“Blackbird” Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary at Out On Film with Cast Reunion Screening

The acclaimed Black gay coming-of-age film Blackbird made a triumphant return to the big screen this year, celebrating its 10-year anniversary at Atlanta’s Out On Film Festival—one of the festival’s most beloved and impactful titles revisited for a new generation of viewers.

The special screening, sponsored by GLAAD, reunited key figures from the film, including producer Sidney Hicks, stars Julian J. Walker, Mo’Nique, Torrey Laamar, and Nikki Jane. Following the screening, GLAAD’s Vice President DaShawn Usher moderated a heartfelt Q&A with the cast, reflecting on the film’s lasting legacy and the importance of authentic Black queer storytelling.

Released in 2014, Blackbird follows Randy (Julian J. Walker), a devout high school choir boy grappling with his sexuality in a conservative Mississippi town. His journey unfolds amid deep family tension—his mother (portrayed by Oscar® winner Mo’Nique) blames him for his sister’s disappearance, while his father tries to guide him into manhood. The film’s emotional honesty and exploration of faith, family, and identity struck a chord with audiences upon its release, cementing it as a defining film in Black LGBTQ+ cinema.

Walker took to Instagram to express his gratitude and reflect on how far the film—and he—have come since its debut:

“What a blessing! The 10-year anniversary screening of Blackbird was more than I could ever imagine. A moment I will forever cherish, a moment that changed my life,” Walker wrote. “To all the Randys navigating their own journeys, your individuality is your superpower—never allow anyone to make you feel any other way. Live your life for YOU and follow your dreams knowing God made no mistakes.”

The night served as both a homecoming and a reminder of Blackbird’s enduring power. Its return to Out On Film—a festival that helped champion the movie’s original success—highlighted how vital stories like Randy’s continue to be in today’s cultural landscape.