2024 was a remarkable year for MPI Original Films. From new releases like Kemba and Freedom Hair on streaming platforms such as Apple TV, BET+, and Amazon Prime Video to award-winning festival runs in 78 cities worldwide and 120 grassroots screenings, our films have inspired audiences, sparked new perspectives, and driven meaningful change. 

Alongside these achievements, MPI wrapped principal photography on nine short films, completed post-production on the MPI Original sci-fi thriller Motherland, continued to develop a growing slate of upcoming feature films such as One Second After and In Order to Live, and released two MPI Original shorts, A Clean Slate and Infraction, on CiVL.

As we reflect on this year’s achievements, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to you for your continued partnership in advancing the cause of freedom through film. Your support has been instrumental in making these victories possible.

Help us continue to create powerful stories that inspire change and develop the next generation of pro-freedom filmmakers.

The MPI Original feature film Freedom Hair had its world premiere in February at the Sedona International Film Festival, where it was honored with the Most Inspirational Film Award. Since then, the film has made waves on the festival circuit, screening at nearly 40 prominent festivals and winning 14 awards. Following its release, through a distribution deal with Vertical Entertainment in August, Freedom Hair is now streaming on popular platforms such as Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Google Play. Its Starz debut is set for next month. 

From its festival premiere to its broader release, Freedom Hair has garnered widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike. The film continues to have a profound impact, hailed as “a thoughtful portrayal of how government regulators challenge a small business owner in Mississippi” and “a must-watch for those seeking both inspiration and a powerful story of resilience.”

The MPI Original and BET Original feature film Kemba premiered on BET+ and quickly gained popularity on the platform. Following its debut, MPI spearheaded a targeted screening initiative, using Kemba to ignite meaningful discussions about the devastating impact of mandatory minimum sentencing. So far, the campaign has reached over 12,100 attendees through more than 120 events hosted at universities, community centers, corporate venues, and advocacy forums. Many of these events featured compelling talks by Kemba Smith Pradia—the film’s subject and executive producer—who inspired audiences to champion meaningful change. A highlight of the campaign was a sold-out bipartisan screening at the US Capitol, drawing nearly 500 lawmakers, policy experts, and advocates.

Two standout MPI Original short films, A Clean Slate and Infraction, recently secured distribution following their impressive success on the festival circuit. Developed through MPI’s RFP offerings—the Documentary Storytelling Workshop and Short Film Lab—these films reflect the powerful storytelling and talent cultivated through MPI’s initiatives. Both are now available to stream on CiVL, a free platform dedicated to bold stories that explore the challenges facing humanity.

A Clean Slate has sparked vital conversations about second chances and innovative bipartisan solutions, earning accolades at 22 festivals, including Best Documentary Short at the Red Rock Film Festival.

Gain deeper insight into the story behind A Clean Slate—from the film’s inspiration to the creative journey of directing and producing it—by watching the exclusive interview with director Trần Hoàng Calvin and MPI’s senior vice president, Lana Link.

Infraction has brought attention to themes of wrongful imprisonment, resilience, and determination, earning more than twenty awards at festivals, including Best Story Line in Boston, Best Actor in Richmond, and the Audience Award in Naples.

Discover the story behind Infraction as Lana engages in a thoughtful conversation with the film’s director, Timothy Blackwood, and the main cast. Together, they share their experiences on the project and reflect on the profound significance of its story.

support mpi’s work

Thank you once again for your support in making this another landmark year for MPI. Looking ahead to 2025—MPI’s 20th year—we anticipate even greater achievements and will keep you informed of our progress in the months to come. If you’d like to make a year-end gift to support MPI’s strategic efforts advancing freedom through film, please click here.