Freaknik Unveiled: 7 Mind-Blowing Revelations from the Documentary
From its humble beginnings to its meteoric rise as a transformative movement in cultural history, and ultimately to its demise amidst a tragic twist of fate, "Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told" offers an unfiltered glimpse into a bygone era. Here are 7 mind-blowing revelations from the documentary.
Photo Credit: HULU
As '90s babies, we've all been regaled with the legendary tales of the wild escapades that defined ATL during Freaknik in the '80s and late '90s. With only camcorders to capture the madness and no internet to discern fact from fiction, separating reality from urban folklore proved to be a Herculean task. But fear not, for the long-anticipated "Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told" Documentary has finally arrived to set the record straight.
Released on Thursday, March 21st, on Hulu, this documentary, executive produced by the trifecta of 21 Savage, Jermaine Dupri, and Uncle Luke, along with insightful commentary from the very architects of Freaknik, promises to peel back the layers of this cultural phenomenon. With contributions from luminaries such as Lil Jon, Killer Mike, Jalen Rose, Too $hort, Shanti Das, former Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Erick Sermon, CeeLo Green, Rico Wade, Kenny Burns, and a host of others, the film takes viewers deep into the heart and soul of Freaknik.
Through candid interviews and never-before-seen footage, these titans of hip-hop and cultural commentary lay bare the realities of Freaknik, revealing truths that challenge our preconceived notions and shatter long-held myths. From its humble beginnings to its meteoric rise as a transformative movement in cultural history, and ultimately to its demise amidst a tragic twist of fate, "Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told" offers an unfiltered glimpse into a bygone era. Here are 7 mind-blowing revelations from the documentary.
Freaknik attendee’s party on top of a jeep.
Photo Credit: HULU
1. The Birth of Freaknik
Freaknik's origins trace back to a modest picnic for college students in Atlanta during spring break, initially supported by community donations and catering exclusively to the collegiate audience from 1982 through 1988. Amidst Atlanta's historically black colleges, it blossomed into a celebration of black culture and community, fueled by the infectious spirit of camaraderie. By 1989, however, the event had evolved, attracting thousands to the city and marking the beginning of its transformation into a cultural phenomenon. Despite its provocative name, inspired by the R&B anthem "Le Freak," Freaknik was never intended as a literal "freak feast," but rather as a joyous homage to the vibrant energy of black culture and connection.
2. The Founders of Freaknik are not from Atlanta
While Freaknik made history in Atlanta, its original founders, Emma Horton, Amadi Boone, Monique Tolliver, and Sharon Toomer, from the DMV, sought to bring a taste of Chocolate City to Atlanta—and succeeded admirably. Within the campus, clubs were divided based on city or state affiliations, and the Metro DC club gained renown for hosting the most unforgettable parties.
Jermaine Dupri DJ’s a Freaknik event.
Photo Credit: HULU
3. Freaknik Was Southern Rap's Gateway to Global
Freaknik played a critical role in propelling Southern Rap to international prominence. It is a legendary event ingrained in Hip-Hop culture, immortalized in songs, metaphors, and music videos. Back then, radio stations like V103 primarily played R&B music, leaving rap to out-of-town DJs who preferred New York artists such as Erik B and Rakim, LL Cool J, and Big Daddy Kane—much to the dissatisfaction of local artists and musicians.
Uncle Luke
Photo Credit: HULU
4. Uncle Luke Put the Freak in Freaknik
Believe it or not, Freaknik didn't always carry the connotations of sexually explicit culture, although it fostered an environment where expression was embraced and celebrated. Originally, it was simply a gathering where students came together to feel connected and revel in the joy of camaraderie. In the documentary, Uncle Luke candidly shared, "I brought the freak to Freaknik. Sh*t … somebody had to do it," noting that his video "Work It Out" [1993] was filmed at Freaknik.
While the essence of Freaknik began to transcend mere picnics and parties prior to The Luke EP, the Miami rapper unquestionably played a pivotal role in elevating the street affair to unprecedented heights, introducing elements of sexually explicit culture that would come to define subsequent versions of the event.
