Whiskey has been in more movies than Samuel L. Jackson (barely), and for the past few years, Gentleman Jack has been using some of its Hollywood clout to shine a light on the next generation of talented African American filmmakers at the Gentleman Jack Real to Reel film competition.
Representation Matters
Creating a space where up-and-coming African American filmmakers can find recognition is a big part of this competition, and one of the reasons it is so important to us at Breakthru and our partners at Gentleman Jack. In a recent statement, the company’s Associate Brand Manager, Ben Osei, elaborated on the competition’s position.
"We're excited to continue our work to help forge a way for multicultural filmmakers as the issue around diverse representation among movie producers and directors continues to be a topic of discussion," Osei said. He added, "We look forward to seeing the creative projects and talented people coming through this year's Gentleman Jack Real to Reel program and national contest."
Multi-talented filmmaker Omari Hardwick, most recently seen in Sorry to Bother You, is thrilled to be a part of the conversation, saying in a recent statement, "Gentleman Jack's Real to Reel program continues to help build diversity in Hollywood. I'm proud to continue this partnership to help open doors for new talent in Black cinema."
Reaching Consumers
The Real to Reel competition will be hitting the road this summer, visiting six cities across the country, showcasing local talent and hosting panel discussions with industry experts. In addition, this year’s competition will also include a sweepstakes, with only lucky entrant winning $500 and a trip for two to New York to attend a private watch party, hosted by Omari Hardwick himself, to view the final season of Hardwick’s latest show, POWER. Consumers, 21 and over, can enter the "Watch Party with Omari Hardwick" now through May 31, 2019 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Tell your customers they can enter by texting GJWATCH to 68405 during the sweepstakes period, or online at JackDaniels.com/WatchParty.
Filmmaker Damien Smith, creator of 2018’s winning film, Daddy's Big Girl, will be highlighted during the 2019 Real to Reel program, along with his film.
"Through Real to Reel, Gentleman Jack has created an important platform for me and other filmmakers to make our dreams become reality," Smith said in a statement. "I'm grateful for the opportunity and the resources Gentleman Jack and Codeblack Entertainment have provided to help support my career and take it to the next level."