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EntertainmentEventsFilmUncategorized

LA Premiere: Adam Sandler’s Animated Comedy Leo

by Katherine Wright November 22, 2023
written by Katherine Wright

The Knockturnal attended the Los Angeles premiere of Adam Sandler’s animated comedy “Leo,” held at the Regency Village Theatre in Westwood Village on Sunday, November 19th.

The star-studded carpet included producer, writer, and titular character Adam Sandler, comedian and actor Bill Burr, along with directors Robert Marianetti, Robert Smigel, David Wachtenheim, and many more.

 

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“Leo” is a heartwarming story about an elementary school’s 74-year-old pet lizard, weary from the exhausting repetition of substitute teachers, overbearing students, and general childhood tomfoolery. With only one year left in his life, he decides to escape the classroom and embark on a chaotic journey in the outside world, launching a hilarious and absurd musical adventure riddled with Adam Sandler’s beloved humor.

Watch “Leo” now on Netflix!

November 22, 2023 0 comment
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EntertainmentEventsFilmThe Latest

Life on Our Planet: Netflix meets Scientific and Cinematic Triumph

by Ashley Lopez November 3, 2023
written by Ashley Lopez

In the vast landscape of Netflix documentaries, “Life on Our Planet” has emerged as a groundbreaking work of art and science. The series, narrated by the iconic Morgan Freeman, takes viewers on an enthralling journey through Earth’s history, illuminating the incredible story of evolution. Recently, the masterminds behind the show gathered to unveil the intricacies of its creation. During the presentation, key questions were addressed, shedding light on the meticulous craftsmanship and scientific precision that brought this monumental series to life.

Netflix’s gripping documentary series, ‘Life on Our Planet,’ offers viewers a mesmerizing journey through Earth’s four-billion-year history, a story largely untold in the way that the creators have in this series. With cutting-edge science and technology, the series vividly resurrects long-extinct species, shedding light on the epic struggle for survival that has shaped our planet. This eight-part production executively produced by Steven Spilberg, delves into the five mass extinction events that have left their indelible mark on Earth’s ecosystem, while also confronting the present-day environmental crisis, often noted as the ‘sixth extinction.’ Narrated by the the one and only Morgan Freeman, ‘Life on Our Planet’ takes audiences on a captivating voyage from the dawn of life itself, through the emergence of terrestrial creatures, to the catastrophic downfall of the dinosaurs and the rise of humanity. Through breathtaking visuals and animation, the series underscores the crucial role of humans as stewards of the planet, urging us to address the environmental challenges we face today to ensure a sustainable future.

Life on Our Planet” serves as a poignant call to action for audiences worldwide. The series aims to not only inform but also inspire viewers to take an active role in safeguarding our planet. It unfolds Earth’s remarkable history, from the dawn of life to the intricate ecosystems of today, while emphasizing the urgent need to address the environmental challenges of our time. The presentation shed light on how the series meticulously blended cinematic artistry with scientific authenticity.

Upon entering the theater for the “Life on Our Planet” presentation, it was an exciting and anticipatory atmosphere considering it was inside the famous Amblin Theatre located on the Universal Studios Lot. The audience settled into their seats as the panel of experts, including Dr. Tom Fletcher, Justin Falvey, Johnathan Privette, Keith Scholey, Alastair Forthergrill and Dan Tapster took the stage. Their presence added a significant and prestigious element to the event, and it was clear that something remarkable was about to happen. The Q&A session allowed these experts to provide insights into the making of the series, making the audience feel fortunate to be part of this unique experience.

During the event, the Q&A session came to life with engaging discussions and in-depth answers from the experts. The clips from the Netflix show, “Life on Our Planet,” were seamlessly integrated, providing a visual feast that showcased the stunning and realistic recreations of prehistoric creatures. The audience was captivated by the insightful explanations and the intricate process behind the series’ creation. The Amblin Theatre became a hub of knowledge and inspiration, where attendees not only learned about the show but were also moved by the urgent message of environmental conservation shared by the panelists. The clips and discussions left a lasting impression, reinforcing the significance of understanding our planet’s history to secure its future. Considering this series will have such an anticpating ending I decided to ask a question that would answer viewers main question after finishing this series.