5. The Olympics Sparked The Death of Freaknik
In 1996, as Atlanta prepared to host the Olympics, the city was thrust into the global spotlight, prompting political leaders to scrutinize the annual gathering. The documentary explains how, while the Olympic Games brought prestige to Atlanta, they proved catastrophic for Freaknik. Then-Mayor Bill Campbell, tasked with ensuring a flawless experience for athletes and politicians from all over the world, actively opposed the street party. Concerned officials feared that the celebrations would disrupt Olympic preparations, leading to the closure of freeway exits and streets, resulting in gridlocked traffic that would paralyze the city and planned Freaknik events over the weekend.
6. A Different World Took Freaknik National
Because there was no social media or savvy cell phones to share information back in the 80’s this group of dedicated students were able to take a local event global by world of moth. a 1989 episode of the Cosby Show spinoff set at the fictional HBCU Hillman College helped put Atlanta’s Spring Break event in the national spotlight when two of the sitcom’s characters sneak off to attend a Freaknik concert. The previous year, Morehouse Man Spike Lee’s shot-in-Atlanta School Daze also helped to popularize the HBCU experience.
Photo Credit: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
7. Outkast got their big break at Freaknik
Andre 3000 confidently stated that, despite the dominance of East Coast artists and R&B on local airwaves, the South had found its voice. OutKast's timing couldn't have been better, as they released their debut album "Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik" during Freaknik week in 1994, just as the event's traffic was at its peak. With thousands of college students stuck in traffic, LaFace Records' street teams seized the opportunity to distribute free cassette samplers of the album to a captive audience. The transmissible beats of "Player's Ball" quickly spread from downtown Peachtree Street to Buckhead's Peachtree Road, causing a seismic shift in the Southern hip-hop landscape.
As the credits roll and the dust settles, viewers are left with seven eye-opening revelations from this documentary. It's a journey that transcends nostalgia, inviting us to reevaluate our understanding of Freaknik and its enduring impact on American culture. So sit back, grab your popcorn, and prepare to have your mind blown by the untold truths of Freaknik. Stream it now on Hulu.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Michelle Buteau to Make History with Comedy Special at Radio City Music Hall
Michelle Buteau is making history as the first Black woman to record a comedy special at Radio City Music Hall. We discuss it here!
Michelle Buteau, dressed in attire by Keia Bounds, graces the New York premiere of Netflix's "Survival Of The Thickest" at Metrograph on July 11, 2023.
Photo Credit: LEV RADIN/SHUTTERSTOCK
By: Joshua Martin
Uber talented comedian and actress Michelle Buteau is set to make history later this summer with the filming of her upcoming comedy special. ‘The Survival of the Thickest’ creator will become the first woman to film a comedy special at the legendary Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
Buteau revealed at this year’s 2024 NAACP Image Awards that she will be the first woman, Black or otherwise, to tape a special at the historic venue.
“I have another special coming out. We’re going to be filming it at Radio City Music Hall on June 6. I will be the first woman and woman of color to be taping a special there, so that’s why I’m saying these things matters. You got to lay the groundwork for other people to come and think they can do it and know that they can do it.”
She also teased what's next for her on screen character, Mavis Beaumont, in the second season of the hilarious Netflix hit ‘Survival of The Thickest’.
“It’s bigger, Blacker, bustier, bi**hier than before. All the B-words. It’s adulting next level. So, I feel like whatever you connected to, I just can’t wait for you to see what has happened.”
In addition to her ongoing comedy series and upcoming special, Buteau will star alongside Ilana Glazer in a new comedic film entitled ‘Babes’. Eden, portrayed by Glazer, gets pregnant from a one-night stand and has to rely on the help of Dawn, played by Buteau, a married mother of two for support. The film is set to premiere on May 17.
Buteau also captured the award for ‘Outstanding Breakthrough Creative’ in television at the 55th edition of the NAACP Image Awards.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Essence Returns To LA For The Fifth Annual Hollywood House
ESSENCE Hollywood House returned to Los Angeles for its fifth annual event, which featured some of the industry's most well-known names and executives in film and television. We discuss it here!
Photo Credit: Paras Griffin/Getty Images for ESSENCE
Los Angeles, California, March 8, 2024 - ESSENCE Hollywood House returned to Los Angeles for its fifth annual event, which featured some of the industry's most well-known names and executives in film and television. Skye Townsend hosted the event, which aimed to provide the community with the tools and resources needed to address some of the industry's most pressing challenges.
