Essence Film Festival 2024 is set to host the premiere of “The Devil Ain’t Pius,” a short film starring by the iconic Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs. This film is a blend of suspense and supernatural elements.
In “The Devil Ain’t Pius,” the narrative revolves around Pius Montgomery, portrayed by Hilton-Jacobs, who, fifty years ago, traded the soul of a future grandchild to the Devil in exchange for immense wealth and success. Now at the helm of the billion-dollar Uncle Pius’ Devilishly Hot Hot Sauce empire, Pius faces the grim task of revealing this dark pact to his family. He gathers his four children and seven grandchildren, announcing that one of them must surrender their child to fulfill his debt. To make this heart-wrenching decision, Pius devises a series of games of skill, where the loser will have to part with one of their children.
The cast of this gripping film includes Iona Morris, Sammie Wayne, Rolando Boyce, Dana Wilson, Kamal Angelo Bolden, Benita Nall, and Kent Faulcon.
Watch the trailer below.
The film’s production is a testament to the power of Black women in filmmaking. Led by Screenwriter and Executive Producer Miatta Vincent Ronca, the team includes Director/Producer Keena Ferguson and Producer Delece James. Ferguson, an accomplished actor’s director, is known for her roles in TV shows such as “Atlanta,” “Young and the Restless,” and “S.W.A.T.” She has garnered accolades including an NAACP award and an HBO nomination for her film “Lindon Passing.” Recently, Ferguson directed seven episodes of the TV series “Lace” for AMC’s ALLBLK.
“The Devil Ain’t Pius” exemplifies a rare but powerful initiative: an all-Black woman production team crafting a narrative rich in imagination and cultural depth. This project highlights the creative force and collaborative spirit of Black women in the film industry. As Ronca, Ferguson, and James steer this project, they showcase what happens when Black women unite to produce compelling cinema.
Audiences at the Essence Film Festival 2024 can look forward to a film that not only entertains but also challenges and inspires, spotlighting the exceptional talent and storytelling prowess of its creators.