New faces in cinema: Brianna Middleton and Stella Everett star in ‘Ride or Die’
A new journey begins
Brianna Middleton and Stella Everett have been cast in leading roles for the feature adaptation of “Ride or Die,” a short film by the talented filmmaker Josalynn Smith. This project marks a significant step in their careers, promising to captivate audiences with its unique storyline and compelling performances.
Behind the scenes
Josalynn Smith, who serves as both writer and director, brings her vision to life with the support of executive producer Datari Turner from Foxxhole Productions. Smith will also produce the film alongside Matthew Keene Smith, ensuring that the project maintains its creative integrity from start to finish.
The plot thickens
“Ride or Die” follows the story of Paula, played by Middleton, whose dreams of California are intertwined with a reunion with her crush, Jamie, portrayed by Everett. What starts as a casual errand quickly evolves into a cathartic journey through the Midwest. Along the way, a budding romance is transformed by a plot for vengeance, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to the narrative.
Brianna Middleton’s rising star
Middleton’s career has been on a meteoric rise. She was recently announced as the co-lead opposite Callum Turner in the Apple+ series “Neuromancer,” based on William Gibson’s classic sci-fi novel. Additionally, she stars in the Apple+/A24 feature “Sharper,” alongside Julianne Moore, Sebastian Stan, and Justice Smith, directed by Ben Caron. Middleton made her feature film debut in Amazon Studios’ adaptation of “The Tender Bar,” directed by George Clooney and based on J.R. Moehringer’s memoir.
For more on her work, check out the trailer for Neuromancer and Sharper.
Stella Everett’s impressive credentials
Everett, a Juilliard graduate and recipient of the Fendi Vanguard Award 2023, has also made significant strides in her career. Her credits include roles in “East New York” and “Evil,” showcasing her versatility and talent.
Explore her performances in East New York and Evil.
Josalynn Smith: A visionary filmmaker
Smith is a queer Black American filmmaker based in Los Angeles, known for her innovative storytelling and unique perspective. She was honored with the Sundance Uprise Grant in 2021 and awarded a residency at SFFILM as a Sloan Science in Cinema Filmmaker Fellow for her feature screenplay “Something in the Water.” Most recently, she was part of the 2022 Athena Film Festival Writers Lab for her pilot script “L’Amazone.”
A graduate of Columbia University’s Film MFA program, Smith’s thesis short, “Something in the Water,” received the Sloan Foundation’s Production Grant. She is also the recipient of the Jesse Thompkins III Screenwriting Award from Columbia and spent time as an artist-in-residence at the Catwalk Institute.
Representation matters
Middleton is represented by Gersh and Brillstein Entertainment Partners, while Everett is represented by Gersh and Independent Management Company. Their representation ensures that they continue to receive opportunities that match their immense talent and potential.
Final thoughts
The casting of Brianna Middleton and Stella Everett in “Ride or Die” is a testament to their growing influence in the film industry. With Josalynn Smith at the helm, this feature adaptation promises to be a captivating and thought-provoking journey. As these talented individuals come together, audiences can look forward to a film that not only entertains but also challenges and inspires.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Ride or Die.