New York, NY – November 29, 2023: The upcoming premiere of ‘Speak Up Brotha!’ directed by Wes Andre Goodrich is set to take place in Manhattan. Scheduled for the Regal Union Square on December 1, 2023, as part of the esteemed Dances With Films: NY event, this film marks a significant moment for Goodrich and the cast.
The movie stars T.C. Carson, acclaimed for his role as Kyle Barker in “Living Single” and nominated for the 2023 NAACP Image Awards. Carson takes the lead in setting the mood for “Speak Up Brotha!,” a film that draws inspiration from the 90s classics like “Love Jones” and “Poetic Justice,” presenting a fresh perspective on Black love.
“Speak Up Brotha!” follows Ahmad, portrayed by Roderick Lawrence, a graduate student navigating life’s complexities while grappling with communication anxiety. His world intersects with poetry, igniting a chance to pursue the woman he loves. The storyline delves into Ahmad’s journey of self-discovery and his leap into the realm of spoken word, raising the question: Will he finally be seen for who he truly is?
The ensemble cast, predominantly Black, features Madeline Grey DeFreece (“Tahara”), Alphonso Walker Jr. (known for Broadway’s “The Skin of Our Teeth” and “Pass Over”), Toni Lachelle Pollitt, Justin Winley (“The Meyerowitz Stories”), and Jaleeca Yancy.
Crafted by Wes Andre Goodrich, the film’s narrative was developed in collaboration with renowned spoken word artist Obbie West and James J. Johnson, the creative minds behind “Silent Partner.” Nona Catusanu takes charge of the cinematography, while the production is led by Salma Qarnain and executive produced by Ike Mbanefo, Cameron Carr, and Obbie West. Notable contributions come from co-producers Patrick Nichols and Emmy Award Winner Dario Harris.
Roderick Lawrence, an esteemed actor and Co-Founder of Black Man Films, boasts an impressive repertoire, including roles in Disney’s “The Lion King” National Tour and the upcoming portrayal of Ike Turner in the Broadway stage play “Tina.” T.C. Carson, a seasoned performer, brings his expertise honed from iconic plays, musicals, and voice acting credits in “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” and the revered “God of War” series.
The Manhattan premiere at Dances With Films: NY promises an evening of cinematic celebration, offering audiences a chance to engage with this heartfelt exploration of Black expression and human connection. Taking place on December 1, 2023, at Regal Union Square, the premiere is anticipated to be an enriching experience for movie enthusiasts.
