BBR INDIE FILMS IS IDEALLY ONE OF ATLANTA'S PREMIER FILM SCREENING MIXERS ON THE RISE 

BBR Indie Films is a bi-monthly movie screening and networking mixer for independent filmmakers. This month's event featured screenings of short films, trailers, student films, web series and by independent filmmakers. An in-depth panel discussion sparked conversations providing surreal opportunities for industry professionals to engage with a pre-destined community of like-minded individuals seeking similar production paths. The first of its kind event provided pathways for filmmakers to learn from the best in the business, attain feedback on their work and network with key players.
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​An evening of immeasurable kinships set the tone for the first of many recurring film mixers hosted BBR Indie Films opened its doors to a sold-out audience on November 1st at Studio Movie Grille in Marietta, GA. The theater setting provided a quaint, yet sheik ambiance. Industry professionals, media correspondents and film makers were greeting with a welcoming embrace. Media correspondent Lori Hanford captivated onlookers amongst the official BBR Media backdrop while conducting on-camera interviews.  Presentations were on par. The energy amongst attendees and spectators amassed an equal exchange. Organizers of the movie screening and networking mixer were met with an invaluable experience!
 
Founder, Oleathia “Butta B-Rocka Robinson is a multi-faceted executive film producer, director, screenwriter, Sag-eligible actress and international chart-topping recording artist/songwriter. CEO and founder of BBR Media Group, her feature film "Finding the Perfect Guy" has taken streams services like Amazon Prime, Tubi and Plex by storm.

PANELISTS: 

Nakia Dillard is a noted producer, actor, coach and author with an extensive resume. He can be seen on the critically acclaimed reboot of The Wonder Years, The Wire, Black Lightening and BMF. Dillard is also the proud owner of Aikan Acts and has worked as a coach for Idris Elba.

Rory Walker is CEO and founder of VividRich HQ. A cutting-edge, all-inclusive 80k square foot film campus accredited Production Studio. Equipped with two locations, its 80k square footage studio has been accredited with staging renowned music videos, reality television shows and the BET Awards as well. Rory has had the privilege of writing and producing promos/trailers for NBC hits like New Amsterdam, The Voice, AGT Perfect Harmony and Grand Crew. That's in addition to spearheading notably, what is known as the third largest film production studio in Atlanta. All are encouraged to book a tour. 
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Actor, director and writer Brian Beegle is one of the top leading casting directors based in Atlanta, GA. Having casted nearly fifteen hundred commercials, television and film projects over a span of fifteen years and serves as an acting coach. As an actor, he is known for “We Are Marshall.” Beagle shares best advice for actors advising "when you come out of an audition, don't worry about whether you got booked. Instead, focus on what you can do better."

Music Supervisor Andrew Weaver is the co-founder of Triple Threat, a full-service music supervision company providing expertise in creative music supervision, soundtrack production, music clearance and licensing. Proudly serving Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Austin, New Orleans, London and more. The co-founder treks from Nashville to Atlanta in light of deeming projects.

FILM MAKERS:
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“With Salt” -
Phyllis Toben Bancroft is a director, producer, and writer. She was the Supervising Director for the Emmy-nominated web-series, “Send Me,” winner of the BET Lens on Talent and director of the award-winning short film 'Burned.' Very personable with her interactions, much like her approach to new relationships. Based on a true story, 'With Salt' hits home says Phyllis. Opening up about it in this capacity purely addresses issues that are often unspoken.

“Complexity” 
Brandon Leake is a director, writer, and season 15 winner of America's Got Talent, 3x Telly Award Winner, 1x SOVAS Award Winner, and 1x Emmy Award Winning Poet and Writer.  This was truly a remarkable production. However, Leake insists, "writing and directing was hard as hell." 

“Everybody Hates Kyle” 
Warren Abercrombie is an actor, writer, producer, director, and TikTok influencer.  What we learned about this hilarious production is that it allowed Warren to see himself in another light. "I didn’t realize how much he resembled the character he created for the film, until after it came to life."

“Service For the King”
Ashante “PT the Gospel Spitter Stokes is a producer, director, writer, actor, and gospel artist. He has won 12 film awards in multiple film festivals and 6 nominations. His film features some heavy hitters including Emcee Nice, a rapper and actor who won the Rap Hip-Hop Gospel CD of the Year and Gospel Hip Hop Radio Station of the Year at the 34th Annual Stellar Awards and has five top #1 songs on the Billboard charts.

“The Secret War” 
Eddie “G” Goree is an award-winning producer, director, and writer. In just a short time, we learned what an astonishing level of work Eddie G brings forth in multiple facets. It speaks volumes and most certainly matches his energy in real time.

