NOLA: The Beginning
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama, History
Through the story of a Black mother fighting to protect herself and her child, this film will powerfully explore the humanity of the Black woman. Aiming to transform the viewer with a new outlook on the Black female presence and experience in America.
NOLA: The Beginning
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama, History
1 Campaigns | California, United States
194 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
$19,524
Goal: $33,000 for production
Through the story of a Black mother fighting to protect herself and her child, this film will powerfully explore the humanity of the Black woman. Aiming to transform the viewer with a new outlook on the Black female presence and experience in America.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
NOLA: The Beginning is a visually striking and emotionally charged short film blending tragedy, generational trauma, supernatural elements and resilience to immerse viewers into the gripping experience of Black motherhood across centuries. Through the ferocious and visceral determination of Nola’s fight and love, we capture the urgency of a Black mother's need to always stand on guard for the protection of her child or her children, as our safety is always under threat.
NOLA: The Beginning was inspired by THE FIELD OF ANGELS memorial at the Whitney Plantation in New Orleans; specifically Rod Moorhead’s Coming Home—a bronze statue of a Black angel carrying a child to heaven, honoring the 2,200 enslaved children who died there. This imagery led me to reimagine the angel’s power—not just as a deliverer of souls, but as a force navigating sacrifice and survival.
"In a world of countless lives and endless injustice, how does one determine whose life is worth saving?
Through this project, we aim to spark critical conversations about what it truly means to be a woman of color navigating the world, inspiring audiences to confront biases and take action.
ART IS REVOLUTION
What we have always needed and wanted...
OUR OWN NARRATIVES fueled by our OWN PERSONAL PERSPECTIVES.
We seek to tell an authentic story of Black female life in America weaving between the present and the past, amplifying a voice that continues to fight to be heard; whether through the want and desire for basic human rights, the unjust and unnecessary loss of a child or for adequate healthcare.
As the playwright, Zola Dee, emphatically and repetitiously states in her powerful and heart-wrenching play "American Saga - Gunshot Medley: Part 1...
"EVERYBODY IS SOMEBODY'S CHILD."
Bringing the same powerful and visceral storytelling that made The Three Phases of Isa an award-winning project—garnering Official Selections at numerous film festivals—NOLA: The Beginning expands our artistic practice, pushing both our visual and narrative techniques by merging the supernatural with social critique. This film is an opportunity to elevate our work, further connecting us to broader audiences.
At its core, my work is about activation. I strive to move audiences beyond passive viewing, inspiring them to challenge deeply held misconceptions, dismantle harmful stereotypes, and step into the work of justice. I hope to foster a deeper appreciation for our shared history and collective contributions to this country—uniting us in the pursuit of love, liberation and lasting change.
NOLA: The Beginning combines the haunting supernatural elements of Beast of the Southern Wild and the exploration of maternal determination found in Beloved all while creating a new iteration of folklore and history converging to reveal deep emotional truths as executed in Eve’s Bayou.
The film’s visual and auditory choices will intensify its themes. Oppressive moments will be captured in stark black and white, shifting into color when hope emerges - reinforcing the contrast between despair and resilience.
Silence versus sound will be used strategically to convey and underscore the struggle central to the story of Black women fighting to be seen and heard in a world that can undermine our very existence. And we’ll use special visual effects to represent and to enhance the triplexity of the Field Angel; a figure that is other-worldly and monumental, but also human in ways, a guiding entity holding the power to protect Black life.
Beyond the screen, we will launch an Impact Campaign to unite BLACK WOMEN, FAMILIES, and ADVOCATES in communal viewings, using a discussion + action guide to spark critical conversations. The campaign will focus on maternal and mental health, faith, identity, culture, and racial equity.
Diverse audiences will be engaged—Black Women and Girls, Mothers, Health Equity Leaders, Activists, Educators, Faith Leaders, and Black Men—through targeted outreach, research, and partnerships. By fostering dialogue and community action, the project seeks to drive awareness, healing, and meaningful engagement around the issues Black women and girls face.
Today, we invite you to make a difference in the
AMPLIFYING of Black Female voices!
