From Atlanta-based writer-director Bobby Huntley comes a new feature film titled “La Vie Magnifique De Charlie” (“The Beautiful Life of Charlie,” or simply “Charlie”), which he co-wrote with Nikki Wade, who also produces.
The filmmaker describes “Charlie” as a passion project which was shot in and around Atlanta on a nothing budget over a six weekend period.
Synopsis: “After her sister Brandy’s untimely death, everyone is taken aback by Charlie’s unorthodox (and seemingly chipper) approach to her grieving process. Follow Charlie and her friends Kayla and Keturah as they go along for a wild, hilariously exhilarating and bittersweet ride – which will surely be the craziest day of Charlie’s life.”
Touting influences that include early Spike Lee films, the French New Wave, Madonna and Prince, director Huntley sets up the visual aesthetics of the film by sharing that his goal was to give it a 1980’s textured look and feel, even though the story unfolds in the present day; further, a quirky, fun film that celebrates the complex and interpersonal relationships between black women, that he and co-writer Nikki Wade hope will generate discussion about how black women are typically portrayed in media.
Starring in “Charlie” are Kortnee Price, Nikki Lashae, Lailaa Brookings and Ashley S. Evans.
The filmmakers plan to begin submitting “Charlie” to film festivals; a Facebook page has been set up where you can follow its progress – https://www.facebook.com/bobbyhuntleyfilms/.
“Charlie” is executive produced by Chet A. Brewster of Davenstar 1 Entertainment; Nikki Wade produces via Divadom Entertainment; Cinematgraphy is by Kisha Hughes; Colorist is Brandon Cordy; and Musical Score is by Chuckey Charlies.
A first trailer for the film is embedded below: