Alexandra Grey, Justin Sams, Brian Nelson Jr. & Ahmed Mawas cast in Grey’s short, Grace
Blackfilmandtv.com has exclusively learned that Alexandra Grey (Empire), Justin Sams (Marvel's: Cloak & Dagger), Brian Nelson Jr. (The Chi), and Ahmed Mawas (The Recruit), have signed on to star in Grace, a new short film that Grey will direct from her own script for her production company, Bishop Street Productions.
Grey was accepted into the Chelsea Film Festival's screenwriting grant program earlier this year. As a result, she produced, directed, and stars in a captivating short film titled 'Grace,' which delves into the world of 80s music and black dreams. The film is set to premiere in October at the Festival.
Marking Grey's second short film, Grace centers on Grace Gordon (Grey), a resilient trans singer with dreams of reaching music superstardom. Set against the backdrop of 1980s Los Angeles, Grace navigates the challenges of pursuing her passion for music while confronting societal expectations and generational trauma.
Grey plays Grace, a black trans woman with dreams of music stardom in the height of the vibrant 80s. Sams plays Charlie, the sharp and supportive host at Gazzari's nightclub. He stands up for Grace and encourages her, helping her navigate a hostile environment. Nelson portrays Leroy, the antagonistic security guard at Gazzari's, while Mahwas takes on the role of Irving Johnson, a big-time record executive. He attends Gazzari's open stage night, in hopes of discovering the next big talent for his roster. Additional cast includes Jazzmun (CSI, When We Rise), as Gloria Gordon and Jayden Guarneri (Abbott Elementary), as Young Grace.
Grey serves as Executive Producer, financing the project through her Bishop Street Productions, with support from Chelsea Film Festival's Screenwriting & Filmmaking Incubator. She will produce alongside Dale Guy Madison (Transparent), and singer-songwriter Ghazellé, with Kozmiel, contributing as an assistant producer. Barb Morrison (Concussion) and Mark Byers (Rupaul's Drag Race) serve as music supervisors for the film.