A moving portrait of caregiving, reconciliation, and self-worth, Love The Skin You’re In makes its highly anticipated debut at the Hollywood Black Film Festival (HBFF) this October. Written, produced, and starring first-time filmmaker Sauda Johnson-McNeal, the film has already begun stirring conversations for its emotional depth, veteran cast, and unapologetically human storytelling.
The film will screen Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 6:30 PM PT at the Harmony Gold Theater in Los Angeles—positioning it as one of the most heartfelt selections of this year’s festival.
From Courtroom to Camera: A Personal Debut
Johnson-McNeal, this attorney, brings a fresh and fearless voice to the screen, both behind and in front of the camera. Drawing on lived experience and emotional truth, she tells the story of a daughter whose world changes when her father, facing serious health issues, moves into her home. What follows is a profound exploration of intergenerational healing, forgiveness, and the strength it takes to show up for ourselves and those we love.
“This film was born from a place of truth,” says Johnson-McNeal. “It’s about what happens when we are called to love deeper than we thought we could—starting with ourselves.”
An Ensemble of Excellence
Joining Johnson-McNeal onscreen is a cast of powerhouse performers who bring heart, humor, and humanity to every scene. The featured cast includes:
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Sauda Johnson-McNeal
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Wendy Raquel Robinson
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Obba Babatundé
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Marla Gibbs
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Flor Delis Alicea
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Blythe Howard
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Kareem Grimes
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Marcus Mitchell
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Adilah Barnes
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Jaqueline Fleming
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Kyrie McAlpin
This deeply talented ensemble breathes authenticity into the narrative, amplifying the film’s emotional resonance and relatability.
Behind the camera, Love The Skin You’re In is supported by an equally accomplished creative team:
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Written, Produced & Executive Produced by: Sauda Johnson-McNeal
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Directed By: Kenn Michael
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Produced By: Kimberly L. Ogletree
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Executive Producer: Obba Babatundé
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Co-Producer: Brittney Murray
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Director of Photography: Crystal Kelley
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Music Supervisor: Tanya Du’Shay
Together, this collaborative force delivers a visually elegant, emotionally grounded cinematic experience that highlights the richness of Black family dynamics and resilience.
Why This Film Matters
More than just a family drama, Love The Skin You’re In is a timely and tender reflection on what it means to care—for others and for oneself. Its themes of mental wellness, generational trauma, and the unspoken sacrifices of caregivers resonate far beyond the screen.
6 Reasons to See “Love The Skin You’re In” at HBFF
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A Bold Directorial Debut: Sauda Johnson-McNeal’s leap from law to film is an inspiring pivot, and her authentic voice shines through every frame.
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Veteran Star Power: Featuring acclaimed performances by Robinson, Babatundé, and Gibbs, the film blends indie sensibility with seasoned craft.
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Themes That Resonate: The story tackles real-life issues—family caregiving, emotional healing, and self-acceptance—head-on.
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A Cultural Celebration: As an HBFF selection, the film honors and reflects the beauty and complexity of the Black family experience.
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Independent Cinema at Its Best: This is exactly the kind of emotionally rich, underrepresented story that deserves festival attention and audience support.
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A Night of Connection: Screening in LA’s iconic Harmony Gold Theater, this premiere offers not just a film, but a full-circle cinematic experience.
Hollywood Black Film Festival: A Platform for Purpose
The Hollywood Black Film Festival, running October 15–19, 2025, is known for showcasing compelling stories by Black filmmakers from across the diaspora. With a mission to uplift narratives that reflect Black life in all its complexity, HBFF has long been a launchpad for fresh voices and visionary talent.
By attending, viewers are doing more than watching—they’re supporting a movement.
Explore the festival lineup at thehbff.com
Buy tickets to “Love The Skin You’re In” and other screenings here
Final Frame
Love The Skin You’re In is a film that whispers where others shout—inviting viewers to sit with discomfort, embrace vulnerability, and find power in reconciliation. With stellar performances and a message that lingers, it’s poised to be one of the most emotionally resonant films at HBFF 2025.
For anyone seeking a story that speaks to the heart, uplifts the soul, and reminds us of the transformative power of love—this is the one to watch.
Film Report by Lela Christine