Written and directed by Dee Rees and produced by Nekisa Cooper, Cinereach grantee Pariah opens in theaters on December 28th.

Pariah draws you into the life of a Brooklyn teen who juggles conflicting identities while searching for an authentic expression of self and sexuality that doesn’t place her at odds with family, friends or lovers. Its story is painted through the acclaimed cinematography of Bradford Young, and embodied by a stellar ensemble that includes Adepero Oduye, Kim Wayans, Charles Parnell and Pernell Walker.  A dynamic soundtrack featuring Brooklyn musician Tamar-kali intensifies the film’s pulse.  Dee Rees’ ability to helm all of these talents landed her  Breakthrough Director at this year’s Gotham Awards, and the film has been recognized with two nominations for the Independent Spirit Awards.

Pariah arrives in theaters almost a year after its premiere at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival, but its story truly began several years ago when Rees set out to make a short that could be expanded into a feature version.  The challenges and triumphs of the film’s journey are well described in Film Independent’s interview with Rees and producer Nekisa Cooper.  Cinereach is proud to have been one of many organizations along the way to have supported the film.

VIBE’s interviews with Rees and star Adepero Oduye offer you a chance to spend more time with these breakthrough talents, before seeing their outstanding work.  And Nelson George’s recent New York Times article contextualizes Pariah in a range of independent film made by African-Americans from the late 70s to now (including fellow Cinereach grantee Kinyarwanda).  Even better than reading about the film is watching it.

Pariah opens on Wednesday, December 28th in select theaters in NYC and California, and expands further nationwide on January 6th. Visit the Focus Features website for information on where to see Pariah.