"Respect My Crown": A Night of Film and Discussion on the Rise of Black Women in Politics
Join us for a special screening of "Respect My Crown", a documentary highlighting the rise of Black women in California politics, followed by an insightful panel discussion with filmmakers and community leaders. We discuss it here!
By: Omar Cook
Join us on Tuesday, October 29th from 6-9 PM for an evening of inspiration and empowerment at The World Stage in Los Angeles, presented by Beyond Image and 247 Live Culture. This exciting event will feature a free educational film screening of the powerful documentary, Respect My Crown: The Rise of African American Women in California Politics.
This compelling film chronicles the groundbreaking journeys of 34 influential Black women who have shaped California’s political landscape, including leaders like Karen Bass, Holly Mitchell, Sweet Alice, Heather Hutt, Barbara Lee, and Yvonne Brathwaite Burke. The documentary sheds light on their resilience and perseverance in overcoming systemic barriers to leadership in politics, labor, activism, and the judicial system.
Following the screening, there will be a "Respect My Crown" panel discussion featuring the filmmakers Pamela Bright-Moon and Alisa Bass Covington, author Robert Lee Johnson, along with Omar Cook and Adonis Armstrong from 247 Live Culture. This discussion will explore the stories behind the film and the importance of Black women’s leadership in shaping the future of California and beyond.
The event will be held at The World Stage, located at 4321 Degnan Blvd, Los Angeles, California 90008 (entrance around the back). It promises to be a night of education, inspiration, and community engagement, as we rally together for the Harris-Walz ticket and celebrate the contributions of Black women in leadership.
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Becoming an Actor: 4 Tips to Help You Begin Your Acting Career
Beginning your acting career can be an exciting yet daunting journey. Here are four essential tips to help you begin your acting career on the right foot!
Kendon Tillis, Omar Cook, Duane Finley, Maurice Hardwick, Demetre Davis, Anthony Russell, and Adonis Armstrong on set of movie LA Undercover 2.
By: Omar Cook
Beginning your acting career can be an exciting yet daunting journey. While the entertainment industry offers endless opportunities, navigating the path to success requires careful and strategic planning.
Of course we all want to be the next biggest star, Oscar winner, and booking all of the top roles, but we have to start from somewhere. Here are four essential tips to help you begin your acting career on the right foot!
1. Enroll in Acting Classes
One of the first steps to beginning your acting career is by developing your skills through professional acting classes. These classes provide invaluable opportunities to gain practical experience, refine your talent, and build a strong foundation in acting techniques. Whether you're a complete novice or have some experience in the field, acting classes offer a supportive environment where you can learn from seasoned instructors and fellow aspiring actors. By immersing yourself in acting classes, you'll not only develop your craft but also network with industry professionals and discover new opportunities for growth.
To begin your journey with acting classes, check out 247LC Film Academy.
2. Invest in Professional Headshots
Acting is a competitive environment, and, first impressions matter. Professional headshots serve as your calling card in the industry, showcasing your unique look and personality to casting directors and talent agents. Investing in high-quality headshots is essential to making a memorable impression and increasing your chances of landing auditions. When choosing a photographer, choose someone with notable industry experience in capturing headshots for actors and performers. Ensure that your headshots accurately represent your age range, casting type, and potential roles, as you will need headshots to match certain character types.
3. Build a Professional Actor Reel
A video reel is a powerful tool for actors to showcase their talent and versatility to casting directors and agents. If you don't have professional reel footage yet, you can create your own by filming yourself performing 2-3 monologues or scenes. Use a high-quality camera, such as an iPhone, and make sure that you have good lighting and sound quality. Choose monologues or scenes that showcase your acting range and personality. Once you have your footage, edit it together with the most exciting scenes first, and include clips that showcase your talent. A great video reel can significantly increase your chances of receiving auditions and landing roles. As you begin to book more projects, update your video reel to reflect your current talent.
Omar Cook | Acting Demo Reel (2022)
4. Create a Profile on Casting Networks
In today's entertainment industry, casting networks have become the primary tools for actors seeking auditions and casting opportunities. Platforms like Backstage, Casting Networks, Actors Access, and central casting allow actors to create online profiles, upload headshots and resumes, and apply for auditions across various projects. By creating a profile on casting networks, you gain access to a vast network of casting calls, ranging from film and television productions, short films, to commercials and theater gigs. Be sure to regularly update your profile with recent headshots, credits, and demo reels to showcase your skills and experience effectively. Actors should make time at least twice a day to self submit to casting networks to begin receiving auditions.
