Exciting New Film Inspired by 1980s Musical Rivalry
Prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the 1980s as Vincent Victoria Presents (VVP) embarks on a new project aimed at delivering engaging, original theatrical experiences that draw from significant historical events within the African Diaspora. This award-winning organization has recently introduced its latest film initiative, featuring a captivating soundtrack and a talented ensemble cast. The film presents a dramatized account of one of the decade’s most infamous musical rivalries, pitting Rick James against Prince for the first time on the big screen. Bryce Ivan will take on the role of Rick James, while Taylor Getwood will embody Prince.
Red-Carpet Gala Event Details
The grand premiere will kick off with the acclaimed production, The Dichotomy of Hattie McDaniel, and conclude with Eight Notes to Heaven, promising a night filled with unexpected delights. This celebratory event is scheduled for August 31, 2025, at 7 p.m., located at The MATCH Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston (Matchbox IV), 3100 Main Street, Houston, Texas, 77002. Tickets can be purchased at The MATCH box office, and the doors will open at 6 p.m.
Rick James: The Pioneer of Punk Funk
Born as James Ambrose Johnson in Buffalo, New York, Rick James (1948-2004) burst onto the music scene as the creator of Punk Funk, a unique blend that fused the raw energy of rock with the rhythmic essence of funk. With iconic hits such as Fire & Desire, Mary Jane, and the unforgettable Super Freak, he revolutionized the dance music landscape. Notably, James made a striking cultural statement by transforming his signature hairstyle from an afro to long, Maasai-inspired braids. However, beneath his chart-topping successes, tensions simmered: he expressed frustration over MTV’s refusal to air Super Freak and the perceived slight from Prince regarding an autograph for his mother—grievances that fueled a rivalry as legendary as their musical legacies.
Prince: A Musical Prodigy
Emerging from Minneapolis, Prince Rogers Nelson (1958-2016) showcased exceptional skills in songwriting and performance, crafting hits for several artists, including Madonna, Alicia Keys, and Vanity 6. Known for his eclectic sound and captivating stage presence, Prince’s theatricality was evident in his performances, particularly as he formed his own sultry trio, Vanity 6, following Rick James’s introduction of The Mary Jane Girls. The competitive dynamic between these two musical giants was marked by both admiration and jealousy, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation of their creative prowess.
Award-Winning Success for VVP
Vincent Victoria Presents has announced that The Dichotomy of Hattie McDaniel is making significant strides in the independent film scene, having garnered three out of four major awards at the 2025 San Diego Black Film Festival, including Best Drama, Best Director for Vincent Victoria, and Best Actress for Wykesha R. King’s remarkable portrayal of the iconic Academy Award-winning actress, Hattie McDaniel. The film also claimed the Best Feature Award at the 2025 Charlotte Black Film Festival.
Upcoming Film Festivals for Hattie McDaniel
This compelling film will be showcased at two notable film festivals that celebrate Black excellence in cinema. The first will take place at the Charlotte Black Film Festival from June 5-8, 2025, followed by a feature at the Virginia Black Film Festival in Hampton from June 19-22, 2025, coinciding with Juneteenth. These selections signify an exciting new chapter for The Dichotomy of Hattie McDaniel, which aims to reimagine and reclaim the narrative of a groundbreaking icon whose life and career inspire vital discussions around race, representation, and resilience within the arts. “This film seeks to illustrate the unifying power of music, despite the differences that may divide us,” commented Vincent Victoria.
About Vincent Victoria Presents
Founded in Houston, VVP is a nonprofit theater company committed to bringing historical moments from the African Diaspora to life through stage and film. Since its establishment, VVP has produced five significant projects and four films, with support from the Houston Arts Alliance. As they continue to reach wider audiences with their award-winning narratives, stay tuned for more updates on this vital cultural work. For interviews, press screenings, and behind-the-scenes access, interested parties can contact syneetrawilliams@gmail.com or call (281) 797-9217.
VVP’s Transition to Film
Vincent Victoria Presents is gaining national recognition for its commitment to recreating pivotal moments from African American history, transitioning from theater to film. At the recent 15th Annual Charlotte Black Film Festival, their film The Dichotomy of Hattie McDaniel won the Best Feature Film award, equivalent to Best Picture. Earlier in January, the film also secured awards for Best Drama, Best Actress, and Best Director for Vincent Victoria at the San Diego Black Film Festival.
Future Projects and Films
“Shifting into filmmaking feels like a natural evolution for our company, as it allows us to share stories on a larger scale and connect with a broader audience. At my core, I am a storyteller, and film offers an exceptional medium for the narratives I wish to convey,” Victoria stated. The company has been fortunate to receive funding from the Houston Arts Alliance, which is crucial as film production tends to require significantly more resources compared to stage plays. Notably, VVP’s film The Colored Folks Goodtime Hour recently won Best Cinematography at Houston’s Fade to Black Arts Festival. Moving forward, their next project, Eight Notes to Heaven, which explores the rivalry between Prince and Rick James, is currently in post-production and set to premiere in Houston later this year. The announcement for their 2025-26 theater season will be made soon.
Supporting Cultural Narratives
To learn more about Vincent Victoria Presents, including upcoming events and opportunities for tax-deductible donations, visit their website. Your contributions help sustain this essential cultural work, allowing powerful stories from the African Diaspora to be told and celebrated.