The day offered attendees a variety of opportunities to break into the entertainment industry, including a free mini-makeover and headshot session, a 30-second elevator pitch booth, a mock film set, and more. Panel discussions, fireside chats, and speed mentoring sessions focused on key issues for film and television enthusiasts and professionals. Let’s get into the tea that got spilled all day!
Photo Credit: Paras Griffin/Getty Images for ESSENCE
During the Fireside chat with Da'Vine Joy Randolph (The Holdovers) and Mikki Taylor, former ESSENCE editor and author, discussed the highs and lows of the entertainment industry and how to stay authentically true to yourself.
Nandi Howard (Vice President of Content & Senior Content Director, Essence Ventures) moderated the Partner in Prime discussion with Grace Africa (2022 TikTok Trailblazer) and Elsa Majimbo (Comedian) regarding the way sisterhood impacts their lives and success in the entertainment industry.
For an exciting dose of tea on Fashion x Film: Careers in Fashion Design: Dominique Dawson (Actress Origin) and Tanja Caldwell (Usher's 2024 Super Bowl halftime performance) share insights into the creative process that drives the art of costume design.
Black on Screen: A Global Dialogue: Barkue Tubman-Zawolo (Chief of Staff, Diasporic & Talent Engagement, ESSENCE Ventures), Phylicia Pearl Mpasi (Actress, The Color Purple), Osas Ighodaro (Actress, Man of God), and Ozi Menakaya (Film & TV Agent at Creative Artists Agency) discuss maintaining authenticity in front and behind the camera during the Black on Screen: A Global Dialogue panel.
Hosted by Rechelle Dennis, Da'Vinchi (STARZ BMF), and Layla DeLeon Hayes (The Angry Black Girl and Her Monster), we gained insight into what it is like to be a Fresh Face of Black Hollywood today.
Olivia Charmaine (Morris) Bernardez (Netflix animated feature films) and Korin D. Williams (Kronicle Media) led the Producers Lane: The Ins and Outs of Production at Every Level panel, which dug deeply into the world of production and the work that goes into each title.
In Cast Talkback with Diarra From Detroit Stephanie Dunivan (Vice President of Branded Content & Video, ESSENCE Ventures) led a profound discussion with Diarra Kilpatrick (BET's Diarra From Detroit), DomiNque Perry (Actress, Insecure), and Claudia Logan (Actress, The Equalizer), offering a sneak peek of their upcoming BET+ series, Diarra From Detroit, which premieres on March 21st.
You can always count on essence to capture the essence that it is to be black and Hollywood.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
'Power' Spinoff 'Origins': A Prequel on Ghost and Tommy
STARZ is once again broadening the Power Universe with a prequel spinoff series titled Origins, set to reunite Ghost and Tommy. We discuss it here!
50 Cent (Kanan), Joseph Sikora (Tommy), and Omari Hardwick (Ghost).
photo cred: STARZ
By: Joshua Martin
Ghost and Tommy make their highly anticipated return to late night television with Power: Origins a prequel to the original Power series. STARZ recently announced the series’ fourth spinoff is in the early stages of development.
The Power universe has been all gas no breaks since the original series ended in 2020. With both ‘Raising Kanan’ and ‘Power Book IV: Force’ filming their new seasons and ‘Power Book II: Ghost’ gearing up for its highly-anticipated series finale, it seems as if things won’t be dying down anytime soon.
Origins will center around the origin stories of James “Ghost” St. Patrick and his partner-in-crime, Tommy Egan. Both of whom were brought to life by Omari Hardwick and Joseph Sikora in the original ‘Power’ series.
“As we approach the 10-year anniversary of Power it is incredible to witness the enormous connection our fans have with the Power universe. We can’t wait to see how ‘Origins’ will further evolve this dynamic franchise while bringing fresh, gripping, and expansive storytelling to our audience.”
Shortly after the official announcement, 50 Cent who portrayed Kanan Stark in the original series, took to Twitter/X to deliver to fans this exciting news.
You asked, I answered. Young Ghost and Tommy coming your way. Power Origins now in development. #PowerUniverse #GUnitFilmandTV pic.twitter.com/EMGBi80n4G
— 50cent (@50cent) March 13, 2024
Kanan Stark is a fan-favorite of the series and his origin story can be seen in ‘Power Book III: Raising Kanan.
The cast of ‘Origins’ has yet to be announced, but fans are enthusiastically requesting that Hardwick and Sikora reprise their roles as narrators. Similar to what 50 Cent does on ‘Raising Kanan’.