Starting your acting career requires dedication, perseverance, and hustle. By enrolling in acting classes, investing in professional headshots and a reel, and creating profiles on casting networks, you'll set yourself up for success and take significant strides toward achieving your dreams in the world of acting. Acting is a journey and not an overnight process. Stay diligent to your goals, train your talents in class, and persevere through the up and down moments that come with working in a highly competitive industry.
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247LC Film Academy Launches in Los Angeles Aiming to Cultivate Next Generation of Talent
247 Live Culture Enterprises is proud to launch 247LC Film Academy, a dynamic performing arts institution with a commitment to serving Los Angeles and the global community. The academy aims to nurture aspiring actors, filmmakers, and screenwriters, while also cultivating visionary leaders who will shape the future of the entertainment industry. We discuss it here!
Filmmaker Adonis Armstrong Replays Footage on Set of LA Undercover 2
Credit: Josh Martin
LOS ANGELES, February 29, 2024 - 247 Live Culture Enterprises is proud to launch 247LC Film Academy, a dynamic performing arts institution founded by award-winning filmmakers and actors Omar Cook, Adonis Armstrong, and Phedora Evermoore. With a commitment to serving Los Angeles and the global community, the academy aims to nurture aspiring actors, filmmakers, and screenwriters, while also cultivating visionary leaders who will shape the future of the entertainment industry.
As the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles is the perfect setting for 247LC Film Academy's mission to empower individuals with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to succeed in the competitive landscape of entertainment. Whether students dream of acting in iconic roles, directing classic films, or writing world changing scripts, our academy provides a supportive and innovative environment to help them turn their aspirations into reality.
“Our vision for 247LC Film Academy is to create a platform where true creativity flourishes, real talent thrives, and dreams become reality," said Omar Cook, Co-Founder of 247LC Film Academy. "We believe in the power of storytelling to inspire, educate, and transform lives, and it is our mission to equip the next generation of entertainment industry leaders with the tools they need to make a meaningful impact on the world stage."
Apply Now to 247LC Film Academy
Led by a team of industry professionals with a track record of success, including numerous awards and accolades, 247LC Film Academy offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of acting, filmmaking, and screenwriting. From acting techniques and script development to directing, cinematography, and post-production, our courses are designed to provide students with a well-rounded education and practical skills they can apply in the real world.
In addition to technical skills, 247LC Film Academy places a strong emphasis on fostering creativity, critical thinking, and leadership qualities. Through hands-on projects, collaborative learning experiences, and mentorship opportunities, students will develop the confidence, resilience, and vision to become industry trailblazers and cultural influencers.
"We are committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel welcome, valued, and empowered to share their unique perspectives and stories” said Adonis Armstrong, Co-Founder of 247LC Film Academy.
As part of its commitment to accessibility and community engagement, 247LC Film Academy offers both in-person and online classes, allowing students to pursue their passion for acting and filmmaking regardless of their location or schedule. Whether attending classes in person in Los Angeles or participating in virtual workshops from anywhere in the world, students will benefit from personalized instruction, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
"This academy has a perfect blend of a hands-on experience and mentorship. Making this place the best place for aspiring filmmakers to flourish and grow creatively. ," said Phedora Evermoore, Co-Founder of 247LC Film Academy.
Applications are now open as classes will begin on March 11. For more information on class schedules and curriculum, visit www.247liveculture.com/247lcfilmacademy.
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'LA Undercover' Directors Omar Cook & Adonis Armstrong Debut Crime Drama Movie on Amazon
247LC Films duo, Omar Cook and Adonis Armstrong, make their feature film directorial debut with the release of their award winning crime drama, LA Undercover, on Amazon Prime! We discuss it here!
247LC Films Releases Gritty Crime Drama Thriller LA Undercover to Amazon Prime
HOLLYWOOD, CA – In the wake of their recent triumph at the prestigious Silicon Beach Film Festival held at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, filmmakers Omar Cook and Adonis Armstrong are thrilled to announce the release of their highly anticipated directorial debut, LA Undercover. This electrifying crime thriller, set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and Vudu.
LA Undercover follows the gripping journey of Corey Shaw, portrayed by Omar Cook, a dedicated rookie cop in the LAPD whose unwavering commitment is to uplift his community. However, as crime escalates in the city of angels, Corey is faced with the daunting task of infiltrating the ruthless criminal empire of Kevin "Keys" Lyles, played by Clay Cureton. The movie explores the delicate balance between maintaining personal relationships, fulfilling professional duties, and staying true to one's identity.
