Shadow And Act 2011/2012 Black Filmmaker To Watch, Rashaad Ernesto Green’s feature film debut Gun Hill Road – a film we’ve been talking about for about a year now, will finally make its stateside theatrical debut this weekend, when it opens on Friday in select cities.

I’ve already seen the film, and I loved it! A contemplative, compelling drama with all-around wonderful performances! An auspicious debut for Rashaad.

In Gun Hill Road, an ex-con (played by Esai Morales) returns home to the Bronx after three years in prison to discover his wife (Judy Reyes) estranged, and his teenage son (Harmony Santana) exploring a sexual transformation that challenges the already fragile familial bonds.

Isiah Whitlock also features.

The film made its debut at this year’s Sundance Film Festival and was quickly acquired for distribution. Since then, it’s been traveling the glove, screening for diverse engaged audiences, building buzz along the way, and Rashaad has been there right alongside each trip, documenting his efforts. This is what one must do when there isn’t a significant marketing budget to pay for TV spots, billboards, and other pricey marketing materials. This opening weekend will certainly be telling.

So, you’re strongly encouraged to see it if it’s playing at a theater near you.

Watch the trailer again below: