• Kobi Libia will make his directorial debut at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival. American Society of Negro Magicians.
  • The film takes a satirical look at society, race, and the image of the “magical negro”, and explores the heartfelt coming-of-age story of Judge Smith’s character, Arena.
  • American Society of Negro Magicians features a strong cast, including David Alan Grier, An-Lee Bogan, Drew Tarver, Rupert Friend and Nicole Byer, and is set to make a strong impression at Sundance ahead of its wide release on March 22.

Next year’s Sundance Film Festival is already shaping up to be a jam-packed event for film buffs, with not one, but two new films. Kristin Stewartlatest project from Jesse Eisenbergand long-awaited Pedro Pascal-vel Freaky Tales, among other things. However, one such title from a first-time director that is sure to grab attention is American Society of Negro Magicians. A new trailer has been released ahead of the festival, revealing what’s to come in the film’s quirky and comedic directorial debut. Kobe of Libya.

American Society of Negro Magicians functions Justice Smith in the role of Aren, the young man found himself in the world of the titular shadow organization. After experiencing an escalation of racial microaggressions that spiral out of control, he is barely saved and is encouraged to join society and become a magical Negro himself. Working together, they use their wide range of powers to make life easier for white people, which is considered extremely important. This romantic comedy promises a satirical look at society, race, and the “magical negro” image, which challenges racist stereotypes that black people are relegated to a secondary role in white people’s history.. At the same time, it promises a heartfelt coming-of-age story for Aren as he learns what it means to care for himself and others.

Smith, who recently appeared in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thievesis led by a strong cast that also features prominently David Alan Grier a hot way out of a busy 2023, including Color Purple, They cloned Tyroneand a turn as Santa Claus in Candy Kane Lane. Rounding out the group An-Li Bogan, Drew Tarver, Rupert FriendAnd Nicole Bayer.

American Negro Magic Society is one of many directorial debuts at the Sundance Film Festival.

Libia’s feature debut comes after a prolific acting career, including roles in Alpha House And Madam Secretary among other things. He joins a long list of 40 directors attending Sundance for the first time this year, including other actors-turned-directors such as Lucy Lawless with his debut documentary Never look away. Also competing in the competition are Stewart and Steven Yeun-vel Love me from a duo of newcomers Sam Zuchero And Andy Zucero and Laura Chinnfirst film Sunny Coast starring Woody Harrelson And Laura Linney. Along with debut works American society from Magical Negroes hopes to make a strong impression on critics before it hits theaters on March 22 courtesy of Focus Features.

American Society of Negro Magicians The premiere will take place at the 40th Sundance Film Festival, which will be held from January 18 to 28. In the meantime, check out the trailer below and check out our most anticipated films heading to next year’s event.

American Negro Magic Society movie poster

American Society of Negro Magicians

Aren is recruited into a secret society of magical black people who have dedicated their lives to a cause of utmost importance.

Date of issue
March 22, 2024

Director
Kobe of Libya

Throw
Justice Smith, David Alan Grier, An-Lee Bogan, Drew Tarver, Michaela Watkins, Aisha Hinds

lead time
104 minutes

Main genre
Comedy

Genres
Comedy

Writers
Kobe of Libya