Troy Pryor’s Creative Cypher continues to celebrate Black creators and their stories in the latest joint venture, Dark Berry Productions.
Long Division, premiering in a sold out screening on January 19 at Chicago’s Davis Theater, is the first in a slate of productions by Creative Cypher/Dark Berry, whose co-principles include Ken Hoyd, Kyle Marshall, and Troy Pryor
“Chicago is the home of so many great creators, so we are making opportunities for those creators,” said Pryor.
Long Division, starring Barry Brewer Jr., Brandi Denise Boyd, Billy Dec and Melissa DuPrey, will be available for streaming on Tubi and Roku on January 19.
Brewer’s experience working directly with talents like Tyler Perry has provided him the skill set for advancing his career in film. Brewer had an amazing performance on America’s Got Talent and a lead role on BET’s show Bruh, produced by Tyler Perry Studios.
“I love how Dark Berry Productions is focused on building their production company to open up opportunities for Black actors,” said Brewer. “I love the team and their incredible work ethic.”
Long Division was filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic, creating a very different production experience, according to Brewer.
“The world was shut down. We were on set social distancing and wearing face masks,” Brewer recalled.
Kyle Marshall, co-principle of Dark Berry Productions said, “Production during COVID 19 was challenging. We were under heavy restrictions, and excess funds were being spent to manage everyone on set.”
Despite the adversities of the pandemic, the film, described by Brewer as a romantic comedy, is due to release this week, and Brewer encourages folks to check it out on Tubi and Roku.
“It’s a funny film shot during the pandemic about a couple during the pandemic,” said Brewer. “I think many people in relationships will be able to relate.”
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(Story was edited to change premiere screening date due to weather.)