Denzel Washington’s New Movie Will SHOCK You!

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Jason Michael Berman, a seasoned producer who once led Mandalay Pictures, believes A/Vantage Pictures’ launch gives him an edge. Throughout his career, he has excelled at finding where creativity intersects with impact. With A/Vantage, he’s making that mission the company’s main focus, beginning with the premiere of “Highest 2 Lowest,” directed by Spike Lee and starring Denzel Washington, at the Cannes Film Festival.

Debuted in April, A/Vantage stands dedicated to creating culturally relevant and financially successful films. The name embodies its objectives: “A” signifying authenticity, “Vantage” symbolizing a distinctive perspective, and a hint at Berman’s past as a member of the AV club during childhood.

He laughs and grins as he admits, ‘I’ve always been a cinematic child at heart.’ It’s all about viewpoint, he explains, providing filmmakers with an opportunity to share meaningful narratives, and audiences with a unique chance to perceive the world in a fresh manner.

Berman has consistently backed innovative filmmakers who have a unique perspective to share, spanning from indie hits like “Nine Days” starring Winston Duke, to big-budget studio films such as Ben Affleck’s “Air.” Numerous of his productions have showcased debut directors and underheard voices within the industry.

Ever since my debut movie in 2009, I’ve found myself attracted to narratives that echo experiences I didn’t personally live through. Growing up in Baltimore, a multicultural city, and being dyslexic as a child made me feel distinct. It might be the reason why I’m so fascinated by filmmakers who possess uncommon viewpoints.

Instead of “Highest 2 Lowest” grabbing all the attention, another A/Vantage film highlights the company’s broader aspirations: a forthcoming project based on the creation of Gatorade, reminiscent of an episode from Seth Rogen’s comedic series “The Studio.” This narrative follows Dr. Robert Cade and Dr. Dana DeCastris, a Cuban immigrant, who played crucial roles in the invention of the world’s first electrolyte drink to help athletes stay hydrated.

Berman emphasizes that the creation of a sports drink isn’t just its origin story; it’s about medical professionals addressing a public health predicament, and how this invention revolutionized both sports and medicine.

The heart of this tale revolves around the immigrant journey, underscoring the frequent origin of groundbreaking concepts in the most unassuming settings.

What really gets me pumped is when a film manages to both captivate and spark meaningful discussions. That’s essentially the essence of what A/Vantage is all about.

Even so, “From Greatest to Least” serves as the company’s trademark. This contemporary retelling of Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 masterpiece “High and Low” is titled thus, and it unfolds in present-day New York, where a prominent music executive finds himself entangled in an ethical dilemma when a ransom plot ensues. Washington, Jeffrey Wright, and A$AP Rocky make up the impressive cast. The script was penned by Alan Fox and has been popular in Hollywood for many years, with Mike Nichols and David Mamet previously involved.

In today’s unpredictable market, characterized by strikes and significant shrinkage of the industry, starting a new business isn’t an easy task. However, Berman welcomes the challenge.

He advises being proactive, not just waiting for approval. Instead, you should construct, discuss, and make every penny count.

As ‘Highest 2 Lowest’ is about to make its grand entrance on one of the world’s largest platforms, Berman envisions A/Vantage as a potential hub for future storytellers to resonate and amplify their narratives.

Berman emphasizes the importance of achieving both impact and reach: “Stories should not require a choice between being impactful and having a wide audience. The most effective ones manage to achieve both.

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2025-05-17 15:16