We Speak Actors

Acclaimed Award-Winning Screenwriter and Novelist Rodney Barnes Celebrates the Legacy of Blacula with Anticipated Graphic Novel “Blacula: Return of The King”

Published

2 years ago

February 1, 2023

Rodney Barnes, celebrated screenwriter, and Eisner Award-nominated author has just released his anticipated graphic novel “Blacula: Return of The King”, today as the first release through his new production company and publishing imprint, Zombie Love Studios. The graphic novel, illustrated by famed artist and “Killadelphia” collaborator Jason Shawn Alexander, was inspired by the cult-classic MGM film “Blacula” which was released in 1972 as one of the top blaxploitation films in history. Rodney has brought the Blacula character to the present-day, with a new storyline and modernized rendition.

Set in Los Angeles, two souls, one looking for vengeance and the other seeking the truth, share one thing in common; they are both searching for the legendary vampire Blacula. Tina Thomas is a reporter for the blog Dark Knights, which chronicles all things unnatural, uneasy, and undead. She meets a young man named Kross, who asked her to help him kill Blacula, after his family was forever changed by the vampire.

Alexander’s attention to detail and undeniable artistry depicts each scene of the graphic novel in a mesmerizing way, capturing readers into the alluring story through his imagery. Rodney’s rendition is both chilling and fascinating, and not only pays homage to the Blacula we know and love, but breathes new life into his character. The graphic novel, which is both available on Amazon or through your favorite bookstore or comic book shop, is the first of the Blacula series set to release this year for avid readers and fans of the genre.

Rodney has maintained his illustrious career in Hollywood for decades as a sought-after screenwriter for top television shows including his work with Fox’s “Everybody Hates Chris”, Adult Swim’s “The Boondocks”, Hulu’s “Wu Tang: An American Saga” and currently Executive Producer for HBO’s “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty”. His emphatic voice has set him apart as one of the great writers of our time, whether on screen or on the page. Rodney is also the co-creator of the Eisner nominated series, “Killadelphia,” with four collections published and currently scoring perfect reviews in its fifth story arc.

“I’m excited for the world to finally see this labor of love. Jason Shawn Alexander and I, along with team Zombie Love Studios have poured our hearts into resurrecting Prince Mamuwalde aka “Blacula” for a new generation. I hope they enjoy it as much as we did putting it together“, Barnes stated.

With first looks with genre media and through Rodney’s own social media feeds, this graphic novel is already primed to be one of the year’s most talked about releases. Rodney will appear at The Barnes & Noble at The Grove in Los Angeles on Saturday February 11 at 2PM, for exclusive insight into the ideation of the graphic novel, as well as the writer’s personal history with the character, and what he has planned next for Blacula.

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We Speak Actors

Full-Figured Flings Teaser Nears 14K Views – Director of Photography Offers Special Father’s Day Release

Published

2 weeks ago

June 6, 2025

MJ Savino

Back 2 the Basics Production Management Group is proud to announce the official teaser premiere for FFF: Full-Figured Flings, a bold and unapologetic new film celebrating full-figured women and challenging the norms of beauty in Hollywood. Clocking in at just 46 seconds, the teaser doesn’t waste a moment, delivering a powerful visual and emotional punch that sets the tone for a project rooted in body positivity, size inclusivity, and cultural truth.

Premiering ahead of the 20th anniversary of Phat Girlz (2006), FFF serves as both homage and evolution. The film expands the conversation around colorism, sizeism, and shapeism, spotlighting women who have often been cast aside, sidelined, or silenced.

“This teaser is more than a preview—it’s a declaration,” said Lillie Mae Jones, creator and producer. “FFF is our love letter to the women who’ve never been centered but have always been essential. We’re not just telling stories—we’re shifting the lens.”

FFF: Full-Figured Flings is currently in development as a non-union independent production, with plans to release in 2026. The film invites audiences and allies to follow, support, and amplify the message through community engagement, open casting calls, and creative collaborations—including the launch of a nationwide call for a “Big Girl Anthem” to serve as the film’s official theme song.

Accept the Challenge…

The buzz is building fast around the highly anticipated full-figured fashion experience FFF, and now there’s a challenge on the table that fans won’t want to miss.

After racking up 11,000 views in less than 10 days, the official teaser video for FFF on YouTube is quickly gaining momentum. And now, the film’s Director of Photography, Dominique Perry, has thrown down a bold offer:

“If we hit 20,000 views before Saturday, June 14th, I’ll drop an exclusive second teaser on Father’s Day.”

This is more than a film—it’s a movement. FFF is a high-fashion, high-impact visual celebration of full-figured women taking a stand for representation, inclusion, and power on and off the runway.

Here’s how you can help make it happen: Watch the teaser now on YouTube. Like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with your community and post why YOU stand in solidarity with full-figured women

Watch here for a taste of the boldness, beauty, and energy