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Houston Comedy Film Festival 2024 Recap

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The Houston Comedy Film Festival Fall 2024 was a resounding success, attracting filmmakers and comedy enthusiasts worldwide for its 15th consecutive year. The event showcased an impressive array of comedic films, provided valuable networking opportunities, and celebrated excellence across various sub-genres.

Credit: D-Shot Productions | Fall 2024 Houston Comedy Film Festival

The festival kicked off with an engaging acting workshop that set the tone for the days to come. Participants were treated to a hilarious skit performed by festival winners, demonstrating the exceptional talent present. This interactive start energized attendees and created a lively atmosphere that persisted throughout the festival.

Credit: D-Shot Productions

Notable highlights included inspiring sessions, such as The Newbie Film Academy led by industry veteran Joan Montreuil. Joan captivated the audience with her inspiring journey in the film world, sharing personal anecdotes and hard-earned wisdom. Her insights into the often-complex film distribution process were particularly valuable, offering aspiring filmmakers a roadmap to navigate this crucial aspect of the industry.

DD’s Showbiz and The now offering curriculum for filmmakers with the Houston Comedy Film Festival and Bolanle Media

 

Delores from DD’s Showbiz conducted an interactive workshop that proved to be both educational and entertaining. Participants gained hands-on experience in various aspects of filmmaking, from scriptwriting to directing. This practical approach allowed attendees to learn directly from an industry professional, enhancing their skills and understanding of the craft.

Festival Winner Hannah Rose Vernot and Director Roselyn Omaka

The festival celebrated excellence across a wide range of comedy sub-genres, with notable winners including:
  • Best Animated Comedy Film: “Truth Detector” by William Reliford (Nebraska)
  • Best Comedy Film: “French Anglais: Escape Deux Sudbury” by Joel Edmiston & Conrad Osei-Bonsu (Canada)

  • Best Comedy Micro Film: “ChatGPT Boy Meets Girl” by Simeon Williams (Texas)
  • Best Comedy Series Episode: “Feet On The Street with Alyssa Poteet” by Jessie Sanchez (California)
  • Best Comedy Short Screenplay: “The Paranormal Prankster: Casefile 002 – Probing Aliens” by Sean Whitley (Texas)
  • Best Comedy Teleplay: “Summer’s Holes” by Emily Hyde (Florida)

Credit: D-Shot Productions

  • Best Dark Comedy Feature Screenplay: “The Infinity Thieves” by TK Sheffield (Wisconsin)
  • Best Dark Comedy Film: “Hitch Hiking Is Safe” by Ylia Trotter (Australia)
  • Best Dark Comedy Micro Film: “A Bit Much” by Youssef Mutawe (Canada)
  • Best Dark Comedy Screenplay: “Bloodbath And Berets (South Park Spec)” by Elizabeth Crane (Florida)
  • Best Director: “God Be With Us,” directed by JaNarie Rhambo (California)
  • Best Horror Comedy Film: “Sock It To Me,” directed by Joelle Marie Velez and Peter Anthony Castillo (Illinois)
  • Best Horror Comedy Screenplay: “Another Night at Beaver’s,” written by Jeremy Sumrall (Texas)

Joell Edminson and Ben S- Festival Winners for ‘French Anglais: Escape Deux Sudbury’

  • Best Mockumentary Film: “Profiles Of Remarkable Neophytes,” directed by Gavin Michael Booth (California)
  • Best Mockumentary Micro Film: “Cinching Saddles,” directed by Kevin Sengara and Aman Pannu (Canada)
  • Best Picture Award: “Enjoy Your Evening,” directed by Justin Norman (Iowa)
  • Best Proof of Concept Award: “Up To Par,” directed by Daryl Gil and Kentrell Newton (California)

Festival Winner Emily Hyde and Director Roselyn Omaka

  • Best Romantic Comedy Feature Screenplay: “MIC CHECK; KARAOKE LOVE,” written by Gregory Bonds (California)
  • Best Romantic Comedy Micro Film: “The Trade,” directed by Ren Olivieri and David Kalinauskas (Canada)
  • Best Sketch Comedy Film: “Joan & Samuel: A Tale of Gaslighting and Independence,” directed by Karissa McKinny (California)
  • Best Stand-Up Comedy Video: “I Love Watching Movies But Hate When The Titles Are So Misleading!” directed by Jonathan Yates (North Carolina)
  • Best Teleplay Award Winner: “Stocktonian Exchange – Kill Your Spirits,” written by Hannah Rose Vernot (California)

Filmmaker Kris Adams and DD’s Showbiz owner Deloris

Bolanle Media’s presence at the festival provided a valuable resource for attendees, offering access to industry connections and potential distribution channels. As a new media company sparking buzz within the filmmaking world, Bolanle Media focuses on generating excitement through social media and press interviews with filmmakers, directors, screenwriters and behind-the-scenes crew members. Their innovative marketing strategies help amplify voices in the industry, ensuring that emerging talents gain recognition without needing to relocate to Hollywood.

Credit: D-Shot Productions | Screenwriter Tom Renville and Director Roselyn Omaka

 

This partnership with Bolanle Media enhanced the festival experience, particularly for filmmakers looking to break into the industry. The event’s success was further evidenced by the diverse range of countries represented, including Canada, Australia, and various states across the US. This international flavor contributed to a rich exchange of ideas and cultural perspectives in comedy filmmaking.
Overall, the Houston Comedy Film Festival Fall 2024 proved to be more than just a screening event. It served as a vibrant hub for comedy in all its forms, from slapstick to dark humor, providing a platform for both emerging talents and established names in the industry. The festival’s commitment to fostering creativity, facilitating networking, and recognizing excellence has solidified its position as a key event in the comedy film calendar.

Credit: D-Shot Productions

The festival’s ability to bring together industry professionals, filmmakers, and comedy enthusiasts from around the globe has made it a standout event in the entertainment industry. As the Houston Comedy Film Festival continues to grow and evolve, it remains a premier platform for showcasing comedic talent and promoting innovative storytelling.

Credit: D-Shot Productions

With its impressive lineup of films, engaging workshops, and valuable networking opportunities, the Houston Comedy Film Festival Fall 2024 has set the bar high for future events. As the comedy film community looks forward to next year’s festival, one thing is certain – the Houston Comedy Film Festival will continue to be a driving force in promoting comedic excellence and celebrating the art of comedy filmmaking.
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Chris Brown Arrested in UK Over 2023 Nightclub Assault Allegation

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London, UK – May 2025:
International R&B star Chris Brown was arrested by UK authorities this week in connection with an alleged assault that took place at a London nightclub in 2023.

According to police reports, Brown, 36, was detained on suspicion of assault with a weapon after a man claimed the singer struck him with a tequila bottle during a heated altercation at a popular Soho venue. The incident reportedly occurred after one of Brown’s performances in the city last year.

Brown, who was in the UK for a series of concerts, was taken into custody at Heathrow Airport as he prepared to board a private flight back to the United States. He was questioned by detectives and later released on bail pending further investigation.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed:
“A man in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of assault following an incident at a nightclub in February 2023. He has been released under investigation while inquiries continue.”

Chris Brown’s representatives have not issued an official statement regarding the arrest. The alleged victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, is said to have received medical attention for minor injuries and is cooperating with authorities.

Brown, who has a history of legal troubles, including a 2009 conviction for assaulting singer Rihanna, has continued to maintain a strong presence in the music industry. This latest incident has reignited discussions about celebrity accountability and the importance of addressing violence in nightlife settings.

The investigation is ongoing, and further updates are expected as the case develops.

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For more information and updates on this story, stay tuned to official news sources.

Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

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Tory Lanez’s Team Blames Kelsey Harris in Megan Thee Stallion Shooting, Seeks Retrial

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Tory Lanez’s legal team has reignited controversy in the high-profile Megan Thee Stallion shooting case, unveiling new evidence that they claim exonerates the rapper and instead points to Megan’s former friend, Kelsey Harris, as the shooter.

At a press conference in Los Angeles on Wednesday, Lanez’s attorneys, supported by the nonprofit group Unite the People, presented statements from Bradley James, who served as Harris’s driver and bodyguard during the trial. According to Lanez’s legal advisor Walter Roberts, James claims to have overheard Harris confess to firing the shots that injured Megan Thee Stallion in July 2020. Roberts asserted, Mr. James informed Unite the People that he was a witness to the conversation Ms. Harris had where she stated she had the gun. She fired it three times. Mr. Peterson [Lanez] grabbed her arm, knocked it down and the gun fired two more times. In essence, Mr. Peterson never shot anybody”.