Question:

Hello. Considering that a lot of documentaries, as you said, don’t have many cliffhangers, and the series took kind of a while to make, this is gonna make viewers binge watch and want another season. When can viewers expect another season when it took so long for the first one?

DAN: [laugh]
KEITH: Oh, we’d have to hand that over to the legal team.
EVERYONE: [laugh]
FEMALE: We’re very thrilled with this series.

EVERYONE: [laugh]
ALASTAIR: You put her on the spot now. [laugh] I’ll tell you tomorrow, though. [laugh]

KEITH: We learned some efficiencies along the way when it came to shooting VFX. There was a long period of R and D just to figure out how we were gonna pull it off. And so, I think if there ever was to be a follow-up, it wouldn’t take us as long.
ALASTAIR: I think we also feel we’ve hit a new [seat?]. You know, in tele world, actually really new ways of doing things, new ideas, new seams are hard to find. And we think with this series, we’ve hit a new seam. It’s got this, sort of this driving narrative that goes through a natural history series, which we worked [indiscernible] a long time. Driving narrative is hard in normal [indiscernible], but this one, it’s just natural and it goes through like a roller coaster. And there’s so many fantastic stories about our past world which we think we can bring to the screen in this way. So, we’re reallyexcited about this series, but also the place it could take us to.

“Life on Our Planet” is a testament to the incredible results that can be achieved through a fusion of scientific accuracy and artistic craftsmanship. The presentation offered invaluable insights into the passion, dedication, and meticulous planning that brought this insightful documentary to life. With educational initiatives in the pipeline, the series promises to not only entertain but also inspire future generations to become staunch advocates for our natural world. As the legacy of “Life on Our Planet” continues to grow, it marks a turning point in the realm of nature documentaries, elevating the genre to new heights of excellence.

November 3, 2023 0 comment
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Film

Fair Play: Private Screening of Chloe Domont’s Latest Film Captivates Audiences

by Lulu Wang October 7, 2023
written by Lulu Wang

The drama starring Phoebe Dynevor and Alden Ehrenreich is on Netflix starting October 6.

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October 7, 2023 0 comment
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Fashion & Beauty

Netflix’s Heartstopper and Good Light Cosmetics Team Up For Season 2 Premiere

by Isabella Japal August 11, 2023
written by Isabella Japal

Queer teenagers, Charlie (Joe Locke) and Nick (Kit Connor) of Heartstopper stole the hearts of millions of viewers across the globe last spring as they navigated high school, friendships, and of course, young love. The show, based on the graphic novel by Alice Oseman, launched its second season on Netflix last week. The premiere coincided with the launch of the Heartstopper x Good Light Cosmetics collaboration. Good Light Cosmetics is an AAPI and queer-owned brand with a  “[focus] on moving culture forward by promoting a more inclusive definition of beauty through product and purpose.”  

Good Light Cosmtics celebrated their joint venture with Netflix last week at the Bryant Park Hotel. Guests entered the hotel’s theater space which was decorated with Good Light’s products and stickers featuring each member of the Heartstopper’s cast. Guests could grab candy bags filled with delicious British treats like Cadbury chocolate and Maltesers and of course, popcorn bags covered in stickers from the Good Light collection. Each seat included a Good Light Cosmetics tote bag that included a Charlie and Nick figurine, a collector’s edition box of Good Light products (including the Cosmic Dew Water Cleanser, Moon Glow Milky Toning lotion, Order of the Eclipse Hyaluronic Cream, Luna Pimple Patches, Gay Panic magnet and sticker sheet), and a 16 month weekly and monthly planner. 

The event kicked off with moving words from Good Light Cosmetic’s founder David Yi, followed by a screening of the first two episodes of Heartstopper’s second season. “This is a brand where we can celebrate who we are, no matter our background, no matter what people say to us, no matter what society deems we should be. On all of our packages the mascot is the moth, not a butterfly. The butterfly gets to bask its wings in the daytime, agulated in pop culture and history. We all love the butterfly, it’s objectively beautiful. But the moth is the ugly stepchild or the ugly sibling, relegated to the darkness, told that it belongs in the shadows. And I feel what is so remarkable about the moth, even in its deepest darkest despair, even when the chips are down, even when society tells you that you don’t deserve to be seen, the moth will always find the light. And so too shall you and so too shall I,” said David. 

