Malcolm D. Lee is bringing a psychological thriller to one of the biggest stages in Black film.
His latest film Strung, led by Chloe Bailey, has been selected as the opening night film for the 30th annual American Black Film Festival in Miami Beach. The film will make its world premiere at ABFF before debuting June 26 on Peacock. Exclusively read on Variety.
Bailey stars as a gifted violinist whose new role as a tutor for a wealthy, enigmatic family quickly turns into something far more unsettling. What begins as a career-defining opportunity spirals into a psychological battle for her safety and sanity.
The ensemble adds even more weight to the film, with Lynn Whitfield, Lucien Laviscount, Anna Diop, Coco Jones, and Romy Woods rounding out the cast.
Written by Alan McElroy, Strung is produced by Peachtree & Vine and Blumhouse in association with Blackmaled Productions. Producers include Tyler Perry, Jason Blum, Tim Palen, Malcolm D. Lee, and Dominique Telson, with Philip Waley, Shaun S. Sutton, Alan McElroy, and Giselle Johnson-Morris serving as executive producers.
The selection feels especially aligned with this year’s festival, which marks 30 years under the theme “Homecoming.” With Regina King serving as ambassador, the milestone edition is focused on honoring legacy while continuing to push Black storytelling forward.
That positioning makes Strung a strong opener — pairing a recognizable director stepping into the psychological thriller space with a cast that blends established names and rising talent.
Following its ABFF premiere, Strung will begin streaming June 26 on Peacock.