NOLA: The Beginning is the start of our call to action! Representing an ambitous and monumental work - an opportunity to challenge dominant narratives and recenter the misconception of a Black woman's lived experience.
We seek to remove stereotypes and stigmas that mainstream media may deem as “real” when it comes to our lives and bring forth what is true about us, lifting our own humanity.
“True art is an engine for social change. And true artists are activists. They see what ought to be by the reflection of what is, and endeavor to remove the contradiction.”
- Frederick Douglass
Our goal is to raise $33,000, with at least 80% needed to get funded. These funds will provide the essential foundation to make this film a reality—covering cast and crew wages, food, equipment, production design, location fees, permits, and insurance. This is the financial footing we need to bring NOLA: The Beginning to life.
But we’re not just aiming to make a film—we’re building a powerful, high-quality cinematic experience. Meeting our goal allows us to fairly compensate our team and produce something impactful. And if we exceed it? We unlock STRETCH GOALS to take NOLA: The Beginning to the next level.
How Your Contribution Will Make an Impact
- $33,000 – The Foundation (Base Goal)
- Covers all essential production costs: cast, crew, equipment, food, insurance, props, and location expenses.
- $38,000 – The Enhancement (Stretch Goal #1)
- Allows us to hire additional crew, add higher quality lighting equipment and expand the production design budget.
- $44,000 – The Full Vision (Ultimate Stretch Goal)
- Funds all our post-production needs (editing, sound mixing, music composition, color grading, and VFX) and supports marketing & distribution, ensuring NOLA: The Beginning reaches audiences far and wide.
By reaching $44,000, we will have everything we need to create a visually stunning, emotionally powerful film that will leave a lasting impact with all who get the opportunity to see it!
We are also excited to share that NOLA: The Beginning will be fiscally sponsored by
BLACK FILM SPACE.
A non profit 501 (c) 3 organization dedicated to enhancing the careers of Black filmmakers through skill enhancing and community building programming. This means that any level of contribution you make to the campaign will be TAX-DEDUCTIBLE!
You're a ROCK STAR! You know that, right?!
Your generous contribution gives narratives written, directed and performed by Black women the audacity to stand CONFIDENT, BOLD and ASSURED in who we are, where we came from and what we have to offer to the world as Creators. Forever illuminating new perspectives on our experiences from our own voices.
Thank you for taking the time to read the introduction to our project, for your belief in it's necessity and for taking the leap to join our filmmaking community. We know this film's importance and impact will reach far beyond the silver screen and YOUR contribution will have been a huge part in making that happen.
We also understand if you're unable to contribute financially at this time.
Below are some awesome ways you can support the campaign for free:
FOLLOW US ON SEED & SPARK
With 250 followers on the Seed & Spark platform,
we gain access to Filmmaker Perks that will assist with the film's production
SPREAD THE NEWS! SHARE! SHARE! SHARE! AND SHARE SOME MORE!
Use the tag #NOLATheFilm
Follow, Share & Repost from our Facebook, Twitter & Instagram Pages:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/NolaTheFilm/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/nolathefilm/
NEED HELP WITH SHARING?
Simply post the below message to your social media pages:
"Excited to see the Supernatural Drama short film NOLA: The Beginning written by @mlangford723 &
co-produced by a stellar team of female producers; @julesbruff, @salena_h_p, @lysa_myles, @writeongirl, @tiffany.oglesby &
Impact Producer @jessicaestellehuggins
Contribute here! seedandspark.com/fund/nola-the-beginning #NOLATheFilm
WITH YOUR SUPPORT
Black female voices continue to have a space in which to
RISE, RISE, RISE AND RISE SOME MORE!!
LET'S GO!!!!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Cast & Crew
Costs $23,623
Our talented cast and hard working crew need to be paid their appropriate wages.
Camera & Lighting Equipment + Insurance
Costs $5,200
We want this film to look top-notch + sound amazing. We will need the best equipment possible to make that happen!
Location + Production Design
Costs $1,992
Our film will take place in 2 locations; a modern day 2 bdrm apartment + a ranch/open field area that can replicate a plantation.
Craft Services
Costs $2,185
We will be feeding a team of 23 people over a 3-day shoot. Please also contact us if you have your own local catering service.
