tis So Sweet’ cast are you most excited to see? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for all the latest celebrity news!

  • Assata Shakur Documentary & Series in Development

    The powerful story of political activist Assata Shakur is set to be brought to a new generation through upcoming documentary and scripted projects. Renowned activist and professor Angela Davis is joining the initiative as an executive producer, lending her influential voice to the endeavor.

    A Collaborative Vision for Shakur’s Story

    Filmmakers Giselle and Stephen Bailey, known for HBO’s “Seen & Heard: The History of Black Television,” are developing both projects under their banner, Indigo Films. They have secured authorization from Shakur’s daughter, Kakuya Shakur, and civil rights attorney Lennox Hinds, who represented Shakur, has granted them exclusive access. This collaboration aims to provide a comprehensive look at Shakur’s life and legacy.

    Giselle and Stephen Bailey stated, “Assata’s story is important to all Americans as it reveals the powers that divide us and our capacity to heal.” Their goal is to shed light on the complexities of Shakur’s journey and its relevance to contemporary issues.

    Context of Shakur’s Life and Legacy

    The announcement follows the passing of Assata Shakur on September 25 in Havana, Cuba, where she had been living in political asylum since her escape from prison in 1979. Born Joanne Chesimard, Shakur was a member of the Black Liberation Army and was convicted in 1977 for her alleged involvement in a 1973 shootout that resulted in the death of a New Jersey State Trooper. She was serving a life sentence before her escape.

    Supporters argue that Shakur’s conviction was based on insufficient evidence, citing factors like the absence of gunpowder residue on her hands and her injuries sustained during the incident. Angela Davis has been a vocal advocate for Shakur, calling her “innocent” and highlighting her case as an example of the police brutality and racism faced by activists during that era.

    Bringing Shakur’s Story to a New Audience

    Davis, who wrote the foreword for the 2014 edition of “Assata: An Autobiography,” praised Shakur as a “compassionate human being committed to justice.” She has consistently pointed out how Shakur was targeted by the FBI and COINTELPRO, emphasizing that the issues Shakur fought against—police violence, healthcare disparities, and mass incarceration—remain relevant today.

    With both a documentary and a scripted project in development, Assata Shakur’s compelling narrative and enduring legacy are poised to educate and inspire a new generation, encouraging deeper understanding of her fight for justice and the broader struggles for civil rights.

    What are your thoughts on the upcoming projects about Assata Shakur? Share your perspectives in the comments below!