The series will be executive produced by original Power creator and showrunner, Courtney A. Kemp, through her production company End of Episode, as well as Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson through G-Unit Film and Television and Mark Canton through Canton Entertainment.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Unveiling the Oscars 2024: A Night of Glamour, Surprises, and Cinematic Excellence
Discover the highlights, surprises, and memorable moments from last night's Oscars ceremony, where the film industry's finest talents were celebrated in a star-studded event. We discuss it here!
Da’Vine Joy Randolph
photo cred: CONRAD CAPTURES
By: Joshua Martin
The world’s biggest names in entertainment once again descended upon La La Land for the 96th annual Academy Awards. Per usual, the Oscars were filled with exciting moments and performances as stars from around the globe celebrated the past year of big screen releases. Dramedies like “American Fiction” and “the Holdovers”, to Timepieces like “Rustin” and “Oppenheimer”, the glamorous night served to acknowledge the best films of 2023.
The Oscars were chock full of exciting moments and performances as Jimmy Kimmel returned as host for the fourth time. Let's highlight one of the night's key moments and the complete list of award winners.
Actor Da’Vine Joy Randolph received the first award of the night for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Mary Lamb in Alexander Payne’s “The Holdovers”.
“My mother said to me—go across that street to that theater department, there’s something for you there. I thank my mother for doing that. I thank all the people who have stepped in my path and have been there for me and ushered me and guided me. I am so grateful for all you beautiful people out there. I prayed for so long...I always wanted to be different, but now I realize that I just need to be myself. I thank you for seeing me.”
ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
BRADLEY COOPER in Maestro
COLMAN DOMINGO in Rustin
PAUL GIAMATTI in The Holdovers
Winner: CILLIAN MURPHY in Oppenheimer
JEFFREY WRIGHT in American Fiction
ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
STERLING K. BROWN in American Fiction
ROBERT DE NIRO in Killers of the Flower Moon
Winner: ROBERT DOWNEY JR. in Oppenheimer
RYAN GOSLING in Barbie
MARK RUFFALO in Poor Things
ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE
ANNETTE BENING in Nyad
LILY GLADSTONE in Killers of the Flower Moon
SANDRA HÜLLER in Anatomy of a Fall
CAREY MULLIGAN in Maestro
Winner: EMMA STONE in Poor Things
ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
EMILY BLUNT in Oppenheimer
DANIELLE BROOKS in The Color Purple
AMERICA FERRERA in Barbie
JODIE FOSTER in Nyad
Winner: DA’VINE JOY RANDOLPH in The Holdovers
ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
Winner: THE BOY AND THE HERON — Hayao Miyazaki and Toshio Suzuki
ELEMENTAL — Peter Sohn and Denise Ream
NIMONA — Nick Bruno, Troy Quane, Karen Ryan and Julie Zackary
ROBOT DREAMS — Pablo Berger, Ibon Cormenzana, Ignasi Estapé and Sandra Tapia Díaz
SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE — Kemp Powers, Justin K. Thompson, Phil Lord, Christopher Miller and Amy Pascal
CINEMATOGRAPHY
EL CONDE — Edward Lachman
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON — Rodrigo Prieto
MAESTRO — Matthew Libatique
Winner: OPPENHEIMER — Hoyte van Hoytema
POOR THINGS — Robbie Ryan
COSTUME DESIGN
BARBIE — Jacqueline Durran
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON — Jacqueline West
NAPOLEON — Janty Yates and Dave Crossman
OPPENHEIMER — Ellen Mirojnick
Winner: POOR THINGS — Holly Waddington
DIRECTING
ANATOMY OF A FALL — Justine Triet
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON — Martin Scorsese
Winner: OPPENHEIMER — Christopher Nolan
POOR THINGS — Yorgos Lanthimos
THE ZONE OF INTEREST — Jonathan Glazer
DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM
BOBI WINE: THE PEOPLE’S PRESIDENT — Moses Bwayo, Christopher Sharp and John Battsek
THE ETERNAL MEMORY — Maite Alberdi
