Ericka Alston Buck
Special to the AFRO
Local poet and author Mecca “Meccamorphosis” Verdell stars as the leading lady in acclaimed filmmaker Boaz Yakin’s new film titled,“Once Again (For the Very First Time).” The Parkway Theater in Baltimore was selected as the location for the premier of the movie last November.
Verdell is known as a top Charm City wordsmith, with numerous titles under her belt. Now, the author and teaching artist has added a heavy movie credit to her name.
Yakin has an impressive portfolio that includes “Remember the Titans,” the critically lauded sports drama starring Denzel Washington; “Uptown Girls,” a heartwarming tale of unlikely connections; and “Fresh,” a gritty, urban masterpiece that won him the 1994 Sundance Film Festival’s dramatic filmmakers trophy.
Baltimore creative leader Mecca Verdell stars in Boaz Yakin’s latest film, “Once Again (For the Very First Time). The movie premiered in Baltimore at the Parkway Theatre. (Courtesy photo)
The premiere brought together a vibrant mix of local artists, film enthusiasts and fans of Yakin and Verdell’s work, offering an intimate atmosphere for viewers to experience the film’s magic firsthand.
“It’s a hip hop fantasy…a huge love letter to Black culture, our art, battle rap and all those beautiful things,” Verdell told the AFRO.
Following the screening, attendees were treated to a thought-provoking question and answer period and a meet-and-greet with the film’s stars. Fans and those close to the Baltimore native packed out the venue.
Tonette McFadden, an attendee, said the film was “truly something special.”
“The combination of dance, poetry, and storytelling was unlike anything I’ve seen before. It was both beautiful and moving,” said McFadden.
Aundrea Johnson, another attendee, remarked on the poetry slam battles depicted in the film, saying, “The slam poetry scenes were absolutely electrifying. They captured the raw passion and artistry of the characters in such an authentic way.”
A bold cinematic vision
“Once Again (For the Very First Time)” invites viewers into a “hip hop fantasia” that blends street dance, slam poetry and an exploration of toxic love into a kaleidoscope of storytelling. The film revolves around DeRay, a legendary street dancer, and Naima, a spoken word poet, whose tumultuous relationship is depicted through fragmented memories and vivid dreams. Each interaction between the two protagonists combines physical movement and poetic expression, crafting a narrative that feels both raw and deeply personal.
Verdell described the essence of the film perfectly, stating, “It’s really about the art. It’s about the acting and the characters as well.”
Her portrayal of Naima is nothing short of breathtaking, capturing the character’s vulnerability and strength through piercingly intimate spoken word performances that draw audiences into the heart of her journey.
The choreography is a standout feature, pulsating with energy and emotion. From electrifying dance battles to introspective solos, the movements convey unspoken layers of love, trauma and healing. The film’s visuals further elevate the experience, with Yakin’s use of bold colors, dynamic lighting and fluid motion creating a sense of immersion. Each frame is meticulously crafted, making the narrative itself feel like a dance—a graceful interplay between reality and imagination, past and present.
A love letter to Black culture
For Verdell, the film is deeply personal and culturally resonant.
“This is a film about romance and toxicity and childhood trauma,” she said, “But most importantly, I think it is an important film because it really is separate from how a lot of American films are being made right now.”
“Once Again” stands apart from conventional American cinema, offering a celebration of art forms deeply rooted in Black culture. Its seamless fusion of battle rap, poetry and dance pays homage to the creative vibrancy of the community while tackling universal themes of love, second chances and rediscovery.
Though not currently available, the film could be available via streaming platforms in the future. For more information on Mecca “Meccamorphosis” Verdell, please visit www.meccamorphosis.com.
