Melanin Monroe
When Keithdris Elba, a visionary film director, surprisingly casts Melanin Monroe, a retired dancer, for the lead in his passion project celebrating black love, they set out on a journey of deeper connection. Their on-screen collaboration becomes a mirror reflecting a real-life exploration of self-discovery, entwining the threads of art, identity, and the unpredictable essence of love in the contemporary narrative they create together.
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Keith TerrellDirectorBeats Headphones "Living in Legacy", YouTube Originals "Bear Witness Take Action 3", Raincoat, Penny For Your Thought
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Keith TerrellWriterRaincoat, Penny For Your Thought
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Keith TerrellProducerRaincoat, Penny For Your Thought
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Keith TerrellKey Cast"Keithdris Elba"
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Andrea ThomasKey Cast"Melanin Monroe"All American
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Jakeem HawkinsKey Cast"Dominique"Celebrity Prank Wars, Heaux Phase, Dog Gone, Free Byrd
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Project Type:Short
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Runtime:20 minutes
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Completion Date:January 20, 2024
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Production Budget:15,000 USD
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Country of Origin:United States
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Country of Filming:United States
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Language:English
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Shooting Format:35mm
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Aspect Ratio:16:9
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Film Color:Color
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First-time Filmmaker:No
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Student Project:No
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Micheaux Film FestivalLos Angeles
United States
October 23, 2024
World Premiere
Official Selection -
The Ethereal Film FestivalLos Angeles
September 13, 2025
Winner - Best Film
Keith Terrell is an accomplished Writer, Director, and Producer with more than a decade of experience in Film, Television, Commercials, and Music Videos. Born and raised in South Central Los Angeles, Keith relocated to Atlanta to pursue his passion for Directing after serving as a First Assistant Director for several years working with some of the biggest names in the industry. His notable works include the groundbreaking Jay Z short film, Family Feud, Directed by Ava DuVernay as well as Beats Headphones Living in Legacy campaign for Apple, Bear Witness, Take Action 3 with Hoorae Media for YouTube Originals, and Central Ave for Will Packer Productions.
With a growing reel, Keith Terrell's focus lies in creating compelling content that highlights the nuances and challenges of the Black American experience, highlighting strong, positive images that debunk many outdated media stereotypes. His first narrative film, Penny For Your Thought, premiered at the TCL Chinese Theater’s Indie Night in Hollywood and won crowd favorite. His latest film, Raincoat, is now streaming on Amazon. He is also the Executive Producer and Host of Young, Black & Vegan, which has over 10 million views and more than 150K Subscribers.
In addition to his professional goals, Keith has a personal goal of helping the next generation of content creators. Knowing that many low-income minorities don’t have exposure to entertainment industry careers, he began teaching film at New Earth, an L.A. High School for troubled teens before relocating to Atlanta. He currently volunteers with Pathways to Production developing curriculum and lecturing on film production to students in Johannesburg, South Africa when his schedule permits.