Lanez, whose real name is Daystar Peterson, is currently serving a 10-year sentence following his 2023 conviction for the shooting. His legal team maintains that he was denied a fair trial, citing alleged bias and media pressure, and is now calling on California Governor Gavin Newsom to issue a pardon or commute his sentence.

The new claims have drawn swift responses. Megan Thee Stallion’s attorney, Alex Spiro, released a statement emphasizing that Lanez was “tried and convicted by a jury of his peers” and that the case was “appropriately handled through the judicial system.” Megan herself has previously rejected any suggestion that Harris was the shooter, stating, “Kelsey didn’t shoot me. I know who shot me, and that’s why he’s in jail”.

The controversy comes as Lanez recovers from a violent stabbing incident in prison, where he was attacked and hospitalized earlier this week. Meanwhile, neither Harris nor Megan Thee Stallion has issued a direct response to the latest allegations from Lanez’s team.

With Lanez’s legal team pushing for a retrial and a possible pardon, the case continues to generate debate and divide public opinion as new evidence and testimonies emerge.

Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

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Diva Through Time: Who Is LaDawn Taylor?

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LaDawn Taylor is a performing artist, a creative visionary director, and a powerhouse champion for diversity and inclusion in entertainment. She’s not just building platforms for herself-she’s opening doors for other powerhouse divas who represent the world’s rich tapestry of cultures.

“I’m a creator that thinks out of the box and I believe in giving people an opportunity to shine together,” LaDawn says.

In an industry where women-especially Black women and women of color-are often pitted against each other, LaDawn’s mission is to unite, uplift, and celebrate.

Neyo & Ladawn

The Birth of “Diva Through Time”

LaDawn’s latest project, “Diva Through Time,” is an iconic music revue that celebrates the legends of music from the late ‘80s, ‘90s, and 2000s-names like Whitney Houston, Donna Summer, Tina Turner, Chaka Khan, Selena, Beyoncé, and more. “We are all-inclusive, baby, and diversity is key,” she beams.

This show is more than a performance-it’s a movement. LaDawn’s vision is to bring people together, just as music has always done, by sharing the stories and songs of women who have overcome adversity, inspired millions, and changed the world.

Her Journey: From Princess to Producer

LaDawn’s career began as the face of Disney’s Princess Tiana, a role she held for six years. “It was the start of it all, a great big platform for me,” she recalls. But LaDawn didn’t stop there. She founded Royal Maid Events, a business dedicated to creating magical experiences for Black princesses and princesses of color-giving children the chance to see themselves as royalty.

Mindset and Process

LaDawn’s approach to her craft is rooted in preparation, self-belief, and resilience. “Preparing yourself is being ready already, so you don’t have to get ready,” she says. She puts in the work-learning music, connecting with the stories of the artists, and always showing up for herself first. Even as a producer and star, she knows the importance of focusing on her own excellence, regardless of what others do.

Her performance routine includes vocal warm-ups, hydration, rest, and physical stretching. She uses everything from honey and ginger to steamers and lozenges to keep her voice in top shape.

Most Memorable Moments

One of LaDawn’s most unforgettable experiences was producing a Whitney Houston tribute at 54 Below, the legendary Studio 54. “I thought maybe 60 audience members would come. It ended up being over 100, and 50 people couldn’t even walk through the audience-it was so packed! I just remember, wow, I’m gonna cry, but yes, that was amazing. We had a packed out, sold out house. And that’s what I hope for this project.”

Connect with LaDawn Taylor

Follow LaDawn’s journey and get involved:

Don’t Miss Her Upcoming Show!

LaDawn Taylor’s next performance is set to be a celebration of culture, talent, and unity-where diversity isn’t just welcomed, it’s the main event.
Get your tickets: www.showclix.com/tickets/LaDawnTaylor

LaDawn Taylor is a force for change, a beacon of representation, and a testament to the power of believing in yourself and your community. Her story is one of vision, perseverance, and the unifying magic of music.

All quotes and background are provided directly from LaDawn Taylor’s own words and messages.

 

 

Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

 

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