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‘Moses the Black’ Sees Omar Epps Wrestle With Ethiopian Saint

Omar Epps, Wiz Khalifa, Quavo, and Chukwudi Iwuji star in the newly released trailer for “Moses the Black,” a gritty crime drama produced in collaboration with rapper and film producer Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson. The film, linked to the inspiring true story of a gangster-turned-saint, hits theaters nationwide starting January 30.

“Moses the Black” follows Malik (Epps), a feared gang leader from Chicago’s West Side, who is recently released from prison. Determined to avenge the murder of his closest friend, Malik returns to a world on the brink of war. While his loyal right-hand, Mike (Corey Hendrix), struggles to maintain order, hotheaded crew members 2wo-3ree (Wiz Khalifa) and Meechie (Skilla Baby) are eager to draw blood.

(Source: Fathom Entertainment)

As ruthless rivals and a corrupt cop close in, Malik is haunted by visions tied to an unexpected spiritual inheritance: a small icon of Saint Moses the Black, given to him by his God-fearing grandmother.

The film draws its title and spiritual weight from the 4th-century African figure also known as Moses the Ethiopian, played by Iwuji in the film. A former slave to a government official, Moses eventually became a notorious thief and leader of a violent gang of robbers in the Nile Valley.

His life took a turn, however, when he sought to hide out in a desert monastery from local authorities. Inspired by the peaceful and dedicated life of the monks, Moses experienced a profound Christian conversion and permanently put down the sword. He eventually became a Desert Father and a priest, and is remembered today as a patron saint of non-violence. Saint Moses the Black’s life remains a testament to the belief that no one is beyond the reach of redemption.

In the film, the Ethiopian saint’s legacy becomes a mirror, forcing Malik to confront not only external threats, but the enemy within.

“Moses the Black” is a collaboration between Fathom Entertainment, Simeon Faith, the Nick Mirkopoulos Cinematic Fund, and 50 Cent’s G-Unit Film & Television. The movie, which runs nearly two hours-long, was written and directed by Yelena Popovic (“Man of God”).

“Moses the Black” is in participating theaters from January 30 through February 5, with tickets available for purchase via Fathom Events. The film doesn’t have an official MPAA rating, though the language and violence suggests it would be rated R.

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