A powerful cast is coming together for a story that hits close to home for many. Old Gray Mare, the emotionally gripping short film written and directed by Courtney Glaudé (The Reading), stars Devale Ellis (Sistas), Tyler Lepley (Harlem, P-Valley), Charnele Brown (A Different World), and Larissa Dali.
Old Gray Mare is a haunting, intimate portrait of what it means to watch someone you love slowly fade from view. The film follows Steven and Robin, who return from a relaxing cruise and pay a visit to Eileen’s home—only to realize things have changed in a way they can’t ignore. What was once chalked up to minor forgetfulness reveals itself as something far more devastating. In this house, memory is not just slipping—it’s unraveling.
With a deeply personal perspective, Glaudé crafts a poignant and haunting portrait of love, loss, and the slow unraveling of memory. The film, which already made its debut at the Atlanta Film Festival, continues its 2025 festival run with stops at ABFF (Miami), MVAFF (Martha’s Vineyard), and BronzeLens (Atlanta) this summer.
The film marks a new chapter for Glaudé, who is riding a wave of momentum following his overall deal with Tyler Perry Studios that outside of directing he will also develop and produce both scripted and unscripted content for television and film for Tyler Perry Studios. Known for his suspenseful storytelling and thought-provoking narratives, Glaudé previously wrote and directed The Reading starring Mo’Nique on BET+, and made his television directorial debut with Zatima (Season 3) and Ruthless (Season 6). His next project, a psychological thriller titled A Love, will serve as his first feature under Tyler Perry Studios. The psychological thriller explores the reality of domestic violence rooted in learned behavior from childhood. It will begin production next year.
Through Old Gray Mare, Glaudé offers not only a deeply personal exploration of memory and loss but also a platform for his actors to bring heartbreaking truth to the screen. As the film makes its way through key festivals, it’s clear this is just the beginning of a larger conversation—and a major creative season—for all involved.
Are you ready to feel something real? Keep an eye out for Old Gray Mare as it continues its festival journey in 2025.