Sharafa Odusanya

The black carpet premiere of Moses the Black took place Tuesday, January 20 at the Pacific Design Center, bringing together film, faith, and culture for a powerful night centered on redemption and transformation. Industry guests, cast, creatives, and supporters gathered to celebrate the upcoming release ahead of its nationwide theatrical debut on January 30.

Photo credit: @jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson

Upon arrival, guests were welcomed with signature complimentary cocktails inspired by the film’s themes. A tequila-based cocktail titled The Light set the tone for the evening, alongside a vodka cocktail called The Sword and a mezcal cocktail named Saving Grace. Complimentary bites and cocktails were available throughout the premiere, creating an elevated yet intimate atmosphere that matched the film’s emotional weight. Following the screening, the celebration continued at the official after party at Rokusho LA, where guests enjoyed additional complimentary cocktails and a hand roll bar. The after party offered a relaxed setting for conversation, reflection, and celebration of the film’s message and creative achievement.

Moses the Black is written and directed by Yelena Popovic, who also serves as a producer on the film. The crime drama reimagines the story of the 4th-century saint St. Moses the Black within modern-day Chicago. The film follows Malik, played by Omar Epps, a former gang leader recently released from prison who finds himself torn between vengeance and spiritual awakening.

@jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson

@jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson

The cast includes Omar Epps, Wiz Khalifa, Quavo, Chukwudi Iwuji, Skilla Baby, Sambou “Bubba” Camara, and Deontay Wilder. The film is executive produced by Curtis ’50 Cent’ Jackson through G-Unit Film and Television. With a soundtrack featuring Wiz Khalifa and Quavo, the film blends contemporary hip hop culture with themes of faith, accountability, and the possibility of change.

The premiere also drew a notable group of guest who came out in support. Attendees included Big Boy, actor Johnell Young, rapper D Smoke, Gianni Paolo, Kris Lofton, former USC Trojans and Pittsburgh Steelers star Troy Polamalu, and Leslie David Baker. Their presence added to the sense of community and cultural crossover that defined the evening.

From a personal standpoint, the film left a strong impression. I genuinely enjoyed the screening and admired the level of nuance throughout the story, particularly how it explored the idea that many people are shaped by their environments. Ultimately, Moses the Black is a film that asks viewers to slow down and sit with complexity. It does not rush its message or offer easy answers, but instead invites empathy by showing how environment, circumstance, and personal history shape the choices people make. The story balances faith and realism in a way that feels intentional, not preachy, and deeply human.  It was also refreshing to see artists I have listened to for years, especially Wiz Khalifa and Skilla Baby, step into acting roles. Their performances felt natural, and it would be exciting to see both of them take on more film and television roles moving forward.

The story draws inspiration from the real-life journey of St. Moses the Black, an Ethiopian slave who rose to become a feared bandit leader before ultimately finding redemption. That historical foundation gives the film emotional depth while grounding its modern narrative in a story that continues to resonate today.

As the film heads toward its theatrical release on January 30, Moses the Black stands out as more than a crime drama. It is a meditation on accountability, grace, and the possibility of change, especially for those who come from environments where survival often comes before reflection. The premiere itself reflected that same spirit, bringing together creatives, cultural leaders, and community voices for a night rooted in intention and conversation. This is a film that lingers after the credits roll, encouraging viewers to consider not only who people are, but who they are still becoming.

@jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson

@jenjphoto/ Jennifer Johnson