The Silicon Beach Film Festival recognized the exceptional storytelling and powerful performances in LA Undercover, by awarding it the prestigious Audience Award for Best Feature Film. This accolade is a testament to the talent and vision of directors Omar Cook and Adonis Armstrong, who skillfully crafted a cinematic experience that resonated with audiences.
“We’re paying homage to 90s film such as Boyz N Da Hood. Menace II Society.”
The cast of LA Undercover delivers outstanding performances that bring the story to life starring:
Omar Cook as Corey Shaw/Dray Jacobs
Clay Cureton as Keys
Adonis Armstrong as Ty
Queen Ajima as Sierra Morgan
Dustin Harnish as Ivan
Brandon Paul Johnson as Captain Drew Wright
Shala White as Detective Rodgers
Marcus Palmer as Detective Jackson
Sydney Martin as Nicole
Gentel Sharrie as Kim Chapman
Akin Coley as Strap
LA Undercover is a thrilling exploration of the complexities of duty, loyalty, and identity in the face of adversity. With its captivating narrative and compelling characters, this film promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
Omar Cook and Adonis Armstrong have teamed up to form an outstanding filmmaking duo rivaling the likes of the legendary Hughes Brothers. Together they have amassed over 30 awards in international film festivals with their most popular film being 13 time award winning crime drama short, Coke Boys. Cook and Armstrong’s production company, 247LC Films partnered with Buffalo 8 for worldwide distribution.
Queen Ajima Stars in LA Undercover
Cook and Armstrong are looking to bring back the 90s crime drama feel, reminiscent of iconic film directors such as Spike Lee and John Singleton. LA Undercover includes a hot soundtrack with music from rising hip hop and R&B artists such as Jhamasa, 1TakeOcho, LijahT, Qweezy’, Jeh $inatra, and William Prize. Watch the award winning film on Amazon Prime and stay tuned for more coming from this dynamic duo.
LA Undercover | Official Crime Drama Movie Trailer (2023)
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247 LC Films Premiere's 'LA Undercover' During Silicon Beach Film Festival
Family and friends gathered at the TCL Chinese Theater in Hollywood to celebrate the premiere of LA Undercover, a new 247LC Film at the Silicon Beach Film Festival. We discuss it here!
By: Jayla Smith
On September 13th, 2023, at 8:00 pm PST, everyone gathered in Hollywood to celebrate the premiere of LA Undercover, a new 247LC Film. Directed by the multifaceted Adonis Armstrong and Omar Cook, you can only presume that this movie will be one for the books! A long trail of attendees flooded the TCL Chinese Theatre in honor of the Silicon Beach Film Festival to see what the hype was all about. Let's just say that at the end of the evening, the audience was indeed fulfilled. Adonis and Omar both take on producing and acting roles in this masterpiece of a production. Christian Del Rio, also a producer, helped turn the boys' dreams go from paper to the big screen.
LA Undercover cast Adonis Armstrong, Clay Cureton, Robert Daniels, and Omar Cook Grace the Red Carpet at the Premiere of LA Undercover at the Silicon Beach Film Festival.
The cast and their family members joined them in celebration, including Adonis Armstrong, Omar Cook, Ajima Cole, Dustin Harnish, Shala White, Nefessa Johnson, Gentle Sharrie, Sydney Martin, and Clay Cureton. Combining the perfect elements of crime and drama, this movie had everyone clenching their seats! If you've seen the trailer, then you know that this movie is going to give you the fulfillment you need.
This is the kind of film we appreciate the most.
LA Undercover cast poses on the red carpet at the premiere at the Silicon Beach Film Festival.
It serves just enough of the relatability we need, the drama that we desire, and the crime we love to watch! On September 22, 2023, you can enjoy LA Undercover in the comfort of your own home on Amazon Prime, Vudu, Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, and Xfinity. I promise this is something you are going to crave to watch again.
Until then, check out the trailer below for a sneak peek!
LA UNDERCOVER | Crime Drama Movie Teaser (2023)
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Omar Cook Dedicates "Coke Boys" Crime Drama Film To 90s Film Directors
Award winning filmmaker Omar Cook dropped an action packed trailer to his new crime drama short film Coke Boys. Co-directed by and starring both Omar Cook and Adonis Armstrong, the film pays homage to 90s films such as Menace II Society, Boyz n the Hood, Juice, and New Jack City.
Omar Cook and Adonis Armstrong Star In “Coke Boys”
“Crime Drama is my favorite genre to watch and I wanted to create an entertaining film that was dramatic and gave life lessons at the same time. I like to show characters going through crazy situations to generate an emotional response from the audience and will leave you thinking afterwards. Legendary filmmakers such as John Singleton did an amazing job making you feel empathy for his characters through dramatic situations.”
