The Brown-Forman is partnering with Codeblack Entertainment and TV One in offering participating filmmakers the chance to win $10,000 and a VIP trip to Miami Beach to screen their short film for an exclusive audience, alongside writer, producer and award-winning actor, Omari Hardwick.
“Real to Reel is a rare opportunity for new filmmakers to screen their work for industry insiders,” said Omari Hardwick. “As a writer and actor who owns a production company, I am personally excited to collaborate with Gentleman Jack on such necessary recognition of Black talent behind the camera.”
The short film entries submitted online for the national competition will be judged by a panel of industry experts, and will be based on the following criteria: screenwriting, production quality and entertainment value. Real to Reel will also feature a seven-city tour, with local film screening events to showcase the works of additional aspiring African American filmmakers. The local events will feature a panel discussion around the selected films, and attendees will also have an opportunity to vote for their favorite short film, with the winner recognized at the final local screening event.