Based on the novel by the same name by Larry Duplechan, the film ‘Blackbird’ is directed by Patrik-Ian Polk (Noah’s Arc, The Skinny), which he also co-wrote with Rikki Beadle Blair (Stonewall). The film stars Academy Award winning actress and comedian Mo’Nique (Precious), Isaiah Washington (Grey’s Anatomy, Blue Caprice, The 100), Terrell Tilford (Single Ladies, Guiding Light), D. Woods (MTV’s Danity Kane), Gary L. Gray (The Cosby Show, Bring It On: All Or Nothing), Torrey Laamar, Kevin Allesee, Nikki Jane, and introduces breakthrough talent Julian Walker…

BLACKBIRD tells the story of seventeen-year-old Randy (Julian Walker), a devout Christian who tries very hard to be a good person. Since his father (Isaiah Washington) left, Randy takes care of his emotionally disturbed mother (Mo’Nique), sings lead in the church choir and is the kind of friend all of his classmates can depend on. As strong as he seems on the outside, Randy is hiding a secret inner struggle – a denial of his true self. It is not until he opens himself up to love that he discovers that becoming a man means accepting who you really are.

See the trailer below:

“I am truly proud to bring this amazing film to the big screen.  “BLACKBIRD is about a young man in Mississippi coming to terms with his sexuality. It’s an incredibly inspiring story that beautifully tells the journey of life, love, family and finding one’s truth through a myriad of personal triumphs, strength and acceptance. After first reading the script, I knew this was a story that we had to tell. It’s a story that will resonate profoundly in the hearts of many, and a story that I knew, if told correctly would create a movement and bring about change to the lives of so many people, especially within the African American and LGBT communities.” – Oscar-winning actress Mo’Nique, executive producer

The film is executive produced by Sidney Hicks and Mo’Nique Hicks and produced by Keith Brown, Patrik-Ian Polk, Carol Ann Shine and Isaiah Washington.  The deal was negotiated by Mark Ward on behalf of RLJ Entertainment and attorneys Ricky Anderson and Nathan Hale Williams on behalf of the filmmakers.

Premiere Date:  April 24, 2015

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