Sony Classics’ movie, “We Grown Now,” featuring remarkable performances by Jurnee Smollett, Lil Rel Howery, and S. Epatha Merkerson, has secured the ‘Jury Best Feature Narrative’ Award at the recent Pan African Film Festival.
Directed by the exceptional Minhal Baig, “We Grown Now” is a compelling coming-of-age drama that delves into the intricacies of family and identity and the progression from adolescence to adulthood within the Cabrini Green Homes in Chicago, IL. The movie features an ensemble cast, with the comedic genius of Lil Rel, the mesmerizing Jurnee Smollett, and the esteemed S. Epatha Merkerson in the lead roles. Alongside these seasoned actors are the breakout young talents Blake Cameron James and Gian Knight Ramirez, who deliver authentic and heartrending performances.
The 2024 Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) concluded its highly anticipated showcase of African and African diaspora cinema and arts with a standing-room-only awards ceremony brunch, honoring exceptional filmmakers who captivated audiences this year with their creative vision and storytelling prowess.
Held at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, the awards ceremony celebrated diversity, talent, and cultural richness, reflecting the festival’s commitment to promoting African heritage and narratives globally.
Among the afternoon’s highlights was the presentation of the coveted Filmmaker Awards in various categories, recognizing excellence in filmmaking across genres. From compelling narratives to groundbreaking documentaries, the winning films stood out for their artistic merit, social relevance, and profound impact on PAFF’s audiences.
Set in 1992, “We Grown Now” tells the riveting story of two young legends in their own right, best friends Malik and Eric, who traverse Chicago, looking to escape the mundaneness of school and the hardships of growing up in public housing. Their unbreakable bond is challenged when tragedy shakes their community, just as they learn to fly. Stars Jurnee Smollett, S. Epatha Merkerson, Blake Cameron James, Gian Ramirez, and Lil Rel Howery.
WE GROWN NOW releases April 19th in NY and LA and wide May 10th.