Share this update!
About This Team
MILDRED MARIE LANGFORD is a LA-based Actor, Writer, Producer and CEO & Founder of LITTLE BLACK PEARL PRODUCTIONS. A new faith-based, social justice focused independent production company founded to highlight strong female-driven, transformative narratives by women of color in front of and behind the lens.
Her television and independent film credits include WILL TRENT, GREY'S ANATOMY, Amazon Original Series BOSCH, OWN Original Series DELILAH, CHICAGO MED, MASTERS OF SEX, MAGIC FUNHOUSE, BOSS, COTTON CANDY BUBBLE GUM, UPLOAD, THE GOOD SIDE OF BAD, GROW UP, ANALYSIS PARALYSIS, MARKET VALUE, YOUR BEAUTIFUL BABY, CONCRETE ROSE and EGG DAY. She wrote, produced and led THE THREE PHASES OF ISA, the story of a young woman who, trapped in an abusive marriage, confronts her younger versions to gain freedom and JUSTICE FOR EZRA, inspired by the senseless shooting of Ahmaud Arbery.
Mildred is also the co-creator/co-writer/co-executive producer of the new pilot GRIEF IS NORMAL, co-creator/co-writer/co-executive producer of the six-episode dramedy series COMMUNE and co-producer/co-writer of the new series TICKER. As well as co-founding member of The Black Creators Collective, a non-profit arts organization dedicated to bringing artistic resources and knowledge to low-resourced communities in the South Los Angeles area, while also creating and developing opportunities for other artists of color.
ANDI CHAPMAN is a Director, Actor and Educator. She also serves as the Associate Artistic Director of the Ebony Repertory Theatre in Los Angeles, CA. Notable Theatre directing credits include the recent and highly successful runs of MACBETH and THE BLUEST EYE at A Noise Within; SHE, THE ABUELAS and the critically acclaimed NATIVE SON at Antaeus & Kirk Douglas Theatres (nominated for Best Director by Stage Raw & Broadway World); Ebony Repertory Theatre's GOSPEL AT COLONUS (14 Ovation nominations including Best Play & Best Play Direction/Best Production at NAACP 2016 Theatre Awards); The Actor's Co-op's STEEL MAGNOLIAS (Best Director Award) and a host of many more. She has also worked as an Assistant Director at Center Theatre Group with Phylicia Rashad on JOE TURNER'S COME & GONE and A RAISIN IN THE SUN (Ovation Award for Best Play). She directed the short films THE THREE PHASES OF ISA, written, produced and led by Mildred Marie Langford, and the award-winning MEMORIAL STREET, ELIJAH'S SONG and WHY?
Andi's approach to directing for the screen isn't solely the product of her professional theatre work and the valuable education and experience she was afforded by AFI. Her insights, sensibilities and talents are also formed by two decades as a professional actor. Her acting credits include 911, THE ORVILLE, HOW TO GET AWAY WITH MURDER, CRIMINAL MINDS, NCIS, SMILF, SHAMELESS, DEXTER, 24, SIX FEET UNDER, SHORT CUTS, THE LOWER DEPTHS and THE BLOOD WEDDING.
JULES BRUFF is an actor and filmmaker. Her second feature as writer/producer/actor, GOOD SIDE OF BAD, starring Golden Globe winner Tess Harper and Emmy winner Kim Estes, just won the Audience Award for Best Feature at the Festival of Cinema NYC. She wrote, produced, and starred in the indie hit feature PART TIME FABULOUS. Jules won Best Actress Awards at the Monaco Film Festival and the Los Angeles Feel Good Film Festival for her star turn in the movie. She acted with Mindy Sterling in the award-winning film festival comedy For MURIEL. She played the Zodiac killer's sister-in-law in David Fincher's classic film ZODIAC. You can see Jules in T.V. shows such as S.W.A.T., LUCIFER, W.A.C.O., and over 70 national commercials.
SALENA HUTCHERSON has a financial background that spans over 20 years and an Entertainment career that is constantly building and expanding. Before devoting her work fulltime to TV/Film, she served as Assistant Vice President in Premiere Banking at Bank of America where she managed over $100 million in wealth. Always looking to broaden her skills, Salena expanded into TV/Film supplying her with a level of expertise which fueled her passion for the arts. While working in the casting department on countless projects, she was afforded a path to a foundation in production with a hand on talent from music to the screen.