Heartstopper’s seasons one and two are currently available for streaming on Netflix. Check out the limited edition Heartstopper x Good Light Cosmetics set and keep your eyes peeled for the “Paris Squad” card—you may just end up winning a free year of Netflix and Good Light products! 

August 11, 2023 0 comment
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EntertainmentThe LatestTVVideo

On The Scene: Survivial Of The Thickest Carpet And Premiere Party in NYC

by Briana Boateng July 19, 2023
written by Briana Boateng

The cast celebrates their hilarious new sitcom, Survival Of The Thickest at NYC’s Metrograph!

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July 19, 2023 0 comment
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EntertainmentEventsThe Latest

Gabrielle Union, Keith Powers, and Director Numa Perrier Gets Candid on How To Find “The Perfect Find”

by Jan D. June 23, 2023
written by Jan D.

The cast of The Perfect Find hits the red carpet during the 27th annual American Black Film
Festival. Not only did they pull up wearing stunning fashion pieces from top designers like
Burc Akyol, Greg Lauren, and House of Aama, but they also gave advice to fans who are
still on a search for their own perfect find.

The film was screened in Miami Beach at the New World Symphony for ABFF Passholders.
This film follows a fashion editor’s career making a comeback but hits a snag when she learns
the charming young stranger she kissed at a party is her new coworker — who happens to be her                                              boss’ son.

We initially spoke with the film’s director, Numa Perrier, who is making her return back to ABFF
after winning best director and best feature awards for Jezebel in 2019. “I just saw Jeff and
Nicole Friday, who is right there, and we gave each other big hugs,” Perrier exclaimed, “and it
just feels so good to be back”! She then told us a tip for finding the perfect find, “Really, be
yourself. Let it go and be yourself, and don’t try to control the outcome. I think that’s kind of the
moral of the story here.”

MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA – JUNE 16: (L-R) Gabrielle Union and Keith Powers attend ‘The Perfect Find’ Centerpiece Screening at American Black Film Festival at New World Center on June 16, 2023 in Miami Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jason Koerner/Getty Images for Netflix)

Gabrielle Union-Wade, who plays Jenna in the film, stopped by in her Burk Akyol sheer bodycon dress. She is known for playing many iconic “It girl” roles, such as Isis (Bring It On), Conny Spalding (Two Can Play That Game), and so on. Aside her from water and boundaries being her main beauty tip, Union shares her secret to the perfect find, “You have to understand that you are the perfect find. Instead of searching for somebody else that completes you, you must understand that you are always your perfect find.”

Keith Powers is best known for his role as Ronnie DeVoe in BET’s miniseries The New Edition Story. He plays alongside Union-Wade as her love interest, Eric, in the film. “Eric is an aspiring director. When you meet him, he’s living with his mom, trying to figure out life while she cares for him.” Powers added, “You get to see him grow and have mature moments, but you also see that he has a lot to work on.” Ultimately, just like Gabriella Union and Numa Perrier, he emphasizes the importance of you being the perfect find. “Find yourself first; many of us hop into relationships with many traumas, and we put that trauma into someone we say we love.”

 

MIAMI, FLORIDA – JUNE 16: The Perfect Find Courtesy of Netflix screening during Day 3 of the American Black Film Festival at the New World Center on June 16, 2023 in Miami, FL. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton / ABFF)

The Perfect Find is now streaming on Netflix.

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June 23, 2023 0 comment
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EntertainmentFilmThe Latest

John Boyega, Teyonah Parris, and Director Juel Taylor talks “They Cloned Tyrone” at ABFF!

by Jan D. June 17, 2023
written by Jan D.

Things are heating up in Miami Beach as ABFF makes a return for their 27th annual film festival! With They Cloned Tyrone being the opening night film, movie goers got to see actor John Boyega, who played Fontaine in the film, get into character by serving three separate red carpet looks.

With his final red carpet appearance, The Knockturnal had the opportunity to speak with him about his role and rise to success.

