LOS ANGELES, CA— Dre’lentless Productions CEO and Filmmaker Andre K. Jefferson is offering audiences a first look at his latest dramatic short film, ‘Heartbeat,’ during Mental Health Awareness Month. Heartbeat will premiere on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at Succulent Studios, 11120 Scott Avenue, South Gate, California hosted by Actor Marcus Paulk from the UPN sitcom Moesha.
The film stars Andre K. Jefferson as Pierre who is the writer, director, and producer of the film. The film actors also include Monica Davis as Benecia, Quentari Walker as Kadaar, Conisha Wade as Nurse Vera, Tristian Bobo as child Benecia, and Ahmir K. Jefferson as child Pierre. A live Q&A with the film’s producer and cast will immediately follow the film’s screening.
The film shines light on the complexity of mental health, the value of suicide prevention, and the power of second chances. Heartbeat is filled with messages of hope and survival while providing an inside look into the mind of a person’s mental health fight. “As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, I am proud to bring important dialogue around this subject that affects everyone. This event will serve as a community-driven and solution base intervention to remove the stigmas around mental health, provide awareness, and lower suicide rates, says Jefferson.”
In conjunction with the film premiere, this event will include a panel of mental health professionals who will answer questions about mental health and provide insight on the topic.
To celebrate the film premiere, This is My Brave, KBLA 1580 AM Talk Radio, Los Angeles County Take Action for Mental Health, and African Communities Public Health Coalition have partnered with Dre’lentless Productions CEO and Filmmaker Andre K. Jefferson to present this event.
Vendors onsite include Heirborne, The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, West Shores Realty, Our Community, Sucre’ Couture, KBLA 1580 AM Talk Radio, 102.3 FM KJLH Radio, and performances by This Is My Brave.
Heartbeat Memorial Wall: Upload a photo of your loved one who was lost to suicide at www.heartbeatfilmevent.com.
The event is free and open to the public with advanced registration. Registration is strongly encouraged. To register visit www.heartbeatfilmevent.com. Connect on Instagram at www.instagram.com/heartbeatthefilm.