From elite client portfolios to multimillion dollar businesses, Salena merged her passion for TV/Film along with her financial background to not only oversee the financial health of small entertainment companies, but also co-founded and operated a $20 million luxury movie theater in Las Vegas NV called Eclipse Theaters.
LYSA MYLES was born in Bronx, NY and raised in the greater New York/New Jersey area. Her relationship with God, and her spirituality stand at the forefront of howshe lives. Her passion for acting began at an early age and has served as the creative cornerstone of her life. Lysa also brings experience as a co-founder and co-producer with Collaborative Artist Bloc Productions. Whose collaboration with Rogue Machine Theatre produced the very successful (Ovation Recommended & Stage Raw nominated) stage play AMERICAN SAGA: GUNSHOT MEDLEY - PART 1 by Dionna M. Daniel (a.k.a. Zola Dee). Other producer credits include the short film T. ALEXANDER by T'Ana Phelice.
KIMBERLY ALLEN, Staff Writer on KOLD X WINDY, the new television drama series that launched in January 2023 on WeTV and streams on ALLBLK, is a native of Detroit, Michigan and has passionately pursued screenwriting since moving to Los Angeles.
Through the encouragement and support from the Organization of Black Screenwriters. Kim directed and produced her first short film that she co-wrote with director/producer Zelie Dember-Slack - a political comedy titled THE AVERAGE AMERICAN, which screened at film festivals internationally and aired on television in over one hundred markets nationwide through the online platform African American Short Films. She has also worked on other various independent films including POETRI N' MOTION, THE BORED ROOM, THE VOTE, THE SWEETEST HEIR, UNDER THE SUN, TRUCK, DARK CHOCOLATE, THE THREE PHASES OF ISA and TICKER, expanding her experience as a filmmaker.
In addition to writing and production, Kimberly enjoys standup comedy, which is inherently an extension of her jubilant nature. She often demonstrates compassion and a willingness to make a difference where there's a need. She taught hearing-impaired children for five years at the Detroit Day School for the Deaf. She ran her first half marathon at Disneyland to raise awareness to fight Leukemia and Lymphoma. She also continues to proudly serve at the Motion Picture and Television Fund, where their mission is to care for seniors who have devoted most of their lives to the field of film and television.
TIFFANY OGLESBY (Actor, Writer, Producer, and Director) is originally from Atlanta, GA., with artistic ties in Chicago, IL., and now residing in Los Angeles, CA. Recent Theatre Credits: CONFEDERATES (Rep Theatre of St. Louis), BYHALIA, MISSISSIPPI (B Street Theatre), FLYIN’ WEST (American Blues Theatre), THE LIGHT (Original Cast - Black Theatre Alliance Award for Best Actress - New Colony Theatre), SIGNIFICANT OTHER (Theater Wit), and AN OCTOROON (Definition Theatre Company). TV Credits: Tyler Perry’s RUTHLESS (BET+), THE NEIGHBORHOOD (CBS), THE CHI (SHOWTIME), CHICAGO MED (NBC), and EMPIRE (FOX). Upcoming Film: PAW PAW and DAYJA (Directed by Greg Alan Williams). Education: BFA in Performing Arts (Savannah College of Art and Design), MFA in Acting (The Theatre School at DePaul University). She’s also a Teaching Artist at Geffen Playhouse and a proud member of The Black Creators Collective.