FOUR DAUGHTERS — Kaouther Ben Hania and Nadim Cheikhrouha
TO KILL A TIGER — Nisha Pahuja, Cornelia Principe and David Oppenheim
Winner: 20 DAYS IN MARIUPOL — Mstyslav Chernov, Michelle Mizner and Raney Aronson-Rath
DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM
THE ABCS OF BOOK BANNING — Sheila Nevins and Trish Adlesic
THE BARBER OF LITTLE ROCK — John Hoffman and Christine Turner
ISLAND IN BETWEEN — S. Leo Chiang and Jean Tsien
Winner: THE LAST REPAIR SHOP —Ben Proudfoot and Kris Bowers
NǍI NAI & WÀI PÓ — Sean Wang and Sam Davis
FILM EDITING
ANATOMY OF A FALL — Laurent Sénéchal
THE HOLDOVERS — Kevin Tent
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON — Thelma Schoonmaker
Winner: OPPENHEIMER — Jennifer Lame
POOR THINGS — Yorgos Mavropsaridis
INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM
IO CAPITANO — Italy
PERFECT DAYS — Japan
SOCIETY OF THE SNOW — Spain
THE TEACHERS’ LOUNGE — Germany
Winner: THE ZONE OF INTEREST — United Kingdom
MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING
GOLDA — Karen Hartley Thomas, Suzi Battersby and Ashra Kelly-Blue
MAESTRO — Kazu Hiro, Kay Georgiou and Lori McCoy-Bell
OPPENHEIMER — Luisa Abel
Winner: POOR THINGS — Nadia Stacey, Mark Coulier and Josh Weston
SOCIETY OF THE SNOW — Ana López-Puigcerver, David Martí and Montse Ribé
MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE)
AMERICAN FICTION — Laura Karpman
INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY — John Williams
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON — Robbie Robertson
Winner: OPPENHEIMER — Ludwig Göransson
POOR THINGS — Jerskin Fendrix
MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG)
THE FIRE INSIDE from Flamin’ Hot; Music and Lyric by Diane Warren
I’M JUST KEN from Barbie; Music and Lyric by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt
IT NEVER WENT AWAY from American Symphony; Music and Lyric by Jon Batiste and Dan Wilson
WAHZHAZHE (A SONG FOR MY PEOPLE) from Killers of the Flower Moon; Music and Lyric by Scott George
Winner: WHAT WAS I MADE FOR? from Barbie; Music and Lyric by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell
BEST PICTURE
AMERICAN FICTION — Ben LeClair, Nikos Karamigios, Cord Jefferson and Jermaine Johnson, Producers
ANATOMY OF A FALL — Marie-Ange Luciani and David Thion, Producers
BARBIE — David Heyman, Margot Robbie, Tom Ackerley and Robbie Brenner, Producers
THE HOLDOVERS — Mark Johnson, Producer
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON — Dan Friedkin, Bradley Thomas, Martin Scorsese and Daniel Lupi, Producers
MAESTRO — Bradley Cooper, Steven Spielberg, Fred Berner, Amy Durning and Kristie Macosko Krieger, Producers
Winner: OPPENHEIMER — Emma Thomas, Charles Roven and Christopher Nolan, Producers
PAST LIVES — David Hinojosa, Christine Vachon and Pamela Koffler, Producers
POOR THINGS — Ed Guiney, Andrew Lowe, Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone, Producers
THE ZONE OF INTEREST — James Wilson, Producer
PRODUCTION DESIGN
BARBIE — Production Design: Sarah Greenwood; Set Decoration: Katie Spencer
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON — Production Design: Jack Fisk; Set Decoration: Adam Willis
NAPOLEON — Production Design: Arthur Max; Set Decoration: Elli Griff
OPPENHEIMER — Production Design: Ruth De Jong; Set Decoration: Claire Kaufman
Winner: POOR THINGS — Production Design: James Price and Shona Heath; Set Decoration: Zsuzsa Mihalek
ANIMATED SHORT FILM
LETTER TO A PIG — Tal Kantor and Amit R. Gicelter
NINETY-FIVE SENSES — Jerusha Hess and Jared Hess
OUR UNIFORM — Yegane Moghaddam
PACHYDERME — Stéphanie Clément and Marc Rius
Winner: WAR IS OVER! INSPIRED BY THE MUSIC OF JOHN & YOKO — Dave Mullins and Brad Booker
LIVE ACTION SHORT FILM
THE AFTER — Misan Harriman and Nicky Bentham
INVINCIBLE — Vincent René-Lortie and Samuel Caron
KNIGHT OF FORTUNE — Lasse Lyskjær Noer and Christian Norlyk
RED, WHITE AND BLUE — Nazrin Choudhury and Sara McFarlane
Winner: THE WONDERFUL STORY OF HENRY SUGAR — Wes Anderson and Steven Rales
SOUND
