Well here we go… If you dare to dream things can happen. Just be comfortable with what you want because you need to be ready to let the “shoe fit”. I am overwhelmed and overjoyed by the reality that “Invisible Beauty” is having its theatrical release at the art cinema Film Forum in New York. I always appreciate what films they choose to screen and then for our film to be distributed by Magnolia Pictures. Many years ago I longed for the idea of being distributed by Magnolia. Again, their choice of films to partner with that has built their reputation that has brought them respect from film lovers. So here I am. Everything is a lot. Yet it’s what I worked to achieve. Truth is I don’t have enough suave to handle all gracefully. The story, the film, trailer and poster, the focus is on me. Being the subject of the film became easier after the Sundance FF premiere, and I give credit to the audiences. It took some getting use to but I have. You made a movie about yourself best you get use to it. But as someone told me when the trailer debut this week and I confessed to being a bit uptight, “learn to lean into it cause it’s happening” All and all I am happy because of all I mentioned prior. Without it there would be nothing to share. Blessed to have had a marvelous human and talented co-director, Frédéric Tcheng and our producer Lisa Cortes, who is exceptional at what she does. She held us down. And our co-producer Paul Dallas who was the cool seeker of archival footage. All to say nothing good comes easy. In the end I am happy because the audiences are happy. And I am proud we created a wonderful story to share. We open Sept 15th NY Sept 22nd LA/Chicago Sept 25th D.C. Sept 29th open wide See you at the movies !!!! @invisiblebeautyfilm
It’s that time in life when you wake up and realize that you are never too old to learn. You become flabbergasted by the action of others and realize there is so much about another you couldn’t imagine no matter how much you think you know them until a certain time and circumstance comes to play. You come to realize what you see is not what you necessarily get, because life is not over. It all depends on what’s missing in their life how a moment in yours could trigger something in them that no longer allows them to remain the same. You will not see it coming because it’s beyond expectation. The effect is astonishing and as much as it’s unbelievable, you must learn to roll with the punch. It’s nothing to do with you. But the insecurity within them is indeed. The love and respect lessen for what you witness but the memories will remain. The great thing about aging if you have lived a good life and pursuit of always doing the right thing with compassion for others, there are rewards for that. Here on earth and beyond, you will reap as others who have benefited will be your joy, and usher you through. So let go of the unworthy and hold tight what reminds you of your successes. Life is long, if blessed to live it and short as well, towards the end. I am finally recognizing my goodness and worth. 🌺 #invisiblebeautyfilm
Another opportunity 25 years later to be in another Gap campaign. “Always learning” is my new slogan…discovering Brooklyn Circus and this wonderful collaboration Gap X BKc. Thank you for choosing me to add to the fabric of what you each do. @gap @thebkcircus
Another opportunity 25 years later to be in another Gap campaign. “Always learning” is my new slogan…discovering Brooklyn Circus and this wonderful collaboration Gap X BKc. Thank you for choosing me to add to the fabric of what you each do. @gap @thebkcircus
For me once again life will not be the same. This lost broke me. Same feeling with the lost of Nick Kamen and Jean Michel Basquiat. I see how and have wondered why ? Every other passing I embrace with sadness and emotion some less or more, but once again to hear that Gail was no longer alive was a stunner. She didn’t want anyone to know that she was ill, only few and family. She wanted to do this alone with less fuss. I have witness how certain people come on earth and bring something that connects to my spirit deeply. As did Jean Michel, Nick and Gail. Each of their passing hurt deeply. It was a different type of close. Each far younger than I. But close we were in an unobvious way. From the time she and I met we maintain our relationship, started in the early 80’s before the Black Girls Coalition, which she was part of, and after I started my model agency. I would go to Gail with a thought of interest or plan of action. Her intellect I admired and sense of reason, which helped me as I often needed that other set of ears and eyes, as I was out there in business on my own. Yes she was beautiful, smart and gracious. She led with compassion. It has been hard for me to acknowledge her passing, needed days to come to this acceptance so I could acknowledge it publicly, was unable prior to speak to others or the media that my dear “Gaily” was no longer with us. But I needed to acknowledge her as I have with others. I last heard from Gail, July 21 when I announced my film Invisible Beauty was being distributed theatrically. She text to say how proud and hoped it came to Atlanta. I recently thought let me remind Gail, it’s in Atlanta. Then I received the news, gone that Tuesday Oct 10th. No reason right away until her family member contacted me two days later to explain all. I will always think she is here and glad my needs are less. Rest well “my bella”. 🙏🏾