JESSICA ESTELLE HUGGINS is a Boston native and an Emmy-nominated Filmmaker. Various films that she has produced have been accepted into dozens of film festivals around the country and have received awards. Titles include the Emmy-nominated short documentary, THE MURAL MASTER, THE DANCING DIPLOMAT, MEMOIRS OF A BLACK GIRL, BLACK WOMEN SHINE (podcast), CHI~VOICES: A Poetic Film Series, PERFECT DAY and more. Huggins has served as a production, distribution and impact strategist for many documentary organizations including Brave New Films, ITVS, Documentary Educational Resources, The Redford Center, Picture Motion and Another Age Productions. Huggins currently works as the Director of Activation & Community Engagement at Embrace Boston. She also serves as Director of Membership for The Secret Society of Black Creatives. Huggins continues to develop multifaceted characters while honing in on stories about Black Americans in her personal film work.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
NOLA: The Beginning is a visually striking and emotionally charged short film blending tragedy, generational trauma, supernatural elements and resilience to immerse viewers into the gripping experience of Black motherhood across centuries. Through the ferocious and visceral determination of Nola’s fight and love, we capture the urgency of a Black mother's need to always stand on guard for the protection of her child or her children, as our safety is always under threat.
NOLA: The Beginning was inspired by THE FIELD OF ANGELS memorial at the Whitney Plantation in New Orleans; specifically Rod Moorhead’s Coming Home—a bronze statue of a Black angel carrying a child to heaven, honoring the 2,200 enslaved children who died there. This imagery led me to reimagine the angel’s power—not just as a deliverer of souls, but as a force navigating sacrifice and survival.
"In a world of countless lives and endless injustice, how does one determine whose life is worth saving?
Through this project, we aim to spark critical conversations about what it truly means to be a woman of color navigating the world, inspiring audiences to confront biases and take action.
ART IS REVOLUTION
What we have always needed and wanted...
OUR OWN NARRATIVES fueled by our OWN PERSONAL PERSPECTIVES.
We seek to tell an authentic story of Black female life in America weaving between the present and the past, amplifying a voice that continues to fight to be heard; whether through the want and desire for basic human rights, the unjust and unnecessary loss of a child or for adequate healthcare.
As the playwright, Zola Dee, emphatically and repetitiously states in her powerful and heart-wrenching play "American Saga - Gunshot Medley: Part 1...
"EVERYBODY IS SOMEBODY'S CHILD."
Bringing the same powerful and visceral storytelling that made The Three Phases of Isa an award-winning project—garnering Official Selections at numerous film festivals—NOLA: The Beginning expands our artistic practice, pushing both our visual and narrative techniques by merging the supernatural with social critique. This film is an opportunity to elevate our work, further connecting us to broader audiences.
At its core, my work is about activation. I strive to move audiences beyond passive viewing, inspiring them to challenge deeply held misconceptions, dismantle harmful stereotypes, and step into the work of justice. I hope to foster a deeper appreciation for our shared history and collective contributions to this country—uniting us in the pursuit of love, liberation and lasting change.
NOLA: The Beginning combines the haunting supernatural elements of Beast of the Southern Wild and the exploration of maternal determination found in Beloved all while creating a new iteration of folklore and history converging to reveal deep emotional truths as executed in Eve’s Bayou.
The film’s visual and auditory choices will intensify its themes. Oppressive moments will be captured in stark black and white, shifting into color when hope emerges - reinforcing the contrast between despair and resilience.
Silence versus sound will be used strategically to convey and underscore the struggle central to the story of Black women fighting to be seen and heard in a world that can undermine our very existence. And we’ll use special visual effects to represent and to enhance the triplexity of the Field Angel; a figure that is other-worldly and monumental, but also human in ways, a guiding entity holding the power to protect Black life.
Beyond the screen, we will launch an Impact Campaign to unite BLACK WOMEN, FAMILIES, and ADVOCATES in communal viewings, using a discussion + action guide to spark critical conversations. The campaign will focus on maternal and mental health, faith, identity, culture, and racial equity.
Diverse audiences will be engaged—Black Women and Girls, Mothers, Health Equity Leaders, Activists, Educators, Faith Leaders, and Black Men—through targeted outreach, research, and partnerships. By fostering dialogue and community action, the project seeks to drive awareness, healing, and meaningful engagement around the issues Black women and girls face.
Today, we invite you to make a difference in the
AMPLIFYING of Black Female voices!
NOLA: The Beginning is the start of our call to action! Representing an ambitous and monumental work - an opportunity to challenge dominant narratives and recenter the misconception of a Black woman's lived experience.
We seek to remove stereotypes and stigmas that mainstream media may deem as “real” when it comes to our lives and bring forth what is true about us, lifting our own humanity.
