the romans press release!

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WINNER BEST DRAMA RT: 109 Minutes NOMINATIONS BEST DRAMA, BEST DIRECTOR, BEST ACTOR Black Rose Films WINNER BEST DIRECTOR Electronic Press Kit

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COMING THIS SUMMER!JULY 2014

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  • WINNER BEST DRAMA

    RT: 109 Minutes

    NOMINATIONS BEST DRAMA, BEST DIRECTOR, BEST ACTOR

    Black Rose Films

    WINNER BEST DIRECTOR

    Electronic Press Kit

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    Synopsis

    The Romans is a modern day version of the Julius Caesar story set in the inner city of Buffalo, New York. Earl Roman runs his empire with an iron fist but a soft heart towards the people who live and strive in his neighborhood. His rival, the insidious Cicero Murphy and the corrupt Councilman Green, threaten his Domain. His son Reverend Eric Roman and his former protg Brucey B. are left behind to pick up the pieces of this deceitful empire. Written by Korey Green (The Forgotten City) and Larry Quinn comes a new age mobster style drama "The Romans" where in these streets the gun is more accepted than the bible.

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    Korey Green Director

    "The Forgotten City" is Korey's first project and the concept was birthed out of his experiences living in Buffalo. The film explores Green's talents as not only a writer, but also as a director. Since completing "The Forgotten City" Green has soared in indie films directing over 10 short films and a host of music videos, commercials and a feature documentary "The experience" which was shot in Ghana, West Africa. Currently, Green just completed feature narrative film "The Romans" as director and co-writer. Green has won numerous film awards, including New York, LA, Denver, Chicago, International Independent Film and Video Festivals, the Buffalo Niagara Film Festival and American black film festival in Miami.

    Korey Green was born and raised on the East Side in Buffalo, New York Growing up in the inner city of a dying urban community wasn't easy. In a neighborhood where most people chose thestreet life, which ultimately would lead to jail time or death; college was almost not an option. Following High School, Korey made the decision to continue his education at Alfred State College where he pursued his interest in Creative Writing.

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    Matt Quinn - Director of Photography

    Matthew Quinn is a Director of Photography based in Buffalo NY. Growing up in Tribeca. Matthew began studying photography, art, and music at an early age. He is a graduate of Boston University where he studied cinematography.

    Matthew works out of his studio at GCR audio in Buffalo. In 2007 He spent month in Ghana West Africa shooting a feature length documentary "THE EXPERIENCE" where he met Director Korey Green who he would work with for the next five years on music videos, and a short films. "THE ROMANS" is Matthew's first feature film project.

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    Larry Quinn Executive Producer

    Lawrence Quinn is the owner of LFQ Enterprises and the Executive Producer of the Romans. As Executive Producer Quinn supervised the creative content as well as the financial aspects of a production of the Romans. Mr. Quinn recently completed an 18 year career in the National Hockey League where he served as the minority owner and managing partner of the Buffalo Sabres. Quinn co- wrote The Romans with director Korey Green.

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    Stephan McKinley Henderson is an actor, known for Tower Heist (2011), Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close (2011) and Lincoln (2012). Henderson was born in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of Ruby Naomi and Elihue Henderson. He was originally part of Group 1 of the Juilliard Drama School, later finishing his degree at the North Carolina School of the Arts. He later studied at Rose Bruford College England. He was nominated for a 1982 Joseph Jefferson Award for Actor in a Principal Role in a Play for "The Island" at the Wisdom Bridge Theatre in Chicago, Illinois. He was nominated for a 2010 Tony Award for Actor in a Featured Role for his performance in the play, "Fences," on Broadway in New York City.

