There’s a major movie movement going on in the Motor City

By Porsha Monique
Aug 13, 2020
4:07 pm

Many of these auteurs are more than just indie filmmakers: they are entrepreneurs who have created production companies that hire other industry professionals. It takes a team to make a movie. They independently contract actors, caterers, production designers, writers, transportation companies, accountants, make-up artists, and so many other service providers. During these unprecedented times, indie filmmakers are finding new ways for their businesses to survive amidst COVID-19. Husband and wife duo Rockey and Janaya Black have created a full-scale infrastructure for producing movies with their company, Black-Smith Enterprises. Prior to the pandemic, the couple had plans for a red-carpet theatre debut for their latest project “Turn of the Cheek.” Although the threat of the pandemic prevented them from physically being in theatres, their entrepreneurial prowess motivated them to find an alternative way to distribute their film virtually via Vimeo on Demand.

Streaming platforms are growing trends that are helping indie filmmakers to prosper. Detroiters Terrence Parker and brother Joseph McFashion are Co-founders of the Detroit based production company, Mulafilms. These two men have created a profitable model for their films and have shared their strategies to help other filmmakers successfully obtain distribution. Movies to look out for from Mulafilms include 2ELEVEN, Buffed Up, Five O, Plug Love, Birthday Behavior and most recently the McGraw Ave Series. These companies are not only making movies, they’re impacting lives by providing access to an industry that can be difficult to break into.

Other outlets causing indie filmmakers to thrive in the Motor City are film festivals. In support of indie filmmakers, Lazar Favors is the co-director of the Trinity International and Detroit Black Film Festivals held in Detroit. “These festivals add fuel to the talent that’s here and it’s important to nurture the growth and sustainability of our film community,” says Favors. Film festivals are an important avenue for filmmakers to have their work showcased and build an audience for their movies. They create exposure for new and emerging talent via interviews and media exposure. In addition, audiences have been crucial in helping to spread the word after viewing films at festivals. They also can play a key role in connecting filmmakers with notable executives and industry professionals that can lead to greater opportunities for their careers.

We might as well keep the popcorn popping, because these films are only going to continue to find their way into the mainstream. Whether you’re looking for drama, action, romantic comedies, sci-fi or suspense-thrillers there is something out there for everyone. The next time you get ready to purchase a ticket at the box office or scroll a streaming platform for the latest attraction, be sure to check out an indie film made in the D!