Published on September 17th, 2024 | by Jessica Williams

Urban Film Festival 2024: Romeo Miller Helps Amplify Diverse Voices and Untold Stories

This past Labor Day weekend, Miami’s historic Overtown district hosted the 9th Annual Urban Film Festival, a vibrant celebration of diverse voices in cinema. The festival has become a crucial platform for marginalized communities, giving emerging filmmakers the chance to showcase their work to a broader audience. Over the years, the Urban Film Festival has evolved into a hub of creativity, fostering growth in Miami’s dynamic film scene.

Among the festival’s strongest supporters are esteemed actor, filmmaker, and serial entrepreneur Romeo Miller, along with Allan Maldonado, an actor known for his impressive roles in hit films and TV shows like Straight Outta Compton, The Last O.G., Black-ish, and The Wonder Years. Both have been integral partners in the festival since its inception, investing in the growth and support of the next generation of filmmakers and actors. Their commitment to providing a platform for young talent has helped the Urban Film Festival evolve into a nurturing environment where creativity and storytelling flourish.

Highlighting Underrepresented Stories

One of the standout films this year was To Myself, With Love: The Bessie Stringfield Story, a documentary that tells the incredible story of Bessie Stringfield, a Black woman who defied societal norms by riding her motorcycle cross-country in the 1930s and 40s. Director Diane Fredel-Weis, who spent five years researching and producing the film, unearthed rare audio recordings and previously untold stories about Stringfield. The film resonates with those who face obstacles and refuse to give up, as Stringfield’s tenacity serves as an inspiration to all.

Fredel-Weis dedicated the documentary to Jackie Bailey, a Black producer who played a pivotal role in her career. Though Bailey passed away during the production, the filmmaker invited Bailey’s son, Jason, to the Miami premiere. “I hope Bessie’s story inspires anyone who feels like they can’t go on,” Fredel-Weis shared. “She had countless opportunities to turn back, but she didn’t, and that’s a story worth telling.”

Empowering Youth Filmmakers

The festival also served as a platform for young filmmakers like 17-year-old Kyla Holmes, whose short film The Pad Hustle drew attention to an issue often overlooked in schools: access to menstrual products. Created during Black Girls Film Camp, the film follows a teenager who turns her unexpected period into an opportunity to provide pads for her classmates in a resource-limited school. Holmes hopes her film inspires others to take action when they see a problem. “If you have a solution, do what you have to do to help others,” she said.

Holmes’ film underscores a critical issue faced by students, especially in communities where funding for basic resources is scarce. By addressing the lack of menstrual products in schools, The Pad Hustle encourages open conversations about periods and the importance of accessible feminine hygiene products.

Breaking Mental Health Stigmas

Another film that struck a chord was From Loss to Love & Laughter, a short film about a couple who reconnect through group therapy. The film, created by real-life couple Gabrielle Reyes and Ace Anderson, shines a light on the importance of mental health care, particularly in communities of color. The couple’s journey through therapy, both individually and together, showcases the power of seeking help and breaking the stigma around mental health.

A Story of Triumph: The Reject

One of the festival’s most anticipated films was The Reject, an adaptation of Kionne McGhee’s memoir, A Mere I Can is American. The film follows McGhee’s tumultuous childhood and his journey of post-traumatic growth. With veteran actor Romeo Miller portraying Coach Spencer, the film captures the essence of overcoming adversity. “This is an underdog story,” Miller explained. “Everyone won’t believe in you, but who do you become when the world is against you? That’s the real question.”

McGhee’s story reminds viewers that even in the face of overwhelming obstacles, growth and success are possible. By staying true to the book, the film highlights the key figures who shaped McGhee’s life, including his high school girlfriend and mentor, who both played significant roles in his academic and personal success.

Celebrating Creativity and Community

The Urban Film Festival has become a cherished space for creatives to share their stories. Whether through the lens of historical figures, young voices, or personal triumphs, the festival showcases the resilience and innovation of filmmakers from underrepresented backgrounds. The involvement of industry heavyweights like Romeo Miller and Allan Maldonado, who continue to support and invest in the next generation, ensures that this festival will remain a key player in shaping the future of cinema. As the Miami film scene continues to grow, this festival remains at the heart of amplifying stories that deserve to be told.

(Photo Credit: Ian Ramdial)