BET+ has released the official trailer for its Sundance Film Festival acquisition, “Young.Wild.Free,” set to premiere on June 27. The film stars Sanaa Lathan, Mike Epps, Algee Smith, and Sierra Capri and is directed by Thembi L. Banks.
The story follows Brandon Huffman, portrayed by Algee Smith, a hot-tempered high school senior whose life takes a dangerous turn after an encounter with Cassidy, played by Sierra Capri. Brandon, burdened with school struggles, caring for his younger siblings, and unemployment, finds an escape in his art. Cassidy, embodying confidence and danger, pulls Brandon into her world after robbing him at gunpoint, leading him down a perilous path.
Sanaa Lathan stars as Janice Huffman, Brandon’s mother, who grapples with mental health challenges while raising three children. Mike Epps plays Lamont, the father of Janice’s youngest children, whose relationship with Brandon is strained.
Lathan shared her thoughts on the role, noting, “Starting out in the theater, one of the joys of acting to me is to really transform. Janice’s plight is the plight of so many women in America.” Director Thembi L. Banks aims to depict a story of young love and the complexities of family life, stating, “This film is about young love and as a fan of coming-of-age stories, this is the kind of film I would’ve wanted to experience as a young Black girl.”
Banks emphasizes the importance of supporting young Black directors, especially women. “I was excited once I met with Thembi to hear her vision. She’s a true artist,” Lathan added.
“Young.Wild.Free” is written by Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier and produced by Confluential Films, MACRO Studios, and No Label Productions. Executive producers include Codie Elaine Oliver, Charlotte Koh, Prince Baggett, Jo Henriquez, Mark R. Wright, Jenna Cavelle, Tony Rettenmaier, Juel Taylor, Thembi L. Banks, and Sanaa Lathan.
Catch “Young.Wild.Free” on BET+ starting June 27, 2024.