    Henderson is known for his role as Arthur in the acclaimed HBO film, Everyday People. Other film credits include White House servant William Slade in Stephen Spielbergs 2012 film Lincoln, Lester in the 2011 film Tower Heist, Bobo in the 1989 version of A Raisin In The Sun, Cooper's husband in the 1985 movie Maris, and roles in the films Keane (2004) and If You Could Say It In Words (2008). In addition to his films, Henderson was a recurring character Omar on the FOX series New Amsterdam, which premiered in early 2008. Henderson is known mostly for his stage work. Most recently, he portrayed Jim Bono in the Broadway revival of August Wilsons Fences starring Danzel Washington for which Henderson received a Tony nomination as a supporting actor as well as the Richard Seff Award from Actor's Equity. Previously, he appeared as Van Helsing in the Broadway production of Dracula the Musical. On Broadway, he has also performed in Drowning Crow, the revival of Ma Raineys Black Bottom, and the premiere of King Hedley II. Henderson is especially recognized as a veteran performer of August Wilson's oeuvre. Ironically, his signature August Wilson role is in the only play of August Wilson's ten-play Pittsburgh Cycle not to play on Broadway: the gossipy Turnbo in Jitney, for which he won a Drama Desk Award. He had created the role in the 1996 premiere at the Pittsburgh Public Theater, then honed it (as Wilson was honing the script) in other regional theaters before its arrival Off-Broadway in 2000. But having missed the Tony Award (which is limited to Broadway), he and the core of the cast took "Jitney" to London where it won the 2002 Olivier Award for best new play -- London's Tony. In addition, he appeared in A Raisin in the Sun and directed Zooman and the Sign. With the Labyrinth Theatre Company, he portrayed Pontius Pilate in The last Days of Judas Iscariot.

    Stephen McKinley Henderson

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    Jon Abrahams

    Abrahams has starred in many films and TV shows. His most notable roles are Bobby in Scary Movie, Dalton Chapman in the horror movie House of Wax and Denny Byrnes in the Robert DeNiro - Ben Stiller comedy Meet The Parents. He is also known as "DJ Jonny" on The Ellen DeGeneres Show for season four, replacing Tony Okungbowa. He has been replaced on season five by KROQ personality Ted Stryker due to his wish to concentrate on his acting career in film. He can be seen in the 2009 comedy "2 Dudes and a Dream" (currently in post-production) and has also starred in the Enrique Iglesias music video for Do You Know? The Ping Pong Song". Abrahams great-uncles were Mack Gray, actor in over 40 films and long time confidant of George Raft, Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra and Joe Gray actor, stuntman and fight coordinator in over 110 films and boon companion of writer Henry Miller. His father is the artist Martin Abrahams.

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    Jon Cesar

    The comedy store is were Mitzi, helped mold Jon into a stand up comedian by firing him. before losing his job at the comedy store he open & close for acts like Paul Monnie, Damian Wayans. Another giant icon that help launch Jon's career was(comedian) Bernie Mac. He also studied acting with actor/director Art Evan's art of acting. later Joining Toronto second city training centre , were he was discover by actor/ceo Benz Antoine.also from Buffalo,NY Peter McGennis Jr dir "Queen City movie ( first speaking role in a IND)2013 Leading role in drama film''The Romans'' blackrosefilm. Now you know about one of the most anticipated entertainer's in the world, soon to be know as one of the hardest working entertainer and one of the likable individuals to bless the stage & screen.

    The New King of Improve. Jon Cesar, a native of upstate, NY has always been know as an actor/Improver who Just happens to be funny.(lookin) Jon began acting by mistake, in grammar school he got his break as the first black Pinocchio, while performing only to get out of going to class. Jon later graduating from Performing Art's Academy, (Buffalo, NY) on Cesar landing on air Job at 93.7 WBLK, later moved to Hollywood, CA where he worked answering phones for Mitzi shore, owner of the" WORLD FAMOUS COMEDY STORE."

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    Tony Littles Tony Littles was born In Buffalo, New York on December 17th 1967. Other than taking parts in grammar and high school plays, Tony has never been involved in Television, Film or acting in his adult years. The Romans is my acting debut. When Korey Green asked me to consider reading for the part of Cicero, I asked him to describe the character briefly; within a minute or so, I told Korey I was tailor-made for the partwithout even looking at the script! I told him he didnt have to look for another person to play Cicero. He is looking forward to using this experience as a launching point to further his acting career. I had a wonderful time making and being a part of the movie. I thank Larry and Korey for giving me the opportunity.

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    Peter Johnson

    In addition, Peter founded his own independent production company, Xavier Productions in 2010 that specializes in the production of theater and film projects. He is currently in pre-production of his 3rd film and aims to produce films that are educational in nature by showcasing themes and topics that are relevant to todays youth and community as a whole. Peter is also finishing a research book with his wife and is completing his last year of his graduate degree(MFA) at the University at Buffalo in media production.