“True art is an engine for social change. And true artists are activists. They see what ought to be by the reflection of what is, and endeavor to remove the contradiction.”
- Frederick Douglass
Our goal is to raise $33,000, with at least 80% needed to get funded. These funds will provide the essential foundation to make this film a reality—covering cast and crew wages, food, equipment, production design, location fees, permits, and insurance. This is the financial footing we need to bring NOLA: The Beginning to life.
But we’re not just aiming to make a film—we’re building a powerful, high-quality cinematic experience. Meeting our goal allows us to fairly compensate our team and produce something impactful. And if we exceed it? We unlock STRETCH GOALS to take NOLA: The Beginning to the next level.
How Your Contribution Will Make an Impact
- $33,000 – The Foundation (Base Goal)
- Covers all essential production costs: cast, crew, equipment, food, insurance, props, and location expenses.
- $38,000 – The Enhancement (Stretch Goal #1)
- Allows us to hire additional crew, add higher quality lighting equipment and expand the production design budget.
- $44,000 – The Full Vision (Ultimate Stretch Goal)
- Funds all our post-production needs (editing, sound mixing, music composition, color grading, and VFX) and supports marketing & distribution, ensuring NOLA: The Beginning reaches audiences far and wide.
By reaching $44,000, we will have everything we need to create a visually stunning, emotionally powerful film that will leave a lasting impact with all who get the opportunity to see it!
We are also excited to share that NOLA: The Beginning will be fiscally sponsored by
BLACK FILM SPACE.
A non profit 501 (c) 3 organization dedicated to enhancing the careers of Black filmmakers through skill enhancing and community building programming. This means that any level of contribution you make to the campaign will be TAX-DEDUCTIBLE!
You're a ROCK STAR! You know that, right?!
Your generous contribution gives narratives written, directed and performed by Black women the audacity to stand CONFIDENT, BOLD and ASSURED in who we are, where we came from and what we have to offer to the world as Creators. Forever illuminating new perspectives on our experiences from our own voices.
Thank you for taking the time to read the introduction to our project, for your belief in it's necessity and for taking the leap to join our filmmaking community. We know this film's importance and impact will reach far beyond the silver screen and YOUR contribution will have been a huge part in making that happen.
We also understand if you're unable to contribute financially at this time.
Below are some awesome ways you can support the campaign for free:
FOLLOW US ON SEED & SPARK
With 250 followers on the Seed & Spark platform,
we gain access to Filmmaker Perks that will assist with the film's production
SPREAD THE NEWS! SHARE! SHARE! SHARE! AND SHARE SOME MORE!
Use the tag #NOLATheFilm
Follow, Share & Repost from our Facebook, Twitter & Instagram Pages:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/NolaTheFilm/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/nolathefilm/
NEED HELP WITH SHARING?
Simply post the below message to your social media pages:
"Excited to see the Supernatural Drama short film NOLA: The Beginning written by @mlangford723 &
co-produced by a stellar team of female producers; @julesbruff, @salena_h_p, @lysa_myles, @writeongirl, @tiffany.oglesby &
Impact Producer @jessicaestellehuggins
Contribute here! seedandspark.com/fund/nola-the-beginning #NOLATheFilm
WITH YOUR SUPPORT
Black female voices continue to have a space in which to
RISE, RISE, RISE AND RISE SOME MORE!!
LET'S GO!!!!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Cast & Crew
Costs $23,623
Our talented cast and hard working crew need to be paid their appropriate wages.
Camera & Lighting Equipment + Insurance
Costs $5,200
We want this film to look top-notch + sound amazing. We will need the best equipment possible to make that happen!
Location + Production Design
Costs $1,992
Our film will take place in 2 locations; a modern day 2 bdrm apartment + a ranch/open field area that can replicate a plantation.
Craft Services
Costs $2,185
We will be feeding a team of 23 people over a 3-day shoot. Please also contact us if you have your own local catering service.
Share this update!
About This Team
MILDRED MARIE LANGFORD is a LA-based Actor, Writer, Producer and CEO & Founder of LITTLE BLACK PEARL PRODUCTIONS. A new faith-based, social justice focused independent production company founded to highlight strong female-driven, transformative narratives by women of color in front of and behind the lens.
