Tyler Perry Studios, in collaboration with DeVon Franklin, has unveiled their inaugural project under a fresh partnership with Netflix that concentrates on faith-based content. The movie, “R&B,” directed by Alanna Brown—who garnered acclaim with her work on “Trees of Peace”—is a contemporary adaptation of the biblical narrative of Ruth and Boaz. The film boasts a high-profile ensemble cast including Serayah, Tyler Lepley, and Phylicia Rashad. Filming for “R&B” has been taking place across several locations in Georgia recently.
Overview
Set in the heart of Tennessee, “R&B” follows the journey of a young woman who leaves behind Atlanta’s vibrant music scene to care for an elderly widow. Through this unexpected chapter in her life, she discovers love and gains the maternal figure she has always longed for. Drawing inspiration from the biblical story of Ruth and Boaz, the film translates this classic tale into a contemporary setting, exploring themes of love, faith, and personal growth.
Production Team
Director: Alanna Brown
• Alanna Brown is at the helm of “R&B,” bringing her storytelling prowess to the project. Her film “Trees of Peace” was released on Netflix in 2022, reaching the platform’s Top Ten list during its debut week. The film earned top awards at the American Black Film Festival and the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. Brown has also contributed as a writer on the series “Blindspotting” and gained recognition for her screenplay “Water Between Worlds.”
Screenwriters:
• Michael Elliot (“Brown Sugar”)
• Cory Tynan (“Play’d”)
Producers:
• Tyler Perry
• DeVon Franklin
Executive Producers:
• Angi Bones
• Tony L. Strickland
• Bart Lipton
Tyler Perry and DeVon Franklin have entered a multi-year, multi-film deal with Netflix to create faith-based films aimed at uplifting audiences. “R&B” is the first production from Tyler Perry Studios and DeVon Franklin under this partnership, showcasing their commitment to telling inspiring stories with universal themes.
Cast Details
The film features an ensemble cast of talented actors:
• Serayah (“Empire,” “Kingdom Business”)
• Tyler Lepley (“Harlem,” “P-Valley”)
• Phylicia Rashad (“The Gilded Age,” “The Beekeeper”)
• Walnette Santiago (“Doom Patrol,” “BMF”)
• Nijah Brenea (“Kold x Windy,” “Rap Sh!t”)
• James Lee Thomas (“One Spoon of Chocolate,” “Bad Boys: Ride or Die”)
• Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds (Renowned musician and producer)
• Jermaine Dupri (“Genius: Aretha,” “Brown Sugar”)
• Lecrae Moore (Award-winning hip-hop artist)
Other Projects by Perry and Franklin
This collaboration is one of several under Tyler Perry and DeVon Franklin’s ongoing projects with Netflix:
• Tyler Perry’s Upcoming Releases:
• “The Six Triple Eight”: A film starring Kerry Washington, set to premiere on December 20.
• “Beauty in Black”: A series debuting on October 24.
• DeVon Franklin’s Recent Work:
• “Flamin’ Hot”: Produced by Franklin and directed by Eva Longoria.
• “Miracles from Heaven” (2016): A faith-based film highlighting extraordinary events.
Conclusion
“R&B” aims to resonate with audiences by blending faith-based themes with contemporary storytelling. By reimagining the timeless biblical narrative of Ruth and Boaz, the film explores the depths of human connection, the search for belonging, and the transformative power of love. With a strong creative team and a talented cast, “R&B” is poised to make a meaningful impact and add a compelling chapter to the collaborations between Tyler Perry Studios, DeVon Franklin, and Netflix.