After premiering Sundance FF in late January, my co-director Frédéric Tcheng and I hit the film festival circuit end of March. Since then we have been invited and attended 8 or more festivals. Sometimes the film goes to a festival and we don’t attend like the festival in Barcelona or the upcoming festival in Jerusalem. As hectic and demanding as it is, it’s also inspiring. There is nothing like going to these festivals and meeting the audiences and experiencing the Q&As. The joy to experience the amount of festivals that is inviting our film and getting to audiences by going to city after city and let all who view and witness tell you how touched, inspired and wonderful the film has had its effect. Their responses have been rewarding and we are so happy to share the film with all. We believe it’s a legacy film. I remember after seeing the film edited down to four hours I became a believer…until then the “jury was out.” Though I did the work as the subject and co-directed, still…seeing is believing. As we continue to travel to festivals, the joy of having our New York Premiere at Tribeca Film Festival coming up is everything and exciting. I have a long history with the festival, and a born and bred New Yorker. This is a New York story that fills everyone’s cup no matter where you are from. So come to the festival and see “Invisible Beauty.” I’ll be there. Excited to share, hope you enjoy and tell me your thoughts at the Q & A. Tickets are available for purchase at https://www.tribecafilm.com/films/invisible-beauty-2023. @invisiblebeautyfilm
A few days ago I learned of the passing of Raquel Welch. I want to share the great respect I had for Raquel because of the respect and trust she had in me. Raquel (who I later called Rockie) wanted to have representation for her daughter Tahnee. Someone she knew told her about me. I was working at the agency Click Models. I was asked to come to dinner to be introduce to Tahnee. It was mutual admiration immediately. I introduced Tahnee to the agency. Of course she was desired, it was the daughter of Raquel Welch and she was pretty to boot. It was not so much to model per se but to act. I believed sincerely of the possibility even though we were basically a model agency, I truly dreamed of the silver screen of film. When I left Click to start my own agency, Tahnee was the only talent that had come to Click agency because of me. Tahnee saw it that way as did Raquel. They both supported me and had no other connection to the agency. Tahnee was called and was begged to remain at Click. She had no problem saying no. It was interesting to me how supportive they both were when I had nothing but the opportunity to go my on way. I was not established but it was meant. Tahnee was not in a hurry as she was not a working model per se. Soon after, Racquel got a call from Italy of a film interest in Tahnee, she called me. This was my interest. Tahnee and I were flown to Italy to meet the production company. She remained to do the film and I came back to New York to set up the company and find an office. Which I did all because I was given purpose by Tahnee and Racquel. Tahnee believed in me as did Racquel. Often times I would wonder why ? A Black young woman, with barely a pot to piss in, stuck in a situation where I had to prove myself, at the time with no financial support, just their belief that I could do it carried me through. Tahnee was my first and only talent, while she made her first movie, I was able to start Bethann Management due to my model Bonnie Berman who waited in the wings and found us the money. Women..just never count us out. May your spirit soar high Rockie …RIP. #neverforget #racquelwelch 2nd foto is Tahnee during the agency.
A few days ago I learned of the passing of Raquel Welch. I want to share the great respect I had for Raquel because of the respect and trust she had in me. Raquel (who I later called Rockie) wanted to have representation for her daughter Tahnee. Someone she knew told her about me. I was working at the agency Click Models. I was asked to come to dinner to be introduce to Tahnee. It was mutual admiration immediately. I introduced Tahnee to the agency. Of course she was desired, it was the daughter of Raquel Welch and she was pretty to boot. It was not so much to model per se but to act. I believed sincerely of the possibility even though we were basically a model agency, I truly dreamed of the silver screen of film. When I left Click to start my own agency, Tahnee was the only talent that had come to Click agency because of me. Tahnee saw it that way as did Raquel. They both supported me and had no other connection to the agency. Tahnee was called and was begged to remain at Click. She had no problem saying no. It was interesting to me how supportive they both were when I had nothing but the opportunity to go my on way. I was not established but it was meant. Tahnee was not in a hurry as she was not a working model per se. Soon after, Racquel got a call from Italy of a film interest in Tahnee, she called me. This was my interest. Tahnee and I were flown to Italy to meet the production company. She remained to do the film and I came back to New York to set up the company and find an office. Which I did all because I was given purpose by Tahnee and Racquel. Tahnee believed in me as did Racquel. Often times I would wonder why ? A Black young woman, with barely a pot to piss in, stuck in a situation where I had to prove myself, at the time with no financial support, just their belief that I could do it carried me through. Tahnee was my first and only talent, while she made her first movie, I was able to start Bethann Management due to my model Bonnie Berman who waited in the wings and found us the money. Women..just never count us out. May your spirit soar high Rockie …RIP. #neverforget #racquelwelch 2nd foto is Tahnee during the agency.
