Fusion Entertainment Signs Director Ryan DeForeest for Feature Film Adaptation of Short 'My Brother & Me'

Talent management and production company Fusion Entertainment has signed writer-director Ryan DeForeest to develop a full-length movie version of his short film "My Brother & Me."

The Story

The original short film debuted at the 2024 American Black Film Festival and later screened at the Micheaux Film Festival, the Oak Park Black Film Festival, and NewFilmmakers Los Angeles. The plot centers on two brothers over three decades, moving from South Los Angeles to Oakland as they grow up under their father, Allen. The older brother, Malik, faces his father's violence, while the younger brother, Terrence, who is gay, feels invisible in the household. Zechariah Eubanks and Alexander Bello played Malik and Terrence in the short film.

Awards and Production

The short earned a nomination for outstanding short form live action at the 56th NAACP Image Awards. It also picked up two 2026 Best of NFMLA Awards nominations for best short film drama and best cinematography. Fusion co-founder Chris Evans and Adam Kersh will produce the new feature alongside Lexx Truss, who also produced the original short with Shandrea Evans. Crew members returning for the feature include cinematographer Sade Ndya and composer Evan Wright.

Context

Short films are frequently expanded into feature-length movies when festivals and award nominations help them gain industry attention. Fusion Entertainment manages and produces talent, working to bring distinctive filmmakers and their personal stories to a wider audience through larger film projects.