FIRST WEEKEND FIELD TRIP

COVER opens nationwide on Friday February 22 including the AMC Loews and UA Riverview Theaters. Please visit www.coverthemovie.com for a complete listing of theaters showing this sexy thriller ripped from today's headlines.

What: First Weekend Field Trip for COVER
When: Saturday February 23 at 10:55AM
Where: AMC Loews Cherry Hill 24 - 2121 Route 38 (across from the Cherry Hill Mall)
Cost: $6:00 for movie/ $9.75 for meal (before tip).

It's very important quality African-American Films are supported in theaters--not on bootleg. To this end, Reelblack, Philly's #1 promoter of African-American Film invites you to the First Weekend Field Trip.

Pledge to attend the first show of COVER this Saturday (10:55 AM) at the AMC Loews Cherry Hill, then join us afterward at the EMPIRE BUFFET across RT 38 in the Cherry Hill Plaza next to Sam Ash Music (http://www.empirebuffetnj.com/) for a fun meal and discussion where one lucky guest will win a full-size COVER poster signed by Bill Duke and members of the cast.

COVER was filmed entirely in and around the City of Philadelphia. It boasts an amazing supporting cast, including Vivica A. Fox, Louis Gossett Jr., Tomorrow Montgomery, Roger Guenveur Smith, Patti LaBelle, Clayton Prince, Karen Vicks, Lenny Daniels and Sakinah Bingham.

It deals with a very controversial topic -- HIV and AIDS in the Black Community in an entertaining and provocative way--sure to cause discussion.

COVER is being released independently, without the huge marketing support of a major studio. Please do your part to spread the word about this great new movie and fun event.

Movie tickets can be purchased in advance through Fandango.com
http://www.fandango.com/amcloewscherryhill24_aaktm/theaterpage?date=2/23/2008

Be sure to tune into REELBLACK TV ON YOUTUBE this Friday for an exclusive segment featuring the stars and director of COVER during their recent stop in Philadelphia.

Chris Rock, Mo'nique Show Their Support For This Monday's Event

What: Philly Premiere of DARIUS GOES WEST and Muscular Dystrophy fundraiser.
When: Monday February 25 @7PM.
Where: International House, 3701 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19101
Cost: $7.00 Adults, $5.00 Reelblack Members, I House Members and Students.

Reelblack's event this Tuesday at international House is heating up. As you man know, we're hosting the Philadelphia Premiere of the documentary, DARIUS GOES WEST. Winner at 22 film festivals, DGW tells the story of Darius Weems, a 15 year old with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, who is taken by a group of friends on a cross-country trip to have his wheelchair pimped out by MTV. In the process they bond and raise awareness of this deadly disease.

What you may not be aware of is we'll be hosting a special $1 raffle to help find a cure for DMD. Many of your favorite celebrities have contributed signed items to be given away at the end of the night, including Mo'nique, Terrence Howard, Gabrielle Union and Harry Belafonte.

GRAND PRIZE of the night will include a pair of TICKETS TO SEE CHRIS ROCK LIVE AT THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC on 2/26.

Also, the first 20 people to purchase tickets will receive passes for two to attend a sneak preview of the new movie JUMPER, starring Hayden Christieansen and Samuel L. Jackson.

Please help us spread the word about this excellent movie, chosen FILM OF THE YEAR by Williamette Week (Portland, Ore) and this great event by forwarding this email to everyone you know...

DARIUS GOES WEST

A winner at over a dozen film festivals, featured on both Nightline and The Today Show and named by film Critic David Walker as "Film Of The Year," Reelblack is proud to host the Philly Premiere of this great new documentary on Tuesday, February 12 at International House, 37th and Chestnut Streets.

Darius Goes West (2007/Color/92 min./ DVD/ dir. Logan Smalley) Where would you go if you’d never been away from home? What would you do if you didn’t have much time left? DARIUS WENT WEST!

Meet 15-year-old Darius Weems from Athens, Georgia, who was born with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), the most common fatal genetic disorder to affect children worldwide. In 1999, he watched his beloved older brother, Mario, pass away from the same disease at age 19. Soon after, Darius lost use of the muscles in his legs and had to begin using a wheelchair.

A group of Darius’s college-age friends decided there was no need for his quality of life to disintegrate along with his muscles. In the summer of 2005, they rented a wheelchair-accessible RV and took Darius, who had never seen mountains, the ocean or even crossed a state line, on the adventure of a lifetime. The ultimate goal of their 7,000-mile cross-country journey was to reach Los Angeles and convince MTV’s hit show “Pimp My Ride” to customize Darius’s wheelchair. Along the way, they evaluated wheelchair accessibility in America, celebrated the 15th anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and raised awareness of DMD—particularly among a generation not familiar with Jerry Lewis. They also found joy, brotherhood and the knowledge that life, even when imperfect, is always worth the ride.