“It’s a celebration of blaxploitation films! This movie was fun to make and made us connect so well,” He shared. “I play the role of Fontaine, and he’s going through an early life crisis after finding out he’s a clone. [This movie] shows the process of that investigation.” he further explained. As Boyega continues his rise to fame, we can’t help but to notice how authentic he remains while navigating the industry as a British actor.

MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA – JUNE 14: John Boyega attends as They Cloned Tyrone opens The American Black Film Festival at New World Center on June 14, 2023 in Miami Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jason Koerner/Getty Images for Netflix)

“It first starts with the ability to be comfortable being yourself. There are a couple of obstacles you have to
go through; your personality may not make everybody happy. Once you’re confident in yourself, whatever
that process is, you can step into those spaces  and don’t care about what anyone says.”

Teyonah Parris, who plays yo-yo in the film, also stopped by to give us more insight into her character. “We shall say
[yoyo] is a…. pro at what she does. She’s ambitious, intelligent, and doesn’t take no for an answer.” She goes on to say that Director Juel Taylor gave them the space to make their own creative choice which allowed the cast to play around with the boundaries in cinema.

With this being his first directorial debut, Juel Taylor praises ABFF for the support and positivity they constantly show him.

“It’s amazing, and I love the energy; you know how it is when black folks get together. I’m blessed!” He
continued emphasizing how collaborating with the cast has been an excellent experience. “They all bring so
much more to the characters than I ever imagined. I’m constantly surprised by the choices they
make.”

Although Jamiee Foxx wasn’t able to attend the carpet, his co-stars made sure to give him his flowers while he is still making a recovery.

MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA – JUNE 14: John Boyega, Teyonah Parris, and Juel Taylor attend as They Cloned Tyrone opens The American Black Film Festival at New World Center on June 14, 2023 in Miami Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jason Koerner/Getty Images for Netflix)

Netflix’s They Cloned Tyrone will be premiering on July 21, 2023.

June 17, 2023 0 comment
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EventsTV

Annie Murphy and Salma Hayek Pinault Surprise Appearance at ‘Black Mirror’ Premiere

by Staff June 14, 2023
written by Staff

Talk about life imitating art!

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June 14, 2023 0 comment
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EntertainmentThe LatestTV

On The Scene: Netflix and Teen Vogue Host Never Have I Ever “Had An Inspiration Like You” Tastemaker Reception in Celebration of Season 4

by Sydney Hargrove June 8, 2023
written by Sydney Hargrove

After years of theoretically growing up with Maitreyi Ramakrishnan’s Devi, the critically acclaimed coming-of-age series Never Have I Ever is nearing its end. The Netflix show, created by Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher, captured the hearts of viewers with its relatable characters, witty humor, and thought-provoking storylines that made so many feel represented and seen. The highly anticipated 4th and final season will premiere tomorrow, June 8th, on Netflix.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 06: (L-R) Versha Sharma, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Richa Moorjani, and Poorna Jagannathan speak during the Never Have I Ever Season 4 NYC Tastemaker Reception on June 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Jason Mendez/Getty Images for Netflix)

Over the course of its run, Never Have I Ever chronicled the journey of Devi Vishwakumar, brilliantly portrayed by Ramakrishnan, as she navigated the challenging landscape of high school while grappling with her Indian-American identity. From the awkward teenage mishaps to the complexities of family relationships, the show beautifully encapsulated the joys and trials of adolescence.

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Throughout the seasons, the characters underwent remarkable growth, demonstrating the show’s commitment to character development. Devi, initially known for her impulsive and sometimes reckless nature, evolved into a more introspective and empathetic young woman. Her experiences taught her valuable lessons about the importance of female friendship, self-acceptance, and the power of forgiveness.