Last weekend September 15th “Invisible Beauty” my long awaited documentary opened in a movie theater, Film Forum in NYC, distributed by Magnolia Pictures. A three prong desire came to fruition. We had a good theatrical weekend and I thank all who came out to view and support. Please keep coming, more to achieve. I do hope we stay longer at the theatre then short. Proving that people are interested to attend. The longer in the theatre means people are supporting. We need you. Now here are the next round of theatrical screens opens tomorrow, September 22nd. Check if your city is listed. Please take time to see what has become a crowd pleaser. We want this film to have a life in the theaters and then onward. So please check the listings. I appreciate each and every one of you for your support. *STILL PLAYING AT FILM FORUM @filmforumnyc *FOR UPDATES wwwinvisiblebeauty.com
“One of my favorite films this year. An incredible story. I highly recommend – everyone please watch this film! Not only is it entertaining but it is a critical piece of our history.”
-Geeta Gandbhir in conversation with directors Bethann Hardison and Frédéric Tcheng
.
.
Honored to be sharing notes on Activism, Film and The Power of Collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
.
.
Full video on YouTube @invisiblebeautyfilm
Or Vimeo https://vimeo.com/892892339
.
.
#activism #collaboration #fyc #documentary #geetagandbhir #frédérictcheng #bethannhardison
Hold this thought … As this is something to share and give a gander. Or enough said ?
For me once again life will not be the same. This lost broke me.
Same feeling with the lost of Nick Kamen and Jean Michel Basquiat.
I see how and have wondered why ?
Every other passing I embrace with sadness and emotion some less or more, but once again to hear that Gail was no longer alive was a stunner. She didn’t want anyone to know that she was ill, only few and family. She wanted to do this alone with less fuss.
I have witness how certain people come on earth and bring something that connects to my spirit deeply.
As did Jean Michel, Nick and Gail. Each of their passing hurt deeply. It was a different type of close. Each far younger than I.
But close we were in an unobvious way.
From the time she and I met we maintain our relationship, started in the early 80’s before the Black Girls Coalition, which she was part of, and after I started my model agency. I would go to Gail with a thought of interest or plan of action. Her intellect I admired and sense of reason, which helped me as I often needed that other set of ears and eyes, as I was out there in business on my own.
Yes she was beautiful, smart and gracious. She led with compassion. It has been hard for me to acknowledge her passing, needed days to come to this acceptance so I could acknowledge it publicly, was unable prior to speak to others or the media that my dear “Gaily” was no longer with us. But I needed to acknowledge her as I have with others.
I last heard from Gail, July 21 when I announced my film Invisible Beauty was being distributed theatrically. She text to say how proud and hoped it came to Atlanta. I recently thought let me remind Gail,
it’s in Atlanta. Then I received the news, gone that Tuesday Oct 10th. No reason right away until her family member contacted me two days later to explain all.
I will always think she is here and glad my needs are less.
Rest well “my bella”.
🙏🏾
PLEASE VOTE 🙏🏽
If you liked Invisible Beauty, show your love by voting in the @cinema.eye.honors Audience Awards. And tell your friends!
