Triumphant Unveiling of ‘Summer of Violence’ at Essence Fest 2023

Los Angeles, July 7, 2023–”Summer of Violence,” screened at the inaugural film festival of the 2023 ESSENCE Festival of Culture®. This profoundly moving coming-of-age narrative, marks the notable directorial debut of the talented actor and producer, Nicki Micheaux, known for her role in the acclaimed television series “Lincoln Heights.” Micheaux not only helmed the film, but also penned the script while studying in esteemed Sundance Collab classes. Micheaux also participated in the Disney Directing Program from 2010-2012 and believes that program gave her the knowledge to launch her first feature film. You can view the trailer for “Summer of Violence” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iExuKEhwL7o and visit summerofviolence.com to learn more about the film.

 

“It was an honor to have my directing debut screen at Essence Film Festival. Essence has always been a powerful voice for Black women, and it was a dream come true to be included as one of those many voices. From Vice President Kamala Harris to Oprah to Megan Thee Stallion and now me, it feels like I’ve arrived. Essence Festival is everything for the culture,” says Micheaux.

Distinguished actors Kasey Inez (The Sex Lives of College Girls), Jahking Guillory (The Chi), Pedro Correa (The Middle), Maduhlika Krishnan (F.U. Woody Allen), and Damon Gupton (Black Lightning) grace the screen, lending their exceptional talents to bring this poignant tale to life.

 

Set in 1993, “Summer of Violence,” is a coming-of-age love story set during a violent time and how hope can prevail. The story follows Naomi (Inez), a college graduate who feels the wrath of her father when she refuses law school to focus on her poetry. Disowned and affected by the violence around her, Naomi uses her poetry to speak out against the violence. Frank (Guillory) plays an artist with a shaky connection to the streets, and Naomi’s love interest. The film lifts up Black love, joy and family. Nicki Micheaux’s illustrious career boasts a number of great performances, most notably her portrayal of Jenn Sutton in the award-winning television series “Lincoln Heights” on ABC Family. Her versatility and passion have led her to forge a partnership with the best-selling author and global investor, Johnny Wimbrey. Together, they have created Three60 Films, a visionary media company committed to sharing authentic stories that resonate with the experiences of women and people of color.

 

The film is produced by Micheaux, Efuru Flowers (Slow Pulse), Sean Riggs (Lazarus), and Maureen P. Mottley (Snowpiercer). Executive Produced by Johnny Wimbrey, Brian Mitchell, Nicki Micheaux, Crystal Wimbrey, Psalms Wimbrey, Hannah Wimbrey, and Sonya Marchand. “Summer of Violence” emerges as a testament to the power of collaboration and the unyielding determination to shine a light on narratives that demand to be heard.

 

Photo credit: Synpes Murdock