Last week, the MPI Original feature Freedom Hair was screened as an official selection at the Filmteenth Film Festival at the Landmark Theatre in Pasadena, California, where it won the Best Narrative Fiction award. 

The film’s Oscar-nominated director, Dianne Houston, and actresses Simona Brown (Netflix’s Behind Her Eyes) and Erica Tazel (Justified, Roots) participated in a post-screening Q&A where Houston discussed how the heart of Freedom Hair lies in delving into the profound significance of hair in black women’s lives—shaping their identities and fostering community bonds. Houston expressed optimism that the film would act as a catalyst for healing, empowering women to embrace their true selves unreservedly.

Based on an inspiring true story, the film stars Simona Brown as Melony, a determined mother who starts a natural hair braiding business to achieve financial independence but faces unexpected challenges from a powerful cosmetology cartel and the State of Mississippi.

Visit FreedomHairFilm.com to find additional screenings and follow Freedom Hair on X, Instagram, and Facebook for more updates.