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A show that is so close to the hearts of so many deserves endless celebration, and that was definetly in the air last night at New York City’s Baar Baar, where Netflix and Teen Vogue partnered up to create an unforgettable night in honor of the show. The Never Have I Ever “Had An Inspiration Like You” tastemaker reception was an evening of celebrating the brilliance of South Asian culture. Baar Baar, renowned for its contemporary Indian cuisine, is a gorgeous atmosphere, especially last night. They served light bites specifically crafted for the occasion, complemented by a delightful selection of themed-mocktails and cocktails.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 06: Maitreyi Ramakrishnan attends the Never Have I Ever Season 4 NYC Tastemaker Reception on June 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Jason Mendez/Getty Images for Netflix)

Baar Baar curated a special menu that takes inspiration from the cast, shining a spotlight on the richness of South Asian culture. Each dish has been carefully crafted with genuine flavors and artistic flair, creating an immersive experience that takes guests on a journey to the very essence of these vibrant traditions.

Teen Vogue’s Versha Sharma started the evening with a few words, stating “For four seasons, they have portrayed a multi-generational South Asian family in a way that is both highly specific and highly relatable… Now, two years later, they’ve had this incredible run, with each season just making it more popular, and we have this incredible room full of people who are at the top of their fields, or just starting out, and we’re all supporting each other.” She also spoke about her achievement as the first South Asian editor in chief of Teen Vogue, her excitement for Maitreyi to be featured as the first cover star under her remit in 2021, and shared her appreciation for the South Asian changemakers in attendance who paved the way and served as inspirations to her and others in the room.

Maitreyi said, “It is really important to show up and look out for one another… By coming here, by showing people that there is a community. I can’t stress this enough. You have to show up for your community, that’s the only way we’re going to get progress in any industry.”

Richa said, “This is just so beautiful. The community that has come together and the community that we have been able to meet all of you. Words can’t describe how grateful I am.”

Poorna said, “We have been in gated rooms together, we’ve been rejected our entire career, and we have to have been the ones trying to keep that flame alive for us and for each other for so long. We are suddenly being celebrated, made visible, and recognized. When we’re together I realize how much power this community has.”

June 8, 2023 0 comment
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EntertainmentEvents

Reel Works Annual 2023 ChangeMakers Gala at Ziegfeld Ballroom, Manhattan New York

by Danielle Niecey May 28, 2023
written by Danielle Niecey

May 24th, 2023, Manhattan, New York. Ziegfeld Ballroom. — Reel Works, a non-profit organization founded in 2001 by Producers John Williams and Stephanie Walter, hosted their Annual ChangeMakers Gala, honoring Val Boreland, EVP of Content Acquisitions for NBC Universal Television and Streaming; and Producer, Director and world-renown Actress, Nia Long. Reel Works serves over 1,600 NYC youth annually from middle school through high school and beyond. The services offered through Reel Works aims to develop the hope filled youths as industry professionals, artists and citizens, all while helping them to excel in academics, preparing them for graduation, encouraging them to pursue higher educational goals, while aligning their professional development to launch careers in media, film and related industry sectors. To date, Reel Works is the only filmmaking program that matches teens 1:1 with professional filmmaker-mentors that show them how to tell their stories and have their voices heard.

The event was held at Ziegfeld Ballroom in Manhattan, New York City. The evening began with various hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and the bar signature beverage, “The Sparkler”, made with Espolon Tequila, mango puree, fresh lime juice, topped with Pra Della Luna Prosecco and garnished with a lime twist. While the guest in attendance awaited the ceremony that would soon highlight the work of both the organization and student film award nominees,  media outlets in attendance engaged in Red Carpet interviews with the Reel Work staff members and notable guests that included Yolonda Ross, Krystal Joy Brown, founders John Williams, Stephanie Walters, Wu-Tang Member, Ghostface Killah, Sheryl Underwood, Nelson George, Maya Cade, Sade Baderinwa, Dometi Pongo and more.

As the curtains to the ceremonial hall opened, guests poured into a room of 40 fully dressed tables, plated appetizers of fresh garden salad, sparkling water and choices of red or white wine served by the ballroom waitstaff.  The show began with a 3 minute video presentation highlighting the success stories of the graduates and current students. The reel showcased clips of their projects as they shared their first hand experience with Reel Works. The students and alumni mentioned how much they have expanded as creatives, grown in their love of Cinematography and how the art form has improved their problem-solving skills. They’ve learned that they can teach empathy through film and perspective and how much their approach to the professional world in film has advanced due in part to their time with Reel Works. The most moving aspect of this presentation was their appreciation for their mentors who showed them how to navigate the field of film and media. The Reel Work students expressed their gratitude for the preparation they have been given by their mentors, and how to avoid the early career mishaps and mistakes. They expressed that this hands-on approach to their development helped them to step confidently into their craft. 