“MBAM”
Bobby Huntley is a director, producer, writer, and editor. He has toured around the world, showcasing his numerous award-winning projects. His latest film he directed “The Pass” written by Kandi Burruss and husband Todd Todd can be seen on Peacock. Bobby left the audience with a bit of advice in quoting,” it’s all about community and collaboration.”

“Finding the Perfect Guy” 
Butta B-Rocka is an executive producer, director, writer, actor, and international top charting recording artist. Her feature film “Finding the Perfect Guy” is streaming on 13 platforms in 2 months of its release.  According to Butta B-Rock, “it’s hard to be in front of the camera and behind the camera. It’s tough! It was a lot to process. So, I’m ready for the next one.”

Amongst the intriguing atmosphere were a host of special guests in attendance. Namely, Aaron Johnson, a multi-award-winning filmmaker, Cappriccieo Scates, a noted UN Ambassador and Executive Music Mogul, actor and voiceover talent Tobias Armand featured in Black Panther as well as national recording artist, actor and social media influencer Robert Hampton commonly known as LaTruth.

If you or someone you know seeks to embark upon productions endeavors as an indie film make or industry professional. You'll want to take note of BBR Indie Films website and social media handles. This could be the perfect place to start. Click the link below to learn more about upcoming events! 

​Photo credits: Felton Langlois @StudioSharpImages

I AM M.A.R.S. an independent Hip Hop artist/producer/brand from New Orleans, La. My moniker M.A.R.S. is an acronym that stands for Money Always Requires Sacrifice. Creating music is my passion and always has been since I was 11 years of age. Through many of the hardships I’ve experienced in life, writing rap songs was my therapy. My aspiration is for others to be able to use my music as inspiration to overcome whatever they may be going through. Heart of a King available now everywhere digitally!​

Seasoned South Carolina DJ "Smoov Beatz" celebrates a recent win, catapulting Southern Soul party mixes to new heights. Youtube fans are raving about the impeccable playlist recently orchestrated amid the release of his 'Southern Soul Party Vol 2.'  The trailblazing track list was comprised of Southern Soul and Soul Blues' top artists and YouTube songs. Strategically positioning sounds by King George, CoCo Wade, Tucka, Pokey, Karen Wolfe, Jeff Floyd, Lebrado and more; fans worldwide are applauding its groovy host of feel good music. Grown folks of the urban eclectic genre tend to cling to playlists like it. Whether at concerts, festival, clubs, venues, trail rides or backyard gatherings; they want to hear it. 

In a matter of six months, DJ Smoov Beatz 'Southern Soul Party Vol 2,' captured the attention of more than 16,000 subscribers and upwards of 1.2 million views.  Still hailing high, the popular mix is on course to reach at least 2 million views by summer.  Now with the recent release of an all-new playlist, he's feeding loyal listeners and fans a slew of hit songs and dance worthy vibes all day er'day!

As musically inclined as one could be, DJ Smoov Beatz follows the footsteps of his grandfather, a noted musician of multiple talents having perfected his craft with many instruments. He's certainly no stranger when it comes to entertaining. His passion for playing drums since the age of three, has a lot to do with  the way in which he connects with a drum kit, as the heartbeat of a song's melody.  

According to the renowned talent, there's more coming our way.  He's on track to take the industry by storm.  Whether on-air, on YouTube or on-the-scene mixing your favorite party tunes, he's likely to grace your presence. Be sure to check out Southern Soul Party Volumes 1, 2 and 3 on YouTube!

During the Q&A, Pap Chanel spoke candidly about her small-town upbringing in Milledgeville and how it influenced her music. She shared personal stories about the challenges she faced as a female rapper and how she's overcome them to become one of the most exciting and dynamic rappers on the scene today. She also spoke about her inspirations, citing the female artists who have inspired her along the way. VIPs at the event were treated to exquisite cocktails by Belaire and Bomade Vodka, paired with delicious light bites from the renowned Taranga City. The atmosphere was positive, and the energy in the room was palpable as guests eagerly anticipated the debut of PAPtivites.

In conclusion, Pap Chanel's listening party for PAPtivites was a night to remember. The party was the talk of the town, with guests leaving with a better sense of the artist and excitement that Pap Chanel brought to the event. With her signature style, raw talent, and infectious energy, it's no wonder that Pap Chanel is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after rappers in the game. We can't wait to see what she has in store next!

For information on upcoming events, follow the network on Instagram @papchanel @defjam @4thandbroadway @routerunna804 @mediagirlsnetwork​

Exxpose Magazine's editor-in-chief CoCo Wade, known for presenting peculiar questions, evoking an ah ha reaction; proceeds to ask Tray Chaney, what would he consider to have been an "oops" moment along his journey? With a keen eye, he responds, in saying "it's overthinking." "You know a lot of times people can overthink themselves out of a job. You can overthink so much about what you're supposed to say on paper and how you're supposed to look. But at the end of the day, if you approach auditions as just being yourself, you'll stand a better chance. It took me a long time to realize that." CoCo asks, "what is the one thing you want everyone to know about you?" Chaney explains, "I'm stepping into the role of executive producer. I'm currently executive producing my own project titled The Naughty Christmas. It was formally called Thanksgiving Roast as it was the sequel to the comedy I did. I'll be gone for about a month and a half filming. Just playing another role as executive producer, getting people involved. Those whom I want to be cast for the film. Just putting the production together as a whole. Even with financing. I've been doing a lot of big business with Chaney Vision Entertainment here lately. I definitely want to shout out my partner Brett Rosen, RB Capital Partners Inc and Sean. All of my guys in Orlando, including James Hunter." "I'm playing different roles, so Tubi is pretty much my best friend right now. I have a bunch of projects running simultaneously. "Out on a lim" as well as "Till my casket drops" and of course, "Undeniable: The Tray Chaney Story," my documentary are all on Tubi. The documentary is a 45-minute piece. It mostly speaks about how my journey unfolds. Pretty much everything I'm talking to Exxpose Magazine about plays out in that 45-minute piece. So yes, my hands are in a lot of specific things right now. Things that will give me joy to work with. It's like a moment of pivoting. Being cast on all of these different projects, working with the networks, and even on Starz. I manifested being cast on lifetime. It has a lot to do with remaining consistent at whatever it is I'm doing. I'm truly about that. After working on set of “The Wire” I’m in a position where now, I'm taking everything I've learned and am applying it to what I'm doing with Chaney Vision Entertainment. At this point, I’m already directing and producing my own content. New roles for me include executive level aspects, whether it's securing finances, casting actors and actresses whereas I’m able to give talents a chance to be apart of something I’ve put together, I'm doing it all. It’s definitely a pivotal moment in my career. I'm a working actor and am expanding in various areas of music, film and television. That's in addition to exploring the executive side of things.

And then of course my guest appearance on Starz "BMF" Season 2, shout out to Fifty Cent. Shout out to everybody over there Big Meech, Lil Meech, the whole BMF family. They really just kind of welcomed me into the family. By playing the role of "Bleek", everyone will see why my character is so important to their story. It's definitely going to be a good run with BMF. I can't wait. I've recently worked with Keyshia Cole on her biopic. Just being able to really connect with her and her powerful story. Both men and women are going to be able to relate and see how she's overcome certain things in her life. I mean, that was big. As a result of participation and my role, I'm officially a part of the Lifetime Television family. So I'm ready, I'm just ready! "Omission" is another film I'm excited about. Starring as Calvin, my role gave me an opportunity to work with some of my favorites. Detroit has become like a second home. My guys are doing a lot of great films. I'm a producer on this project as well. "Omission" is going to present an awesome relationship story about different couples enduring certain trials and tribulations. I'm blessed to be in a position to use my gifts in this capacity. As I've maintained over time, music has always been a staple in my career. One of the more recent songs I wrote, which gained the attention of about two million viewers is "You Know the Feeling" produced by @cr_da_show. Shot and edited by @iamDonJuan, the video features myself and my home girl, actress Abira Greene most known for the Lifetime series "Little Women of Atlanta." Almost immediately, the video went viral. We did a behind the scenes type thing with myself and Abira, just having fun, being ourselves. Unbeknownst to us, it reached it would reach over two million hits on Facebook. Since then, MTV has picked it up." Make no mistake about it, Tray Chaney is creating a legacy, leaving no one behind. The family dynamic takes priority over everything. Seeing as though Chaney sits in confidence and poise during the exclusive interview, as dapper and in style as one could be, the editor-in-chief posed a question everyone whose anyone would want to know. Tell us about your look, whose the celebrity designer? Shockingly, Tray replies, I've been married to my beautiful wife for over 18 years. We have two amazing kids and one grandchild. My wife is also my stylist. I've watched her in our office at home, custom design pieces from scratch. From apparel to accessories, you name it, she can do it. The custom look I'm wearing on the cover of Exxpose Magazine, the high-fashion look I'll be seen wearing on Keyshia Cole's biopic and countless other threads; all were hand crafted by my wife "Ayesha Crafty Hands Chaney." ​

Time and time again, Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club takes center stage. Since its first Mardi Gras Appearance in 1909, the organization has been the highlight of countless televised appearances, documentaries, news and media spectaculars worldwide.

Of course, New Orleans has its vast share of traditions but this one takes the cake. Amid an unscripted encounter, in high pursuit of king cakes Exxpose Magazine's editor-in-chief CoCo Wade touched down at Rouses in Metairie only to find an enlightening duo of eclectic, yet artsy Zulu Tramps. Rooted in the foundation of its organization, Zulu Tramps have always been known to greet the people with an ever-so-friendly approach of groundedness. 