    The actor, writer, and director is a graduate of New York Film Academy where he studied the art of acting and film making. He has appeared in numerous independent films, television pilots and theater productions over the past 10 years.

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    Deja Stephens

    Deja Stevens is currently a dance major at the SUNY College at Brockport and was recently in SUNY Brockports production of Almost Maine. June 2013 Deja Graduated from Buffalo Academy of Visual and Performing Arts where she was a part of the theatre productions: Hamlet, Aida, and Once On This Island. For the past Two years Deja took dance classes at Buffalo City Ballet. When Deja is not performing she enjoys studying, training, meditating watching the boondocks and family guy, snacking on Hubba Bubba Squeeze Pops, and talking to strangers on public transportation. Deja gives glory to god, and is grateful for the support of her family, community and #1fan her mother

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    Byron Brown IIByron Brown II is an American filmmaker, cinematographer/director of photography, editor and actor. He's currently in his final year of study in pursuit of his bachelors degree in Digital Media Studies at the University at Buffalo. His prior studies include Cinema at Binghamton University. His recent work consist of: "Friday," an animated experimental short film which he directed and edited, "Lonley-ish," a short film he worked on as the cinematographer/ director of photography and co-editor, and "Arizona Meets Banksy: The Musical," a documentary he shot produced and edited. The Romans marked his acting debut and he's acted in several minor roles since. Upon graduating he intends to attend graduate school and continue to pursue opportunities in film with hopes of establishing himself as a filmmaker, cinematographer and actor.

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    Monique Webb

    Lorna C.Hill, (Ujima Theatre), Alza Acting Studio, (Toronto, Canada), and Phil Davis of Alemadae Theatre and Buffalo East. Though many years of steadily perfecting her craft as an actor by taking lead and supporting roles in local film projects and stage productions in the Western New York area such as The Bride Of Dracula in 2009 an opera, directed by Paul Ziembra, F.B.E in 2011 written by Phil Davis of Alemadae Theatre, directed by Willie Judson, and Black Jazz in 2013 written and directed by Terry King. It wasnt until 2013 after auditioning for the likes of Larry and Matt Quinnwhere she made her first major film debut in independent filmThe Romans directed by Corey Green, of Knuckle City Films. The actor says she credits her strong background in drama, one of the many vehicles used to tackle the tough role of Minny Roman a 40 something yr. old heroin addict-mother of two and wife of crime boss, Earl Cesar Roman of the film. In later works, the actress made waves in her performance of new choroeplay Aint She Brave by the Njozi Ensemble,A piece that seems to echo the artistry and spirit but newness of such productions like the 1975 choreoplay, four collared girls by Ntozake Shange. The success ofAintShe Brave later landed the actress great reviews in the Buffalo Newsand other media outlets, notarizing the actor as amazing and multidimensional.

    Monique is an American cultivated, theatre and film actor, born October 10,1980 in Buffalo, N.Y. to young parents Connie and Richard Webb. The actor recounts writing stories, singing, performing dance numbers and acting before the age of 8, talents she says allowed her the opportunity to attend a specially gifted arts program as a child. In later years, she went on to obtain training in Stanislavski method acting, Meisner technique and Improvisation under the direction of Willie Judson, (Buffalo, N.Y.),

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    A Comment From The Director

    Becoming a filmmaker saved my life I was born and raised on the Eastside of Buffalo, NY where most dreams are lost and futures are shattered. My testimony on where I stand today proves with hard-work and dedication you can make even when the odds are against you. In a perfect world I would make my films to serve as an influence to celebrate character driven films. Making "The Romans" has unquestionably been a surreal experience for me. While trying to follow other great directors and shooting the film in a traditional fashion I was met with tricky weather, the largest cast and crew I ever worked with and incredibly long shoots. My ongoing drive and inspiration in which started me was the same that helped me finish. Larry Quinn and I took 2 years out our lives to write this screenplay. In that time I was a young fiery director ready to shoot immediately but Quinn mentored me helping me with patience which essentially is what helped me complete the film. His process has made me a better man as well a better filmmaker. Although the film is considered low budget it is rich with storyline, dialogue and very rememberable characters like "Birdman" played by Stephen McKinley Henderson (Tower Heist, Lincoln). The film was shot on a red epic although every filmmaker would prefer shooting on film it gave us a great texture and the gritty look the film needed. With beautiful cinematography and a creative edge from director of photography Matthew Quinn (Larry's son). One big happy family with an aggressive schedule and a mission to finish this film against all the odds and criticisms. Making movies for me is a form of freedom to express myself visually. I feel with the current movie industry situation us as indie filmmakers have to be passionate about what we producing and maintain the spirit of real movie making without relying on CG and beautiful actors to sell the film (I love Clint Eastwood). The most important thing of making "The Romans" is what the film has done to my sometime hopeless community and that is showing dreams can come true no matter what. Just look at me. - Korey Green

