Gina Prince-Bythewood

Gina Prince-Bythewood has a true belief in the power of stories. It’s her life’s purpose; she’s always going to search for the truth. Throughout her career, she’s also demonstrated a commitment to uplifting stories that aren’t always centered onscreen, including stories about Black women and women of color. I will always cherish the memory of premiering Love and Basketball at Sundance back in 2000, and witnessing the five-minute standing ovation that followed. It was a surreal experience to witness a young woman of color create that film for the world and to be by her side as she did it. And now, with 2022’s critically acclaimed hit The Woman King, she’s captured our world’s attention once again. Gina is a true writer and craftsman, with an amazing imagination! She also has a lot of integrity, this quiet strength. She will not sway when she believes something is right. She’s not only one of my favorite directors, but also my friend—and I’m her fan and cheerleader for life.

Lathan is an actor

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