Detroit native, veteran radio personality, and voice over talent Gerald McBride has written, produced, and directed his first feature film — “Black Ice: The Rhythm.”
Premiering May 31-June 6 at select Emagine Theaters around metro Detroit, “Black Ice: The Rhythm” explores unsung heroes in a predominately white world of sport while weaving storylines of Detroit youth as they learn valuable lessons while chartering unfamiliar territory.
“My hope is that our story serves as an inspiration to young Black children to find their God-given rhythm and to harness their resilience while utilizing it for greatness,” McBride says.
Set against the backdrop of circumstances including racial and socioeconomic barriers, the film follows the story’s protagonist Robert, known as “Buck,” who is haunted by the untimely deaths of his parents. Abandoning his dream of becoming a professional hockey player, Buck spirals into rebellion as his grandmother, Ruby, fights to keep him out of trouble while battling cancer.
Following a three-year prison stint for an altercation on the ice rooted in racism, Buck faces an unexpected challenge to honor his parole. Buck is commissioned to form a hockey team in an all-Black indigent neighborhood with a neglected ice rink. He is overwhelmed with doubt and anger, yet a cherished cross necklace from his grandmother acts as a talisman of faith and strength.
Under the watchful eye of his supervisor, Olivia, he must transform a group of teen roller skating prodigies from a nearby rink into ice hockey stars. The film unravels the importance of camaraderie as it melts away barriers and forges an unlikely team destined for greatness.
The film, shot against the backdrop of the city’s iconic landmarks, features a local cast, including native Detroit actors and students. It tells the story of urban students harnessing their innate talents to master the game of hockey, highlighting the resilience and creativity of Detroit’s youth.
The themes of faith, family, forgiveness along with perseverance and prosperity in the face of adversity are expected to resonate with moviegoers.
It is a powerful story of how such values can guide individuals to conquer daunting challenges. No barrier is too significant to overcome for a believer.
The film chronicles the story of how to overcome trials and tribulations — as character storylines follow realities including incarceration, single parenthood, absent fathers, and unplanned teen pregnancy — through belief and harmony.
“Black Ice: The Rhythm” will be shown at Emagine Birch Run, Emagine Canton, and the Birmingham 8 powered by Emagine (Old Woodward location).
To view a trailer for the film, visit here.