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WELCOME HOME ROSCOE JENKINS IN THEATERS NOW

Filmmaker Malcolm D. Lee's ensemble comedy WELCOME HOME, ROSCOE JENKINS starring Martin Lawrence opened at #2 in the US boxoffice with a take of $17 Million. This is in the range of his other solo hits like Blue Streak and National Security. Reelblack Season 5 Members had a chance to preview the film a month ago. The response was generally strong. It has all the signature Martin moves, with the exception of him playing multiple characters. If you are a fan of Martin or any of the co-stars this is definitely WORTH A LOOK.

Tune into Reelblack TV this Friday at 6PM on Comcast 54/DUTV for a very special interview with actress/comedienne Mo'nique, who was recently in town to promote WELCOME HOME ROSCOE JENKINS. Can't wait to hear what she said? Click here.

Also on Friday's episode: Natalie Stewart of Floetry and singer Jeffrey Osborne

ITVS FREE MOVIE AND DISCUSSION

What: The Philadelphia Premiere of IRON LADIES OF LIBERIA by Daniel Junge, Siatta Scott-Johnson, Henry Ansbacher and Jonathan Stack.

When: Wednesday, February 20th at 6:30PM

Where: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street, Independence Mall, 19106

Cost: Admission is Free. Reservations Required. Call 215-409-6700.

THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT. YOU MAY BE ABLE TO ATTEND AS A STAND-BY. CALL THE NUMBER ABOVE FOR DETAILS.

She’s already overcome tremendous obstacles to become the first woman ever elected president in Africa— now all she has to do is turn around Liberia -- a country devastated by unemployment, debt, corruption, and the legacy of civil war.

Follow Ellen Johnson Sirleaf through her first year in office as she faces angry mobs, ambitious pollrivals, and high-ranking members of the international community. Her story is inspiring a new generation of leaders in Africa and around the world.

Learn more about the film and other upcoming ITVS Community Cinema screenings at: http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/ironladies/index.html

This FREE Screening of Iron Ladies of Liberia is a co-presentation with National Constitution Center , Bread and Roses Community Fund ,
Committee of Seventy , Common Cause PA , Democracia , League of Women Voters of Philadelphia , Liberian United Women in Progress , PA Campus Compact , Philadelphia Quest for Freedom , Philadelphia Student Voices , Scribe Video Center , University of PA African Studies Center , WHYY

Discussion follows film about the history of Liberia and its current policy aimed at preventing a descent into civil war. Panel includes: Dr. Teta Banks, General Consul of Liberia

Discounted Parking is available for $7 at National Constitution Center garage located on Race Street between 5th and 6th Streets. Parking availability is subject to change

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STILL TIME TO SEE HONEYDRIPPER

If you have yet to do so, Reelblack encourages you to see Danny Glover and Charles S. Dutton in HONEYDRIPPER. In theateres--not on bootleg.
It's run at the Ritz 5 will end soon as the print will travel to another town. Check out Reelblack's exclusive interview with Honeydripper writer/director John Sayles here: http://youtube.com/user/reelblack

FIRST WEEKEND FIELD TRIP 2/23

Cover Opens at the Loews Cherry Hill On February 22. Join Us for a special movie and lunch Field Trip on the 23rd.

It's extremely important that Black Films be supported in theaters--not on bootleg, especially in their first weekend of release. Please join us the afternoon of Saturday February 23 for our FIRST WEEKEND FIELD TRIP in support of COVER. Bill Duke's latest film was shot in and around the City of Philadelphia and co-stars Vivica Fox. Our Friends in Atlanta at Urban Film Premiere recently hosted a red carpet screening and the response was resoundingly positive.

Pledge to attend the matinee screening at The AMC Loews Cherry Hill 24 and then join us for dinner at the Chinese Buffet across RT 38 for an afternoon of discussion and giveaways. Email Miked@reelblack.com if you are interested in attending.

AMERICAN GANGSTER ON DVD

AMERICAN GANGSTER, starring Oscar nominee Ruby Dee who will be released to DVD on Tuesday February 19 in a 2 disc special edition. You can check out Reelblack's exclusive interview with Ms. Dee here: http://youtube.com/user/reelblack

Why Did I Get Married hits DVD this Tuesday and is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

TIVO ALERT

Mark your calendars. A Raisin in the Sun" will air on February 25th at 8 pm on the ABC network. This new film premiered at this year's Sundance Film Festival and features the Original Cast from the recent Broadway Revival.

If you missed the special screening recently at The Pearl, Banished, the documentary by Marco Williams that explores American Ethnic Cleansings from the 1860s to the 1920s Will air February 19 on PBS at 10 PM. Visit http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/guide.html for details.

Kudos

Sheila and Mike at our Season 4 Membership Drive and Auction.

