Phoenix-based production company Co-Media is raising funds to produce an all-new episodic sci-fi dramedy series featuring several actors and producers with strong ties to the Valley. Black Man Black Man is a surreal journey that tackles the age-old question: What would happen if we walked in someone else’s shoes?
“People should be excited to watch this show because it’s timely and relevant, and it’s an invitation to laugh at ourselves and each other,” Co-Founder Lad Makinde said. “We’re living in a very contentious time in America. Digitally, we’re more ‘connected’ than ever, but real life seems more openly siloed and divided than I can remember in my lifetime. We don’t empathize and connect beyond our differences. This show is an attempt to kick start a conversation.”
In the same vein as shows such as Black Mirror and Atlanta, this show will explore day-to-day societal constructs and the dynamics of culture, race, class, and community through an outside-of-the-box approach.
“In some ways, the show is a love letter to black people, but I also see it as an open invitation to anyone ready to have an honest conversation about community, race, class, and culture. If you’re a person who can see some of themselves in someone ‘unlike’ you, grab a seat,” Makinde said.
The project will star several Los Angeles-based actors, including Monti Washington (Tyler Perry’s Bruh on BET+) and Norman Towns (Insecure on HBO), who grew up in the Valley and have successful careers in Hollywood. It is being co-produced by Phoenix-based director/producer Irin Daniels (Marmera Films, Glow Frame Initiative), with Glow Frame offering tax deductions for specific donation amounts as a 501(c)(3).
“We’re excited about this project because it’s relevant and challenging, and we’ve put together a fantastic team who can pull it off. Race is a polarizing topic, especially in America. Many would rather avoid it altogether,” Makinde said. “Yet, our shared history beckons us to address what many attempt to erase. No one will ever be able to deny the colorful, dynamic tapestry of communities who have helped weave this nation together. America does not exist without us.”
For more information, visit the Black Man Black Man Seed & Spark crowdfunding page.