Shortly after, the Master of Ceremony, SNL’s very own Ego Nwodim,  took to the stage and shared her warm yet comical story of her uncomfortable journey to establishing her career as an Actress, Comedian, and Writer under the guise of a “medical student” in fear of her strict Nigerian parents not approving of her passion to act. The hostess celebrated the Reel Work students for their ability to trust their inner voice and for their courage to pursue their passions in the media and filmmaking industries. The 2023 Reel Works ChangeMaker film student award nominees were showcased, along with clips of their projects submission as they anticipated the announcement of the winning film student.

An overjoyed Val Boreland, EVP of Content Acquisitions for NBC Universal Television and Streaming was the first to receive a ChangeMakers award and shared gems of wisdom to the attending student body, “Take advantage of every opportunity you can, because you’ll never know when you’ll get them again.” She stressed that Reel Works and programs like it were vital because the opportunities they present for students to shoot, create documentaries and develop interviewing skills are invaluable experiences, some of which she wished she could ‘go back in time’ to have for herself. When asked “What does it mean to be a ChangeMaker? ” The Executive was brought to tears, “To think that you can change people’s lives [by choosing the stories they see that represent the people that watch them]…and to think that my son will be proud of me one day,” overwhelmed with joy, she finishes with “…that’s what it means to me.” She thanked the NBC Universal team for supporting her, her assistant Morgan Spann all while giving a tribute to the late Tina Turner in gratitude to her colleagues. “A large part of my job is changing people’s attitudes,” Val states in the body of her speech, “and depending on the room, that is sometimes a difficult task; but as my coworkers know, I rarely surrender”. Spoken as a true leader and change influencer.

The show merged into an auction where the guest in attendance raised thousands for the organization to continue garnering resources for the underserved New York City youth, and the organization’s expansion outside of New York City.

Nia Long, the second ChangeMaker honored by Reel Works, engaged in a fireside chat moderated by Ego Nwodim. In the acceptance of her award and during her one on one conversation with Ego, Nia shares that the face of the industry has changed but that it still has very far to go as it pertains to representation. She shared that her pursuit of her career in the Arts was an act of survival, and that she always prayed for grace along the way. She told the students of Reel Works “Young people, take up space. Don’t apologize. Take up space. Spread your wings because when I began [in the industry as an actress], there were not a lot of opportunities for us….and when I see how much this industry has grown, I am grateful. But there is still much more work to be done because we need more representation.” 

Nia continued on to reaffirm her resilience and place as a ChangeMaker, “…and one of the reason why I almost demand a Producer’s credit is because number one, I know what I’m doing and that is not coming from a place of ego, that’s coming from a place of knowing that I am so sure of what I am doing, and [

also knowing] I am still a student. We have to take up space, we have to take it up a couple of notches because I am relentless. Two, I demand these credits so that the set can represent the subway system (as quoted earlier by Film Director and New York City Deputy Film Commissioner, Kwame Amoaku). You have to know the experience to tell the story. Someone that looks like me will tell my story without me having to explain myself. I don’t want to have to keep explaining myself. I want to just ‘be’ and inspire and continue to grow.”

The student nominee award winner, Violet Gallo, received the John F. Outcalt award for Outstanding Filmmaking and expressed her gratitude for the confidence the program has given her and the ability for her to give comfort to others that relate to her story. The event closed with an after party in the ballroom with music played by twin DJs, desserts and more wine. Guests were encouraged to continue to support the organization which offers additional branches such as MediaMkers a workforce development program that partners with industry leaders, educators, and government agencies to create pathways from classrooms to careers for talented early-career professionals to build a media workforce that looks like NYC. Outside of New York City, Reel Works has expanded to partner with various local I.A.T.S.E. unions across the country to help introduce hands-on training and credentialing programs to students of all ages nationwide. For more information visit https://www.reelworks.org/. 

 

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