Her television and independent film credits include WILL TRENT, GREY'S ANATOMY, Amazon Original Series BOSCH, OWN Original Series DELILAH, CHICAGO MED, MASTERS OF SEX, MAGIC FUNHOUSE, BOSS, COTTON CANDY BUBBLE GUM, UPLOAD, THE GOOD SIDE OF BAD, GROW UP, ANALYSIS PARALYSIS, MARKET VALUE, YOUR BEAUTIFUL BABY, CONCRETE ROSE and EGG DAY. She wrote, produced and led THE THREE PHASES OF ISA, the story of a young woman who, trapped in an abusive marriage, confronts her younger versions to gain freedom and JUSTICE FOR EZRA, inspired by the senseless shooting of Ahmaud Arbery.
Mildred is also the co-creator/co-writer/co-executive producer of the new pilot GRIEF IS NORMAL, co-creator/co-writer/co-executive producer of the six-episode dramedy series COMMUNE and co-producer/co-writer of the new series TICKER. As well as co-founding member of The Black Creators Collective, a non-profit arts organization dedicated to bringing artistic resources and knowledge to low-resourced communities in the South Los Angeles area, while also creating and developing opportunities for other artists of color.
ANDI CHAPMAN is a Director, Actor and Educator. She also serves as the Associate Artistic Director of the Ebony Repertory Theatre in Los Angeles, CA. Notable Theatre directing credits include the recent and highly successful runs of MACBETH and THE BLUEST EYE at A Noise Within; SHE, THE ABUELAS and the critically acclaimed NATIVE SON at Antaeus & Kirk Douglas Theatres (nominated for Best Director by Stage Raw & Broadway World); Ebony Repertory Theatre's GOSPEL AT COLONUS (14 Ovation nominations including Best Play & Best Play Direction/Best Production at NAACP 2016 Theatre Awards); The Actor's Co-op's STEEL MAGNOLIAS (Best Director Award) and a host of many more. She has also worked as an Assistant Director at Center Theatre Group with Phylicia Rashad on JOE TURNER'S COME & GONE and A RAISIN IN THE SUN (Ovation Award for Best Play). She directed the short films THE THREE PHASES OF ISA, written, produced and led by Mildred Marie Langford, and the award-winning MEMORIAL STREET, ELIJAH'S SONG and WHY?
Andi's approach to directing for the screen isn't solely the product of her professional theatre work and the valuable education and experience she was afforded by AFI. Her insights, sensibilities and talents are also formed by two decades as a professional actor. Her acting credits include 911, THE ORVILLE, HOW TO GET AWAY WITH MURDER, CRIMINAL MINDS, NCIS, SMILF, SHAMELESS, DEXTER, 24, SIX FEET UNDER, SHORT CUTS, THE LOWER DEPTHS and THE BLOOD WEDDING.
JULES BRUFF is an actor and filmmaker. Her second feature as writer/producer/actor, GOOD SIDE OF BAD, starring Golden Globe winner Tess Harper and Emmy winner Kim Estes, just won the Audience Award for Best Feature at the Festival of Cinema NYC. She wrote, produced, and starred in the indie hit feature PART TIME FABULOUS. Jules won Best Actress Awards at the Monaco Film Festival and the Los Angeles Feel Good Film Festival for her star turn in the movie. She acted with Mindy Sterling in the award-winning film festival comedy For MURIEL. She played the Zodiac killer's sister-in-law in David Fincher's classic film ZODIAC. You can see Jules in T.V. shows such as S.W.A.T., LUCIFER, W.A.C.O., and over 70 national commercials.
SALENA HUTCHERSON has a financial background that spans over 20 years and an Entertainment career that is constantly building and expanding. Before devoting her work fulltime to TV/Film, she served as Assistant Vice President in Premiere Banking at Bank of America where she managed over $100 million in wealth. Always looking to broaden her skills, Salena expanded into TV/Film supplying her with a level of expertise which fueled her passion for the arts. While working in the casting department on countless projects, she was afforded a path to a foundation in production with a hand on talent from music to the screen.
