A-Story Entertainment Launches as Non-Profit Production Company (EXCLUSIVE) — Film News in Brief

As a passionate advocate for creativity and fresh voices in filmmaking, I’m thrilled to share the exciting news: A-Story Entertainment, a remarkable non-profit production company, is officially setting sail! What makes this venture even more inspiring is their innovative Impact Film Fund, designed specifically to nurture independent and rising talents like ourselves.

The organization is partnering with the Trilith Institute to channel new creators into A-Story Entertainment’s production system. Jeffrey Stepakoff, CEO of the Trilith Institute who is recognized for producing “Dawson’s Creek,” heads this collaboration aimed at fostering creative ideas and offering resources and opportunities for various projects and artists.

For a long time, independent creators have been searching for options beyond the traditional studio system, and that’s precisely what we’re constructing,” Stepakoff stated. “What we’re providing are unique opportunities that aren’t found anywhere else. We’re transforming the landscape of our industry by not only allowing productions to be filmed here, but also nurturing their inception and growth right here. This impact fund ensures that storytellers have the necessary tools to flourish within a vibrant local environment, while simultaneously stimulating substantial and lasting economic growth across the region.

Erik Hyman, a partner and joint head of the global entertainment and media division at Paul Hastings, works with A-Story Entertainment.

Tuesday, Feb. 4

Abramorama Picks Up U.S. Distribution Rights to Documentary ‘Meanwhile’

Abramorama now holds the rights to distribute “Meanwhile,” a six-part documentary poem, in American cinemas, which delves into themes of racial issues and artistic defiance.

The documentary is being produced jointly with Jacqueline Woodson (novelist/poet), Meshell Ndegeocello (composer), Erika Dilday (producer), M. Trevino (editor), and Catherine Gund (director).

Karol Martesko-Fenster, CEO of Abramorama, expressed excitement about their partnership with the dedicated storyteller Catherine Gund and Aubin Pictures. He praised Catherine for creating a film that’s museum-worthy, mirroring the spirit of our times while also delving into the intricacies of life. This powerful narrative becomes even more impactful when viewed on the large screen.

Simultaneously, the production “Meanwhile” will commence its theatrical presentation in New York City at DCTV’s Firehouse Cinema from this coming Friday, the 14th of March. Following this, it will broaden its reach and be screened nationwide across the United States.

Richard Zelinker’s ‘The Vortex’ Sets Limited Theatrical Release Dates

Richard Zelniker’s independent drama “The Vortex” is slated for a limited cinema screening in February and March. The movie, featuring Billy Gardell, Jaina Lee Ortiz, Jamie McShane, and Christopher Titus, tells the story of a Paiute cleaning lady who unwittingly triggers a series of peculiar occurrences when she steps into a slots room at the MGM Grand Casino.

In the movie summary, Gardell’s character Pete is depicted as the in-house comedian at a casino. He functions as a kind of therapist for an assortment of eccentric individuals, all while avoiding trouble from mobsters and debt collectors. Battling a compulsion towards gambling, Pete finds himself at a crossroads, facing a critical choice that could significantly impact his future.

The movie features Emily Alabi, Nick Gomez, and Jeremy Luke as its cast members. “The Vortex” is a production of Zelniker, jointly written with Steven Barr. Adriana Rotaru, Justin Richards, Callie Nguyen Zelniker from Lucid Pictures, and Zelniker herself are the producers. Brodrick Haygood serves as executive producer for Moon Howler, while Olliecorp Productions’ Steven Barr and Synkronized (SKD)’s Alex Cohen will handle global distribution.

Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson to Host 12th Annual MUAHS Awards

The dancing duo from “Dancing with the Stars,” Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson, will serve as hosts for the 12th Annual Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild Awards (MUAHS, IATSE Local 706). This awards event is scheduled for February 15 at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles.

Julie Socash, President of MUAHS and IATSE Local 706 stated that “Val and Jenna are exceptional dancers on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and recipients of the mirror ball trophy. Their incredible performances display not only immense skill and creativity but also a magnetic charm. It is always a delight to collaborate with them when creating weekly characters for the show, sometimes even making live changes during a single episode. We are privileged and excited to have Val and Jenna grace our MUAHS show as this year’s hosts, showcasing their magic and talent.

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2025-02-04 20:47