Our film made the long list – and Bethann was also nominated in the Unforgettables category. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Please support! Link in bio or here: https://cinemaeyehonors.com/audience-choice-voting/
International Women’s Day As much as it’s natural to think of another woman to represent this day, yet I think of a man in memory who loved women so much and supported us all. Whether you were a model, editor, or someone like me who became his “Black sister” who he supported and loved my eye for discovering models to introduce him to, to represent his vision and design. Azzedine ALAiA loved women. The love he gave his biological sister we watched. And how each of us became a daughter or a sister to him as well. This brilliant visionaire and maker of clothes to adorn a woman’s body the way he did was beyond the love and generosity he gave with it, will never be matched. As that time has passed. We as women know it’s our day of recognition, but remembering a man who believed in each of and helped us to become exceptional and more delighted with ourselves was everything. I only wish every young woman could have experience Azzedine..because it was a true gift. #azzedinealaïa 🖤 📸 @arthurelgort
So nice …I am doing it twice. I shared on my IG story but was asked to share further. If it suits me..it’s a keeper. “Invisible Beauty” attended our 2nd festival this weekend since Sundance FF in January and this was the results. We won two awards. Yikes ! We were acknowledged nicely the weekend before, at Annapolis Film Fest, and were given the Black Experience Impact Award. I was the very first recipient of this award. Very nice. I have been recognized before. This for me is next level, for a film I co-directed, first time and perhaps my last, the appreciation for the story, how it was told, with the information shared. All are making me realized how happy I am that I was able to step out of my way and help make this film happen. Grateful to my co-director Frédéric Tcheng for believing and wanting to tell my story with producer Lisa Cortes who felt the same. We are scheduled for more festivals to attend. This film has to find a home with the right distributor. During a time that film, TV and streamers are in financial difficulties and few documentaries are finding distribution. The responds of the audiences is all telling, we will and must have that right distributor. Because this film will test time and remain relevant. All because I am listening to the audience, the roar of that noise and not the noise of the healthy market, this I know be true. Even for the teenagers in our SLC screening in Utah. Their love goes long with us. They got it and cheered about it. Longing to share this film with you, so please send out positive vibration for that proper distributing partner with money to put on a winning horse. Meanwhile we are in film festival mode, check out your Festival city for our film “Invisible Beauty”. @misscortes @invisiblebeautyfilm Peaceful eternal journey to Michael Roberts who always believed in how I went about things..I wish he could have seen the story told. He would have smiled with a wink. Rest in Peace 🖤
“One of my favorite films this year. An incredible story. I highly recommend – everyone please watch this film! Not only is it entertaining but it is a critical piece of our history.”
-Geeta Gandbhir in conversation with directors Bethann Hardison and Frédéric Tcheng
.
.
Honored to be sharing notes on Activism, Film and The Power of Collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
.
.
Full video on YouTube @invisiblebeautyfilm
Or Vimeo https://vimeo.com/892892339
.
.
#activism #collaboration #fyc #documentary #geetagandbhir #frédérictcheng #bethannhardison
“One of my favorite films this year. An incredible story. I highly recommend – everyone please watch this film! Not only is it entertaining but it is a critical piece of our history.”
-Geeta Gandbhir in conversation with directors Bethann Hardison and Frédéric Tcheng
.
.
Honored to be sharing notes on Activism, Film and The Power of Collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
.
.
Full video on YouTube @invisiblebeautyfilm
Or Vimeo https://vimeo.com/892892339
.
.
#activism #collaboration #fyc #documentary #geetagandbhir #frédérictcheng #bethannhardison
“One of my favorite films this year. An incredible story. I highly recommend – everyone please watch this film! Not only is it entertaining but it is a critical piece of our history.”
-Geeta Gandbhir in conversation with directors Bethann Hardison and Frédéric Tcheng
.
.
Honored to be sharing notes on Activism, Film and The Power of Collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
.
.
Full video on YouTube @invisiblebeautyfilm
Or Vimeo https://vimeo.com/892892339
.
.
#activism #collaboration #fyc #documentary #geetagandbhir #frédérictcheng #bethannhardison
“The People’s Doc” 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Grateful for our fams and fans 👏🏾👏🏽👏🏾
.
Now on Demand wherever you get your movies
“One of my favorite films this year. An incredible story. I highly recommend – everyone please watch this film! Not only is it entertaining but it is a critical piece of our history.”
-Geeta Gandbhir in conversation with directors Bethann Hardison and Frédéric Tcheng
.
.
Honored to be sharing notes on Activism, Film and The Power of Collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
.
.
Full video on YouTube @invisiblebeautyfilm
Or Vimeo https://vimeo.com/892892339
.
.
#activism #collaboration #fyc #documentary #geetagandbhir #frédérictcheng #bethannhardison
“One of my favorite films this year. An incredible story. I highly recommend – everyone please watch this film! Not only is it entertaining but it is a critical piece of our history.”
-Geeta Gandbhir in conversation with directors Bethann Hardison and Frédéric Tcheng
.
.
Honored to be sharing notes on Activism, Film and The Power of Collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
.
.
Full video on YouTube @invisiblebeautyfilm
Or Vimeo https://vimeo.com/892892339
.
.
#activism #collaboration #fyc #documentary #geetagandbhir #frédérictcheng #bethannhardison
