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AUGUST THE FIRST

Directed by Lanre Olabisi
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Synopsis

It is the morning of Tunde's graduation party and things have already begun to unravel. Tunde has managed to alienate his sister, Simisola. His older brother, Ade, persistently plagues him with criticism, and their mother has started drinking again. Unbeknownst to most, Tunde has orchestrated the return of his long estranged father, resurrecting unresolved family anguish against the backdrop of Tunde's celebration. As the day turns to night, old wounds are re-opened and bad habits are revived. Layer by layer, deception and half-truths are peeled away as secrets are uncovered in what will be become the most unforgettable day the family has ever experienced.

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Editorial Reviews

By Eddie Cockrell

Olabisi exhibits a sure hand crosscutting among story threads and has a fine rapport with his ensemble cast. Standouts include newcomer Alsup as the well-meaning Tunde, Green's two-faced Dipo and Merriweather's volatile Rhonda.

 

--Eddie Cockrell/ Variety - Review

A smart and engaging debut, Olabisi's film is notable for a number of reasons, not the least of which is that it portrays black middle-class Americans in a normal domestic crisis situation sans guns, drugs, dealers or pregnant teens....Olabisi is most definitely a talent to watch and his film shows an adept camera eye and feeling for his subject matter

--IndieWire - Review

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Customer Reviews


Randy Buck - Customer Review
AUGUST THE FIRST is a real pleasure -- sharp writing, sure direction, and compelling acting. The dramatic territory -- a suburban clan's regrets and recriminations over a long day's celebration -- may be familiar, but freshness of observation and intelligence of execution make this picture a winner. Think of it as the perfect antidote to the Tyler Perry infestation at your local multiplex. I'll be eagerly awaiting more from writer/director Lanre Olabisi.


Jeff in Seattle - Customer Review
A nicely executed film with excellent performances and effort by all involved! This film shows the graduation party of one young man who invited his estranged Nigerian father without informing his friends and family of his decision. Apparently, this stirred some negative feelings in all involved. As the film progresses, you'll notice that the decisions were not at all altruistic. See this film and find out for yourself!


Funmi Tofowomo - Customer Review
"Olabisi is a true storyteller....August the First is a delightful film."

Photos

Click photo to enlarge. Then copy as you would any online image.
Dipo (D. Rubin Green) and Tunde (Ian Alsup)
Tunde (Ian Alsup) and Elsa (A. Toni Sterrett)
Rhonda (Joy Merriweather) and Dipo (D. Rubin Green) talking
Director Lanre Olabisi
August the First (hi res)

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