XL Fest has announced a collaboration to showcase emerging filmmakers on AMC+, the premium streaming bundle from AMC Networks featuring an extensive lineup of popular and critically acclaimed programming from AMC, BBC America, IFC and SundanceTV and full access to targeted streaming services Shudder, Sundance Now and IFC Films Unlimited.
Curated by Chicago natives Troy Pryor, founder of XL Fest and Larenz, Lahmard, and Larron Tate, the founders of TateMen Entertainment production company, Chicago XL Rising Stars will highlight the innovative voices of independent filmmakers from Chicago.
Creative Cypher, parent company to XL Fest, along with TateMen Entertainment are dedicated to championing authentic voices that offer unique perspectives on American stories. Their partnership with AMC+ represents a valuable opportunity to spotlight Chicago’s emerging filmmakers on a global stage. This collaboration opens the door for independent creators, especially from Chicago, to reach untapped audiences.
“We’re proud to partner with Chicago XL and support the vision of Troy, TateMen Entertainment and all the incredible filmmakers involved,” said AMC Networks. “We’re excited to provide a platform for audiences to engage with these authentic, fresh stories alongside a compelling slate of original series and films from across our portfolio of brands.”
“This partnership exemplifies our commitment to showcasing diverse, innovative, and fresh voices, and we can’t wait for audiences to experience these incredible films,” said Larron Tate.
This partnership marks a new chapter for XL Fest, solidifying its role as a leader in independent cinema. Featured filmmakers include:
- McKenzie Chinn, Lisa Masseur & Sarah Minnie, A Real One:
A Real One, a celebrated short film exploring authentic narratives, currently streaming and
the film was long-listed for an Academy Award nomination. - Kurt Roger Cherry & Patrick Wimp, Mister Abbott:
Mister Abbott is a lyrically infused, short-form documentary chronicling the life of Robert Sengstacke Abbott, the founder and publisher of the Chicago Defender. - LaTaryion Perry & Justin Burns, The Come Up:
The Come Up is a real Chicago story, told & portrayed by chicago talent where 4 high schoolers use slam poetry to navigate their difficult lives.. - George Ellzey Jr., Cottage Grove:
Cottage Grove follows a young man and his estranged father as they reconnect one night in Bronzeville, Chicago, exploring themes of reconciliation and familial bonds. - Quincy Ledbetter, Yuki Ledbetter, & Denzel Whitaker, Brand New:
Brand New tells the story of a newly famous music producer who returns to his hometown, confronting the guilt of his past and the bitterness of an old friend.
For more information, visit XLFEST.ORG or AMCPLUS.COM.
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