Episode Details

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In this Filmmaker Q&A, filmmaker Yelena Popovic discusses her latest film "Moses the Black," which transforms the ancient story of a 4th-century Egyptian saint into a modern-day Chicago gangster narrative. She shares her journey of working closely with West Side Chicago community members, including former gang leaders, to create an authentic portrayal of urban transformation and redemption. The conversation explores the challenges of adapting religious stories for contemporary audiences while maintaining artistic integrity and avoiding preachy storytelling.

We also talk about:

• The creative breakthrough moment in Greece that led to setting the story in present-day Chicago

• Working with community consultants like Reginald Hakeem Berry Sr., a former gang leader turned community advocate

• The casting process and why she fought to keep Corey Hendrix in his role against industry pressure

• Collaboration with hip-hop artists like Wiz Khalifa, 50 Cent, and Quavo as executive producers and cast members

• The disconnect between authentic storytelling and industry expectations in modern entertainment

Mentioned: 

Moses the Black

Man of God

Yelena Popovic (filmmaker)

Omar Epps (actor)

Corey Hendrix (actor)

Wiz Khalifa

50 Cent

Quavo

Reginald Hakeem Berry Sr.

West Side Chicago

Pulaski Road and Madison

Greece

Egypt

Saint Moses the Black (4th-century saint)

Dostoevsky

Tupac

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony

Miley Cyrus

Vanderbilt Hospital

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