Comcast Premieres a Unique Documentary on North Carolina A&T
In a remarkable move, Comcast has unveiled the exclusive premiere of Our Blues Makes Us Gold, a feature-length documentary that delves into the profound history and global influence of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Known as the largest historically Black university in the nation, this documentary invites viewers to witness the compelling narratives crafted by filmmakers Brandon Gerard and Ashley Shanté. Available for free exclusively through Comcast’s Black Experience on Xfinity and Xumo Play, this documentary is a celebration of heritage and achievement.
Exploring the Black Experience Through Storytelling
Launched in 2021, Comcast’s Black Experience serves as a rich content hub that showcases the essence of Black storytelling. Partnering with a variety of film studios and diverse programming sources, the Black Experience features original documentaries intended to highlight the talents and contributions of Black content creators. Accessible across Xfinity’s diverse entertainment devices such as X1, Flex, and the Xumo Stream Box, as well as the Xumo Play streaming platform, this initiative is geared towards broadening access to impactful stories.
Celebrating a Legacy of Education and Agriculture
Our Blues Makes Us Gold intricately explores the legacy and future of North Carolina A&T, emphasizing its significance as both a leader in STEM education and a historically rich agricultural institution. Through heartfelt narratives voiced by alumni and students, the film encapsulates the university's journey, resilience, and its indispensable role in shaping many lives.
The Inspiration Behind the Film
“We are thrilled to collaborate with filmmakers Ashley and Brandon to showcase this extraordinary documentary on the Black Experience platforms,” expressed Loren Hudson, Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer of Comcast Connectivity and Platforms. This collaboration is a testament to Comcast’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in storytelling.
Meet the Filmmakers
Ashley and Brandon, a husband-and-wife duo, bring over two decades of film production experience to their projects through their company, From A2B Entertainment. Their unique approach intertwines emotional depth with contemporary storytelling, creating a vivid portrayal of the subjects they depict.
Ashley reflected on her diverse experiences, stating, “A few years ago, I was in the writers' room pitching for a new character who was an HBCU graduate. The dismissive silence was disheartening. That moment of frustration became the fuel for what we aimed to achieve with this film: to present the excellence and impact of an HBCU to a broader audience.”
Brandon emphasized the film's essence, saying, “We wanted this narrative to resonate like tales told by the fireside with our ancestors, combined with the urgent call to action necessary to protect essential institutions like North Carolina A&T. Our gratitude extends to Comcast and Xumo for helping elevate these stories that reflect the unsung heroes of our community.”
Experience the Black Experience
Xfinity customers can easily access the Black Experience on their devices by simply stating “Black Experience” into their voice remote. X1 users can explore a curated channel dedicated to the best content the Black Experience offers, located on channel 1622 in the programming guide. With programs like Our Blues Makes Us Gold accessible nationwide, Comcast is dedicated to bringing transformative stories to the forefront.
About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) stands as a leader in media and technology on a global scale. Leveraging their extensive connectivity and entertaining platforms, Comcast's offerings reach hundreds of millions of viewers worldwide. Their services include high-quality broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, alongside the creation and distribution of exceptional entertainment under renowned brands like NBC, Universal, and Peacock. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for detailed information about their expansive range of services and initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the theme of the documentary?
The documentary explores the rich history and global influence of North Carolina A&T, highlighting its unique position in education and agriculture.
Who are the filmmakers behind 'Our Blues Makes Us Gold'?
The film is directed by husband-and-wife team Brandon Gerard and Ashley Shanté, who own From A2B Entertainment.
How can viewers access the documentary?
The documentary is available for free on Comcast’s Black Experience via Xfinity and Xumo Play.
What other content is available in Comcast’s Black Experience?
The Black Experience features a broad array of documentaries and programming focused on diverse stories and narratives within the Black community.
Why is the documentary important?
This documentary not only tells the story of North Carolina A&T but also aims to amplify the voices of its alumni and the importance of historically Black institutions.