THE CREATOR — Ian Voigt, Erik Aadahl, Ethan Van der Ryn, Tom Ozanich and Dean Zupancic
MAESTRO — Steven A. Morrow, Richard King, Jason Ruder, Tom Ozanich and Dean Zupancic
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – DEAD RECKONING PART ONE — Chris Munro, James H. Mather, Chris Burdon and Mark Taylor
OPPENHEIMER — Willie Burton, Richard King, Gary A. Rizzo and Kevin O’Connell
Winner: THE ZONE OF INTEREST — Tarn Willers and Johnnie Burn
VISUAL EFFECTS
THE CREATOR — Jay Cooper, Ian Comley, Andrew Roberts and Neil Corbould
Winner: GODZILLA MINUS ONE — Takashi Yamazaki, Kiyoko Shibuya, Masaki Takahashi and Tatsuji Nojima
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 3 — Stephane Ceretti, Alexis Wajsbrot, Guy Williams and Theo Bialek
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – DEAD RECKONING PART ONE — Alex Wuttke, Simone Coco, Jeff Sutherland and Neil Corbould
NAPOLEON — Charley Henley, Luc-Ewen Martin-Fenouillet, Simone Coco and Neil Corbould
WRITING (ADAPTED SCREENPLAY)
Winner: AMERICAN FICTION — Written for the screen by Cord Jefferson
BARBIE — Written by Greta Gerwig & Noah Baumbach
OPPENHEIMER — Written for the screen by Christopher Nolan
POOR THINGS — Screenplay by Tony McNamara
THE ZONE OF INTEREST — Written by Jonathan Glazer
WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY)
Winner: ANATOMY OF A FALL — Screenplay – Justine Triet and Arthur Harari
THE HOLDOVERS — Written by David Hemingson
MAESTRO — Written by Bradley Cooper & Josh Singer
MAY DECEMBER — Screenplay by Samy Burch; Story by Samy Burch & Alex Mechanik
PAST LIVES — Written by Celine Song
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
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.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Denzel Washington Broadway Comeback Set for Spring 2025
Denzel Washington is set to take on the lead role in a Broadway revival of 'Othello' scheduled for Spring 2025. We discuss it here!
Denzel Washington poses for the Oscar Nominee Luncheon on February 07, 2022 in Century City, CA.
Credit: DFree/Shutterstock
The legendary actor Denzel Washington will star in a revival of the Shakesperian theatrical play ‘Othella’ alongside ‘Road House (2024)’ actor Jake Gyllenhal. Spearheaded by Tony award winning director Kenny Leon, the production is set to open in Spring 2025 at the legendary Shubert Theatre in New York City.
The two time Academy Award winner, Washington, will portray Othello, a passionate war general who loses their sanity over jealousy. The role of Desdemona, Othello’s wife, has yet to be cast. Gyllenhal will star as Iago, Denzel’s main antagonist, who convinces Othello to question his wife's fidelity.
According to sources, the most recent Broadway production of Othello was in 1982 starring James Earl Jones as the lead.
Washington, a Tony Award Winner himself, is know stranger to Broadway. He starred in the 2010 production of Fences, which was later turned into a film and also earned a Tony Award nomination for his role as Thedore Hickman in the 2018 revival ‘The Iceman Cometh.’
Show Clip - Fences - "What About My Lif?"
The 69 year old made his Broadway debut in 1988 with Checkmates, he has also appeared in the 2014 revival of ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ and the 2005 production of ‘Julius Caesar.’
2025’s ‘Othello’ will be the first time the duo of Leon and Washington has worked together since ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ in 2014, where Leon won his Tony Award for Best Direction of a Play. The two previously collaborated on the 2010 production of Fences.
Ticket information is currently unavailable but fans can stay up to date by signing up for alerts at othellobway.com.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
American Black Film Festival Honors 2024 Celebrates the Finest in Black Hollywood
ABFF Honors acknowledged Taraji P. Henson, Mara Brock Akil, and others for their significant contributions to the culture. We discuss it here!
Taraji P. Henson poses on the carpet for the 2024 American Black Film Festival.
