Burke Entertainment Partners is happy to announce that “The Waterboyz,” a film produced by the company, has won the prestigious Best Director Award at the American Black Film Festival (ABFF). Written and directed by the talented Coke Daniels, “The Waterboyz” made its world premiere at the festival, captivating audiences and critics alike.

Burke Entertainment Partners’ CEO Vanzil T. Burke and Victor T. Burke, President, who are blood brothers, made the announcement.

“The Waterboyz” is a gripping narrative set in the streets of Atlanta. It weaves the tales of two young men whose paths cross in dramatically different pursuits. One strives to make a legitimate living, while the other seeks to dominate the streets through mayhem. The film features standout performances by a stellar cast, including Akil McDowell, Alani “La La” Anthony, Quavo, Omar Dorsey, and Rockmond Dunbar.

Coke Daniels’ visionary direction and compelling storytelling were recognized with the ABFF “Best Director” Award, presented by Cadillac, highlighting his exceptional contribution to the film industry.

“The Waterboyz” Producers include Daniels, Errol Sadler, John Doherty, Tirrell D. Whittley, and Cameron S. Mitchell. The film also boasts an impressive lineup of executive producers, including Burke Entertainment’s Vanzil T. Burke and Victor T Burke, Dolapo Erinkitola, Coach K., Pee Thomas, Ben Crump, and Brian Sher.

“We are incredibly proud of Coke Daniels and the entire team behind ‘The Waterboyz’ for this remarkable achievement,” said Vanzil T. Burke, CEO of Burke Entertainment. “The film’s success at ABFF underscores the powerful storytelling and exceptional talent that brought this project to life. We look forward to seeing the continued impact of ‘The Waterboyz’ on audiences worldwide.”

For the ABFF screening, Burke Entertainment partnered with Waterboyz in the Hood, an Atlanta-based organization known for its organized water-selling business. The company has fared well with space given to them by T.I’s The Trap Music Museum to operate and collaborations with various Atlanta restaurants to distribute water exclusively. Recognizing their ambition to become true businesspeople, Burke Entertainment included their story in the film to help elevate their efforts.

 

 

“Their dedication and entrepreneurial spirit truly stood out to us,” said Vanzil T. Burke CEO of Burke Entertainment. “We wanted to support their journey and help amplify their impact.”

The Waterboyz in the Hood also helped promote the ABFF screening of “The Waterboyz” in Miami by handing out water bottles with information about the event.

Burke Entertainment also partnered with Briarcliff and The Solution to executive produce the recently announced horror/thriller “Werewolves,” which is set for a wide release of the film in theatres on December 6, 2024.

The 2024 Jury Award winners are as follows:

Best Narrative Feature (Presented by Walmart): “Peripheral,” directed by Sulayman Tahir, written by Tahir and Jordan Tortorello

Best Actor (Presented by Ally Financial): Vince Washington (“Young King”)

Best Director (Presented by Cadillac): Coke Daniels (“The Waterboyz”)

Best Documentary: “Train: The Dick Night Tran Lane Story,” directed by Eric “Ptah” Herbert

Best Series (Presented by Comcast NBCUniversal’s Black Experience on Xfinity): “Unsolicited,” written by Barshea Lowery, produced by Lowery, Aysia Moore and Chazitear Martin

HBO Short Film Award Showcase Winner (Presented by HBO and Warner Bros. Discovery): “Chocolate With Sprinkles,” written and directed by Huriyyah Muhammad

Since its inception, the highly anticipated American Black Film Festival has premiered the work and supported the careers of many of today’s most successful filmmakers, actors, writers and stand-up comedians and is recognized as a standard-bearer of excellence for Black creativity. Continuing its legacy to empower Black artists and showcase a wide range of entertainment content will feature studio premieres, independent films, master classes, panels, talent showcases, networking and hospitality events.

About Burke Entertainment Partners

Founded in 2007, Burke Entertainment began as Burke Management Firm, built on the core values of integrity, honesty, and trustworthiness, instilled in the Burke Brothers, Vanzil T. Burke, and Victor T. Burke, by their parents, Mr. Willie C. Burke and Mrs. Genola A. Burke. As the company evolved, it transitioned to Burke Entertainment Partners, focusing on television and film production. Based in Beverly Hills, the company specializes in bringing creative visions to life through exceptional production services. Their newest release, “The Waterboyz,” recently won the “Best Director” award at ABFF. The company also partnered with Briarcliff and The Solution to co-executive produce the newly announced Frank Grillo Horror/Thriller “Werewolves,” which is in theaters nationwide in December 2024. Burke Entertainment Partners is dedicated to producing high-quality content that resonates with audiences and reflects their enduring commitment to excellence.