'The Distinguished': A Journey Into The Supernatural At A Prestigious HBCU

A story about a Black HBCU student with magic powers, where do we watch?

Do Good Film has released the trailer for The Distinguished, a new short film filled with everything we love: the supernatural, mystery and authentically Black.

The Distinguished follows Sevyn, portrayed by Jabbar Lewis, a college freshman whose transition into university life at a prestigious HBCU takes a dark turn. He finds himself haunted by cryptic messages that appear in his dreams, messages sent by an unseen supernatural force. As the line between his dream world and reality starts to blur, Sevyn’s quest to understand these visions pushes him toward the hidden truths of his family's legacy.

Directed by Rickey Castleberry, who co-wrote the screenplay with Rodney Wilkins, the film features an ensemble cast led by Lewis, with Harold Perrineau, Tracie Thomas, Jonathan Burke, Tosin Morohunfula, Charles Smith, Shawn Carter Peterson, Luke Youngblood, Gentry White and Chris West.

Director Rickey Castleberry describes the film as more than just a story of supernatural encounters. “The Distinguished is a lens, a view of opportunity, for us Black people to see ourselves rooted in a universe where our powers mean something," Castleberry said in a statement. "This piece was always meant to be a reflection – a reminder – that you’re stronger and more powerful than you think you are.”

Check out the trailer below.

The Distinguished premieres on YouTube on September 6.