The New Orleans 2017 Essence Festival, took place from the 29th of June to the 2nd of July. In case you missed it, know the NETFLIX was there. NEFLIX premiered 2 movies and brought some of our favorite people and favorite shows all in one place.
“The Incredible Jessica James” is a film that is going to be available on NETFLIX July 28th. It was premiered in the festival. Jessica Williams and Writer/Director Jim Strouse were there to represent the film. This film is a comedy based in New York City. It is honest, “shockingly” relatable, odd and meant to showcase the ‘survival’ mode of those in their 20s tackling their dreams and lives.
Another movie that is to be available on NETFLIX the 11th of August is Marlon Wayans’s movie “Naked”. It was premiered during the festival. Marlon Wayans is one of the funniest actors there is. Now, let’s add in a story of a man who can’t make it down the altar as he finds himself waking up naked in the hotel elevator, every time he tries to make it to the altar. This is an oddly hilarious situation and one that we are excited to see Marlon Wayan portray.
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JUNE 30: JT Jackson, Loretta Devine, Marlon Wayans, Michael Tiddes, Regina Hall and Dennis Haysbert attend the Premiere of Netflix Original Film “Naked” At The 2017 Essence Festival at Civic Theatre on June 30, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images for Netflix)
There’s still no release date for this movie, but “Mudbound” is a film that Mary J Blige and director and co-writer Dee Rees, were there to discuss. They even showed the audience a clip from the movie. This is a story that takes place post WWII about two families whos situations and social statuses pitted them against one another. Themes of friendship and struggle come into play as the plot thickens and the events unfold.
Working on an original NETFLIX series is Spike Lee, who was joined by executive producer Tonya Lewis Lee and the rest of the cast, to drop a sneak peek of the show “She’s Gotta Have it”. Leaving the audience excited for what this show would bring. This series is meant to be 10 episodes long and showcasing Brooklyn based artist Nola Darling as she makes it through life finding herself and understanding as well as dividing her time with those around her.
The cast of Orange is the New Black and Dear White People were at the festival, on center stage and even had a meet and greet with their fans.
Dear White People is a show that really stirred a lot of conversation amongst people. The cast announced that there will be a season two coming soon.
Marque Richardson, Ashley Blaine Featherson, Logan Browning, Antoinette Robertson, DeRon Horton and Brandon P. Bell of Dear White People speak onstage during Netflix At Essence Festival 2017 – Day 1 on June 30, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images for Netflix)
This year’s festival marks 23 years. Essence festival continues to bring culture, empowerment, and music to a weekend full of celebration and delight.
Additional sighting: As exclusive automotive sponsor for the ninth consecutive year, Ford provided attendees the opportunity to get up close and personal with its latest lineup of vehicles, including the all-new 2018 Ford Expedition and 2018 Ford F-150. R&B singers Tank, India.Arie and Elle Varner graced the Ford booth stage as well as Empire stars Bryshere Y. Gray and Ta’Rhonda Jones. Joseph Sikora also stopped by for an interview. Festival goers had the opportunity to register to test drive the newest vehicles in the Ford lineup, including the 2017 Ford Explorer, 2017 Ford Escape and 2017 Ford Fusion. One lucky registrant was presented keys to a brand-new 2018 Ford Mustang on Sunday by comedienne and daytime talk show host Loni Love and Raj Register, Ford Multicultural Communications Manager.
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