Atlanta's own Ludacris to receive Humanitarian Award

ATLANTA, GA. (MAYS Media/ www.atlhiphopfilmfest.com) - Atlanta's own LUDACRIS will be recognized for his contributions to the community in a formal awards ceremony on April 17, 2005. This ceremony will mark the closing of the 1st Annual Atlanta Hip Hop Film Festival where films influenced by hip-hop culture as well as notable hip-hop musicians who have transitioned from music to film will be recognized. Other celebrity award recipients include ICE CUBE, MOS DEF, QUEEN LATIFAH and WILL SMITH. An award will also be presented in honor of the work of TUPAC SHAKUR.

The multi-platinum hip-hop superstar Ludacris has appeared in a number of films including 2 Fast 2 Furious and The Wash and is currently filming Hustle & Flow. In addition to acting, Ludacris is credited as a composer in You Got Served, Honey and Rush Hour 2 among other films. He is the founder of The Ludacris Foundation, a non-profit organization created to help young people achieve their dreams through the encouragement of 'Principles of Success.' The foundation utilizes music and the arts to connect with young people by listening to their views, issues, and challenges.

Other awards to be presented at the ceremony include Best Hip-hop Feature, Best Hip-hop Short, Best Hip-hop Documentary, Best Music Video, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Hip-hop Throwback and Best Hip-hop Futuristic. Winners of these awards will receive a medallion and a gift bag of prizes courtesy of the festival's sponsors.

The Atlanta Hip Hop Film Festival is the creation of Shameka Gumbs, Festival Director and President of Creative Circle Entertainment. Also at the helm is Ray Culpepper, Director of Big Ain't Bad, the 2003 Hollywood Black Film Festival Audience Choice Award. The festival is currently accepting submissions from filmmakers. Visit www.AtlHipHopFilmFest.com for guidelines and to download a Film Submission Form. All entries should be mailed to Creative Circle Entertainment, 8200 Mall Parkway Ste. 135-227, Lithonia, GA. 30058. Entries can be submitted prior to December 3, 2004 for an entry fee of $15. Entries can be submitted after December 3, 2004 for an entry fee of $25.
Inquiries regarding film submission should be directed to [email protected].