From elite client portfolios to multimillion dollar businesses, Salena merged her passion for TV/Film along with her financial background to not only oversee the financial health of small entertainment companies, but also co-founded and operated a $20 million luxury movie theater in Las Vegas NV called Eclipse Theaters.
LYSA MYLES was born in Bronx, NY and raised in the greater New York/New Jersey area. Her relationship with God, and her spirituality stand at the forefront of howshe lives. Her passion for acting began at an early age and has served as the creative cornerstone of her life. Lysa also brings experience as a co-founder and co-producer with Collaborative Artist Bloc Productions. Whose collaboration with Rogue Machine Theatre produced the very successful (Ovation Recommended & Stage Raw nominated) stage play AMERICAN SAGA: GUNSHOT MEDLEY - PART 1 by Dionna M. Daniel (a.k.a. Zola Dee). Other producer credits include the short film T. ALEXANDER by T'Ana Phelice.
KIMBERLY ALLEN, Staff Writer on KOLD X WINDY, the new television drama series that launched in January 2023 on WeTV and streams on ALLBLK, is a native of Detroit, Michigan and has passionately pursued screenwriting since moving to Los Angeles.
Through the encouragement and support from the Organization of Black Screenwriters. Kim directed and produced her first short film that she co-wrote with director/producer Zelie Dember-Slack - a political comedy titled THE AVERAGE AMERICAN, which screened at film festivals internationally and aired on television in over one hundred markets nationwide through the online platform African American Short Films. She has also worked on other various independent films including POETRI N' MOTION, THE BORED ROOM, THE VOTE, THE SWEETEST HEIR, UNDER THE SUN, TRUCK, DARK CHOCOLATE, THE THREE PHASES OF ISA and TICKER, expanding her experience as a filmmaker.
In addition to writing and production, Kimberly enjoys standup comedy, which is inherently an extension of her jubilant nature. She often demonstrates compassion and a willingness to make a difference where there's a need. She taught hearing-impaired children for five years at the Detroit Day School for the Deaf. She ran her first half marathon at Disneyland to raise awareness to fight Leukemia and Lymphoma. She also continues to proudly serve at the Motion Picture and Television Fund, where their mission is to care for seniors who have devoted most of their lives to the field of film and television.
TIFFANY OGLESBY (Actor, Writer, Producer, and Director) is originally from Atlanta, GA., with artistic ties in Chicago, IL., and now residing in Los Angeles, CA. Recent Theatre Credits: CONFEDERATES (Rep Theatre of St. Louis), BYHALIA, MISSISSIPPI (B Street Theatre), FLYIN’ WEST (American Blues Theatre), THE LIGHT (Original Cast - Black Theatre Alliance Award for Best Actress - New Colony Theatre), SIGNIFICANT OTHER (Theater Wit), and AN OCTOROON (Definition Theatre Company). TV Credits: Tyler Perry’s RUTHLESS (BET+), THE NEIGHBORHOOD (CBS), THE CHI (SHOWTIME), CHICAGO MED (NBC), and EMPIRE (FOX). Upcoming Film: PAW PAW and DAYJA (Directed by Greg Alan Williams). Education: BFA in Performing Arts (Savannah College of Art and Design), MFA in Acting (The Theatre School at DePaul University). She’s also a Teaching Artist at Geffen Playhouse and a proud member of The Black Creators Collective.
JESSICA ESTELLE HUGGINS is a Boston native and an Emmy-nominated Filmmaker. Various films that she has produced have been accepted into dozens of film festivals around the country and have received awards. Titles include the Emmy-nominated short documentary, THE MURAL MASTER, THE DANCING DIPLOMAT, MEMOIRS OF A BLACK GIRL, BLACK WOMEN SHINE (podcast), CHI~VOICES: A Poetic Film Series, PERFECT DAY and more. Huggins has served as a production, distribution and impact strategist for many documentary organizations including Brave New Films, ITVS, Documentary Educational Resources, The Redford Center, Picture Motion and Another Age Productions. Huggins currently works as the Director of Activation & Community Engagement at Embrace Boston. She also serves as Director of Membership for The Secret Society of Black Creatives. Huggins continues to develop multifaceted characters while honing in on stories about Black Americans in her personal film work.