Credit: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images
The sixth annual American Black Film Festival Honors recognized (Mar. 3rd) actress Taraji P. Henson, screenwriter Mara Brock Ali, and others for their on-screen excellence and importance to Black culture. A week before the Oscars, the intimate, invitation-only event was held in Los Angeles and hosted key festival stakeholders and celebrated artists.
One of Black Hollywood’s most prestigious events, was hosted by comedic legend Tommy Davidson and executively produced by ABFF founders Nicole and Jeff Friday.
Actors Taraji P. Henson and Jeffrey Wright received the Excellence in the Arts Award for their distinguished career achievements. Garrett Morris was presented with the Hollywood Legacy Award, which is presented to a trailblazing artist whose work has inspired generations and made an enduring contribution to film and television.
American actor Kelvin Harrison Jr. took home the honor of this year’s Rising Star Award, while industry veteran Mara Brock Ali received the Industry Visionary Award for her outstanding work and commitment to championing diversity and equity in the film and television industry.
Cord Jefferson, the writer and director of “American Fiction”, was presented with the Movie of the Year Award. A category filled with stiff competition, other nominees included A.V. Rockwell’s “A Thousand And One”, Ava DuVernay’s “Origin”, Blitz Bazawule’s “The Color Purple”, Juel Taylor’s “They Cloned Tyrone” and Antoine Fuqua’s “The Equalizer 3”.
Presenters included Tyrese, Wendell Pierce, Lamorne Morris, Leslie Jones, Issa Rae, Gina Prince-Bythewood and David Oyelowo.
“For decades, these esteemed ABFF Honorees have elevated their projects, and brought joy to audiences across the world. It is our honor to recognize Garrett, Taraji, Jeffrey, Mara [and Kelvin] for all their contributions to culture and the industry throughout their remarkable careers.”
The ABFF Honors started in 2016 and is apart of the American Black Film Festival which was founded by Jeff Friday in 1997. Since its inception, ABFF has been one of the leaders in spotlighting Black storytelling. This year’s festival will take place June 12th through the 16th.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
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.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
‘Michael’ Biopic Unveils Star-Studded Cast
Michael biopic reveals star-studded cast. Find out who will play the Jackson 5, Joe and Katherine Jackson, and more! We discuss it here!
Michael Jackson arriving at a celebrity event in 1990.
Photo Credit: Vicki L. Miller
By: Josh Martin
One of the most storied journeys in pop culture history is finally getting the big screen treatment it righteously deserves. Directed by African American filmmaker Antoine Fuqua, (Training Day, The Equalizer series) the highly anticipated biopic will chronicle the famed life and legacy of the late great Michael Jackson. From his traumatic upbringing filled with childhood stardom, to his meteoric rise to global supremacy in the music industry. While also touching bases on his difficult adulthood tainted with perplexing sexual molestation allegations.
Unlike the many dramatized takes and non-fictional documentaries already in existence, the acclaimed director has the full support of the Jackson family and plans to fully bring the narrative alive.
The official statement reveals that the film will give audiences an in-depth portrayal of the complicated man who became the King of Pop.
“Michael will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became the King of Pop. The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale — from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, exemplified by his most iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look into one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.”
The first announced cast member Jaafar Jackson, nephew of the Thriller star, will star as his uncle and the most important role in the film.
“With Jaafar, every look, every note, every dance move is Michael. He embodies Michael in a way that no other actor could.”
Recently it was revealed that Colman Domingo will portray Michael’s father Joe Jackson with Nia Long standing alongside him as his wife Katherine Jackson.
Michael is set to release next spring on April 18, 2025.
View the confirmed cast listing for the film below:
Jaafar Jackson as Adult Michael Jackson
Colman Domingo As Joe Jackson
Nia Long As Katherine Jackson
Juliano Krue Valdi As Young Michael Jackson
Jayden Harville As Young Jermaine Jackson
Jamal R. Henderson As Adult Jermaine Jackson
Jaylen Lyndon Hunter As Younger Marlon Jackson
Judah Edwards As Young Tito Jackson
Rhyan Hill As Adult Tito Jackson
Nathaniel Logan McIntyre As Younger Jackie Jackson
Joseph David-Jones As Adult Jackie Jackson
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
Meet Sharmaine Johnson, Media Correspondent for 247 Live Culture!
Email: Sharmaine@247LCTV.com