Adonis Armstrong and Omar Cook in Coke Boys
This film pays homage to 90s crime dramas New Jack City, Menace II Society, Juice, and Boyz n the Hood, with some of the characters being named after pivotal characters from these classic films. Omar Cook and Adonis Armstrong tag team to co-direct this thriller short film. The duo racked up 18 awards in international film festivals this year from short films SKANDALOUZ and Deadly Thoughts, including Best Short Film, Best Debut Filmmaker, Best Actor, and Best Drama.
Coke Boys follows Cain (Omar Cook), a major Los Angeles drug dealer, and his crew as they supply the streets with coke and pills and taking out anyone standing in their way. The operation becomes shaky after one of his crew members, Trey (Adonis Armstrong) turns police informant, creating tension from within. Cain is caught between a booming drug operation and disloyalty among his associates.
Clay Cureton, Jon Budinoff, and Adonis Armstrong in Coke Boys
The film features outstanding performances from D’Asia Kaliyah as “Mya”, Clay Cureton as “Detective Harvey", and Andrew Smith as “Q”. Other supporting performances include Josh Butler, Michael Middleton, Alexander Texidor, Jon Budinoff, Jermaine Edmondson, and Shala White.
The soundtrack helps elevate the mood and tone of the film featuring multiple unreleased tracks from rising hip hop artists LijahT and William Prize.
Omar Cook in Coke Boys
Coke Boys is expected to do a major festival run before heading to streaming. The action packed trailer leaves you eager to see the full film in anticipation. 247LC Films is on a role with their third short film of the year and this one certainly did not disappoint.
Watch the action packed trailer below!
Official trailer for “Coke Boys” short film directed by Omar Cook and Adonis Armstrong
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Omar Cook Makes His Directorial Debut in Award Winning Short Film "SKANDALOUZ"
Rising actor and filmmaker, Omar Cook, makes his directorial debut with his six time award winning short film, SKANDALOUZ. Starring Adonis Armstrong as “Marcus Williams” and Jessie Reeder as “Kayla Williams”, SKANDALOUZ is a must see film that touches on domestic violence, infidelity, and deviousness within friendships.
Adonis Armstrong, Jessie Reeder, Omar Cook, Gentel Sharrie Star in "SKANDALOUZ"
Rising actor and filmmaker, Omar Cook, makes his directorial debut with his six time award winning short film, SKANDALOUZ. The film has garnered international success taking home awards such as Best Short Film and Best Drama.
Jessie Reeder Starring in “SKANDALOUZ”
SKANDALOUZ is a must see film that touches on domestic violence, infidelity, and deviousness within friendships. Starring Adonis Armstrong as “Marcus Williams” and Jessie Reeder as “Kayla Williams”, the film takes on a journey into a young couple’s relationship and their ups and downs. Marcus Williams (Adonis) is a successful young lawyer on the verge of becoming Junior Partner. He is career driven and selfish in his motives. After Kayla Williams (Jessie) , his wife of 5 years, finds out Marcus is cheating, Marcus is left to deal with his own mess, with serious consequences.
Adonis Armstrong Starring in “SKANDALOUZ”
Omar Cook also stars as “Derek”, Marcus’s close fiend while Gentel Sharrie stars as Stacy McCall, Marcus’s co-worker. Adonis Armstrong and Jessie Reeder put on strong dramatic performances earning them both nominations for Best Actor and Best Actress at the Black Panther International Film Festival. Adonis portrays the character of “Marcus” so well you believe he is the character in real life.
“I wanted to create a film that would bring people to the edge of their seats in every scene and tell a story that people can relate to through dramatic experiences. Domestic violence and infidelity are common issues in our society and this film touches on both topics equally.”
Gentel Sharrie Starring in “SKANDALOUZ”
Jessie Reeder and Omar Cook have had major success in other movies this year including starring in award winning sci-fi movie, God of Dreams” which is an official selection at the American Black Film Festival this year.
Omar Cook Starring in “SKANDALOUZ”
Keep a look out for all of these rising actors as they are all involved in some exciting projects this year. Omar Cook has proven that he can wear the Director hat as well as write and act as well. Jessie Reeder and Adonis Armstrong showcased their skills as leading actors while Gentel Sharrie provides a supporting role that provides major importance to the entire film.
Watch the award winning film below!
SKANDALOUZ | Award Winning Drama Short Film (2022)