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    Poster

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    Press

    The local movie production of "The Romans" shot one of its final scenes on Friday on Buffalo's East Side. The film is a modern urban play on the story of Julius Caesar, written and directed by Buffalo native Korey Green. "You don't go the East Side of Buffalo and see a lot of movies being shot, if any at that, so they're really excited about it," Green said. Friday's scene featured work being done on a vacant, run down home, with local extras supplied by the PUSH Buffalo organization, a group that rehabs homes like this everyday. "It's always a pleasure to get out and do something for the community and at the same time, let people know we are involved in the community," Spencer Gaskin of PUSH said. The scene also called for local media members to take part alongside the actors, and Channel Seven's Jason Gruenauer got to try out his acting chops in front of the camera. "It's always a pleasure to have you guys on set and show your appreciation and love and I'll do it back in the credits," Green added. Shooting for the film is expected to wrap up shortly, but no release date has been set at this time.

    Local Movie Talent WKBW TV News May 31, 2013Updated May 31, 2013 at 5:41 PM EST It's not every day you see a movie being shot in Buffalo, and it's not every day that they ask the local media to get involved. So that leaves only one thing left to say: action!

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    A movie shoot is wrapping in Buffalo and when the film comes out you might see a cameo by Channel 4. (Photo courtesy: WIVB)

    BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - A movie shoot is wrapping in Buffalo and when the film comes out you might see a cameo by Channel 4. One of our photographers and some of our News 4 equipment took part in the final scene of "The Romans." The movie is a modern-day version of "Julius Caesar." All the action Friday took place on Wakefield Street, where a councilman is confronted by a heckler. Film director Korey Green said, "Buffalo has been represented big time in this film. Not only do we have extras for this scene but we have several other scenes. People have been coming out and showing a lot of appreciation and a lot of love." Another scene for "The Roman" was shot at City Hall earlier this month. Copyright WIVB.com

    Press

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    James Fink / E-mail / Twitter Buffalo Business First Reporter-Business First

    Larry Quinns lengthy and impressive resume can now add a new line; Film producer and co-author. Quinn is producing and helped author the script of The Romans, an independent film currently being shot at various sites. The Romans is an East Side Buffalo tale loosely based on Julius Caesar with people playing the updated roles of fabled characters like Brutus. The Romans was jointly written by Quinn and Charles Korey Green. Green is the films director. Christie Allen is co-producing the movie with Quinn. Quinns son, Matt, is the films director of photography. Its an intriguing story because it covers so many topics like politics, crime and religion, Quinn said. The chance to work closely with his son was also a major draw for Quinn. The Romans is one of many things Quinn has undertaken in the two years since B. Thomas Golisano sold the Buffalo Sabres to Terry Pegula. Quinn was the Sabres minority owner and managing partner. He helped broker the deal between Golisano and Pegula. The best thing is we are using local actors, a local crew and shooting the entire movie in Buffalo, Quinn said. Among those being cast in the film is Stephen McKinley Henderson, a Theater Department professor at the University at Buffalo. Henderson had a minor role in Lincoln and has also appeared in such TV shows Blue Blood and Law & Order. Henderson and Vinvent ONeill, artistic director at Irish Classical Theater, help The Romans secure actors and other key personnel. The way theyve pitched in, it has been absolutely incredible, Quinn said. Filming will likely continue through April. The Romans is scheduled to be released this fall. James Fink covers real estate, commercial development and government Industries: Media & Marketing

    Ex-Sabres' exec producing movie in Buffalo Mark Webster

    Press

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    Contact

    www.theromansmovie.com

    Contact

    Distribution & Sales / Producer Representative [email protected]

    [email protected]