Wellness philanthropist Etienne Maurice, the co-founder of FilmGood LA and the son of Emmy-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, is hosting the 2nd Annual FilmGood, which will feature prominent figures such as Ralph and her Abbott Elementary co-star Lisa Ann Walter, the co-creators of the beloved series The Proud Family, the Oprah Winfrey Network and more.
Part of WalkGood LA, FilmGood—the only Black wellness film festival of its kind—is dedicated to celebrating and highlighting the narratives and contributions of Black creators in the film industry. The event strives to provide a platform for underrepresented voices, foster a sense of community and encourage dialogue around wellness in the film space.
“Healing and movement isn’t one size fits all. It’s important to showcase that wellness and mindfulness intersect all career paths, especially storytelling,” Maurice told EBONY.
“In our narrative, it’s how we incorporate wellness in the film industry, especially for underrepresented filmmakers to get their shot. As a filmmaker, it’s my responsibility to provide a space for our community to tell stories.”
Etienne Maurice and Ashlei Sharpe Chestnut in Mistletoe and Matrimony. Image: Ramona Diaconescu/OWN.
The opening night celebration includes a special screening of Jason’s Lyric, celebrating its 30th anniversary. A screening of OWN’s holiday movie Mistletoe and Matrimony will feature a Q&A with the film’s director, Rhonda Baraka and principal cast members, including Maurice, who plays a lead role.
Amazon MGM Studios, in partnership with Bricks and Wood, a South Central, Los Angeles-based apparel company, will present an advanced screening of Unstoppable, with a Q&A featuring Emmy-winning actor Jharrel Jerome, and The Legacy Talk video podcast will host a Q&A session with Lena Waithe. Ralph will lead an actor’s comedy panel featuring fellow cast members from Abbott Elementary.
“My mom’s proud of what my sister, our cousin and I have accomplished [with WalkGood LA]and always supports whatever we do,” Maurice exclaims with pride.
FilmGood will take place from December 11 to 15 at The WalkGood Yard in Los Angeles. Tickets are available at FilmGood.org.