CoCo Wade embarked upon the opportunity to mingle with Zulu Tramps "Everywhere" and "Congo" while engaging with Rouse's shoppers, also intrigued by the two men of stature.

Although day-to-day shopping may appear normal in many regions, only in New Orleans can you walk in to a grocery store, while indulging in Mardi Gras greetings, serenaded by a Brass Band will you embrace a journey you won't soon forget. Nothing's predictable during Carnival time, nothing's too serious, and nothing is to be taken for granted. We New Orleanians' enjoy every moment, count our blessings, savor the flavor and keep trotting along. That's why they call it "The Big Easy."

The 2023 Zulu Coronation Ball is notably one of the most sought after events of New Orleans' Mardi Gras Season. It's festivities are set to unfold tonight, February 17th in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. If you're fortunate to position yourself amidst the happenings, you may as well dress to impress!

Mardi Gras day will set the tone for the moment we've all been waiting for, the highly anticipated Zulu Parade set to roll on Fat Tuesday, February 21st at 8am. So, don't miss it y'all. As we often say, Laissez les bon temps rouler (Let the good times roll)!

History was made in a room filled with black excellence orchestrated by Leading Men of Film and Television creator Kevin Savage along with co-producer and co-partner Michelle Taylor Willis at Atlantucky Brewing in Georgia. The evening was met with live performances and champagne as to set the stage for an impeccable experience throughout. Panelists included Rico Ball, Julian Brittano, Tray Chaney and of course Kevin Savage. Exxpose Magazine had the privilege of covering the electrifying red carpet hosted by renowned journalist Summer Jackson.

The intriguing event brought forth a panel stacked with four of Atlanta’s top working men in film. Equally, they possess a wealth of knowledge and familiar struggle amid their plight to stardom.  Having landed a plethora of prominent roles in film, the actors stand together while conveying a strong message. An intense outpouring of surreal truths between the four, established an atmosphere privy to information exclusively defined at the Savage Brand Enterprises insightful spectacular. Upon introducing themselves, collectively in agreement, the Leading Men of Film and Television wholeheartedly encouraged groundbreaking and aspiring actors to understand, beyond a shadow of a doubt, regardless of how many auditions you do, “you only need one yes.”  The right yes!

The main take-a-way as it relates to this extraordinary panel is that actors must dig deep in order to understand "the why." This is in a united effort to prepare fellow actors and peers, there will likely be dark days ahead. Panelists pointed out the fact that, in order to pursue something you truly believe in, one has to have the ability to keep going. In doing so, you must first gain clarity of your "why."

A slew of life-changing insights evolved from the panel, but of all the highly recommended best practices for promising careers amongst the film industry, actor Rico Ball says talents should “find alliances to get involved with like a group or a click.” Perhaps connections like these will increase your chances. It’s gems like this that set off the atmosphere and makes Leading Men of Film and Television exclusive. Actor Tray Chaney insists, “don’t sleep on nobody.” You never know whose next to blow.  Actor, model and artist Kevin Savage wants everyone to reflect on the fact that “your dreams aren’t for you, they are for other people.” Here’s one for the books, contrary to what some may say, actor Julian Brittano strongly encourages pioneering talents to “start by doing some background work.” He knows all too well, that getting experience on set can potentially provide a host of surprising opportunities like learning important behind the scenes aspects of the film industry and quite possibly being casted or upgraded from a background extra to a speaking role in an instant. Hats off to the Leading Men of Film and Television. They have unselfishly extended priceless rules of engagement for any and everyone seeking to level up their career amid the film industry. You absolutely had to have been there to understand what ignited the room and what intrigued those who left in awe. What a remarkable night in Atlanta amongst the astonishing scenery at Atlantucky Brewing.

The event commenced with a memorable awards presentation of crystal type plaques to participating panelists as well as the eloquent and talented Michelle Taylor Willis.

Exxpose Magazine founder and editor-in-chief CoCo Wade captures moments with Leading Men of Film and Television co-producer and co-partner Michelle Taylor Willis as well, actor Tray Chaney noted for his renowned roles in The Wire, Saints and Sinners along with several other hit productions.

BARAKA, is DMJ's annual event known amongst creatives Nationwide. Celebrating its 4th edition, this one of a kind production was first experienced in 2013 on the campus of the infamous Louisiana State University. Birth from the desire to bring different cultures, art and talent from the four corners of the Globe, together under one roof.  On October 8, 2022 Baraka will set the stage for its Las Vegas art and fashion savvy nightlife ambiance at Sin City Seadood. Haute couture , high fashion runways, art exhibits and live music performances will ignite the evening spearheaded by CEO Derrick M of DMJ Management. FREE ADMISSION!!