Congrats to Reelblack Supporter Sheila Bennett, who recently received a special Award from Davis Baptist Church for recognition of Church and Community service

DAVID E. TALBERT SHOWCASES HIS LATEST FILM FOR REELBLACK FANS

Recently, Reelblack Season Five Members were treated to a special advance screening of the new film, FIRST SUNDAY, starring Ice Cube, Tracy Morgan and Katt Williams.

Writer/Producer/Director DAVID E. TALBERT was on hand to introduce his film and participated in a Q&A and autograph session that lasted just under an hour.

(Not a member yet? There's still time to join. Visit http://reelblack.com/membership.htm for details).

Check out Reelblack TV's exclusive interview with award-winning playwright and filmmaker David E. Talbert (Fabric of a Man) by clicking the image above or going to http://youtube.com/profile?user=reelblack.

The response was virtually unanimous, FIRST SUNDAY is a solid caper comedy in the mold of 70s classics like Uptown Saturday Night and A Piece of the Action. If you are a fan of Ice Cube comedies like Friday, this is a return to form after the so-so kids movies he's been making. Tracy Morgan, Katt Williams and Rickey Smiley are also given time to shine. The movie has lots of big laughs.

Reelblack TV got a chance to film an exclusive interview with Mr. Talbert. An Image Award-winning playwright, this is his first foray into film. If you are familiar with his plays like Fabric of A Man or Mr. Right Now, you know he not only gets the details right, but he also strives to include a heartwarming message. The slapstick ads only tell half the story. First Friday is quality work that deserves your support.

First Friday Opens This Friday January 11 -- SEE IT IN THEATERS, NOT ON BOOTLEG.

REELBLACK MEMBERSHIPS ARE STILL AVAILABLE

Reelblack Season Five memberships truly are the gift that keeps on giving. From Priority Notification of free advance movie screenings to discounts at all our events, this is one of the best deals ever for your entertainment dollar.

Members have been treated to special FREE advance screenings to major motion pictures like DREAMGIRLS, THE LAST KING OF SCOTLAND, AMERICAN GANGSTER, THE GREAT DEBATERS and THE PERFECT HOLIDAY.

Members have had the opportunity to meet actress Kerry Washington at a special screening of I THINK I LOVE MY WIFE and interact with independent filmmakers responsible for the award-winning films PREMIUM, CONSTELLATION and WITH OR WITHOUT YOU at our flagship series REELBLACK PRESENTS.

Anyone in cyberspace can join and receive an exclusive MEMBERS ONLY BUTTON. However, those in the Philadelphia Tri-State area can take advantage of the following tangible benefits:

Membership Card and Buttons.

$2 Savings on all regular season shows at International House.

Priority access to free advance screenings (avg. 2 per month)

Discounts on Reelblack Merchandise and more.

Only $25.00 For A Full Season Of Benefits

To pay by credit card using secure server click button:

or to pay by check or money order, send a check or money order for $25 to:

Reelblack Inc

PO Box 12302

Philadelphia, PA 19119

Please make all checks payable to Reelblack. Be sure to include a note with your Full Name, Mailing Address, Phone Number and Email Address.

REELBLACK'S HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Stumped at what to give a friend or family member? REELBLACK RECOMMENDS 12 GREAT GIFTS FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON. Click here.

REELBLACK TV'S ROBERT X. GOLPHIN FEATURED IN NEW DENZEL FLICK

Congratulations to Philly's own Robert X. Golphin, who has a co-starring role in the new Oprah produced/Denzel directed film, THE GREAT DEBATERS.

Robert's had a tremendous year, he also released his debut novel, ABANDONING ADAM and has written and starred in another short film, which will be competed early next year.

Please visit Robert's website, www.robertxgolphin.com for exclusive photos taken at last week's Red Carpet Premiere in L.A. The Great Debaters Opens everywhere on Christmas Day. Visit http://youtube.com/watch?v=-D4vdds7DF8 to see our exclusive interview with Mr. Golphin.

I AM LEGEND IS WILL'S BIGGEST OPENING YET

THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO MADE OUR LAST EVENT A TREMENDOUS SUCCESS

REELBLACK MEMBERS TREATED TO A PEEK OF AMERICAN GANGSTER

REELBLACK MEMBERS TREATED TO A PEEK OF AMERICAN GANGSTER

Packed at the Pearl.

Giveaways were provided by Codeblack Entertainment

Mike D. On TV

Free Reelblack Movie Clips

To order any of our DVDs, visit our store or email miked@reelblack.com

Through the magic of Vmix.com, we're now able to post video samples from some of the short films included in the Reelblack Motion Picture Manifesto DVD. So please, take a look. Currently available for free viewing are The Story of Breakout, Jazzyfatnastees in Progress and Next Tuesday.

Click here to visit our page at Vmix.com

Do you want more? Visit Our News Archive for a list of past news, reviews and interviews.