Big budgets and blockbuster Hollywood movies have always garnered the attention of a global audience. I believe independent films are where authentic and deep storytelling resides. Rather, it’s a heartfelt drama or a gut-wrenching comedy; I believe Independent writers and directors truly focus on the story and aesthetics of films rather than the special effects and lack of narrative that many industry films possess today. Here is my top five Indie films list making waves on the market. I hope you find time to enjoy these great works.
Really Love is a deep romantic drama film about an upcoming African American painting artist who strives to find his big break in the art world, while at the same time balancing his life with a newfound romantic relationship, as well as the constant dissatisfaction of his family who wants him to get a regular 9 to 5 job instead of wasting his time on his craft. This story is set in Washington D.C. and focuses on the struggles and the obstacles of trying to reach success. The film is directed by Angel Kristi Williams and co-written by Felicia Pride. The film stars Kofi Siriboe, Jade Eshete, Uzo Aduba, and Michael Ealy. This film is available now to watch and stream on Netflix.
This is one of the funniest comedic films to come out of St. Louis. Written and directed by Y.C. Bey starring YC- Bey, Tonerio Brown, Eric Rivers, Lacey “G Souldier” Turner, Stacey White and A’ashia Jackson. The movie centers around a boastful and flashing man whose wife is kidnapped by goons for ransom. Despite his flashy character, he lacks the money to pay the ransom so he enlists the help of his two best friends to help save her while going on a hilarious journey throughout the mission. Hella Drove The Movie premiered at The St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase this past July winning The Spirit of St. Louis Award.
Mavis Staples & Mahalia Jackson Sly Stone B. B. King The Fifth Dimension Gladys Knight & The Pips Nina Simone Stevie Wonder
Summer of Soul is a highly acclaimed documentary about the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival. This festival was large in attendance and held over a six-week period. Well renowned entertainers from around the world performed at the Festival such as Mahalia Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Gladys Knight and the Pips, The Chambers Brothers, Sly and The Family Stone, B.B. King, and many others. Even though the festival was one of the biggest ever alongside Woodstock, it is deeply unknown in the historical culture of music. Directed by Amir “Questlove” Thompson, this film can be watched on the streaming platform Hulu.
Un-Resolved Is a film written and directed by Bruce Carlton Cunningham Jr. The film stars Bruce Carlton Cunningham Jr., Elizabeth McCormick, and Tonette Latosha Holmes. The film is about a newly released convict attempting to make up the lost time with his youngest dying daughter and reconnect with his oldest daughter, who has befriended a deadly enemy from his past. I strongly believe this film will touch the masses and keep you on the edge of your seat especially with the storyline and talented cast.
The Milkmaid is a tragic and romantic political tale about two sisters being abducted from their village in a deadly attack while going through traumatic experiences fighting for their lives, sanity and freedom. The film is directed by Desmond Ovbiagele. This Nigerian film has won multiple awards and stars Anthonieta Kalunta, Gambo Usman Kona and Maryam Booth. This film is daunting and creates dialogue about issues happening in foreign countries.
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