ALLBLK, the popular streaming service for Black television and film from AMC Networks, today announced the greenlight of original feature film, Operation: Aunties. Directed by Wendy Raquel Robinson (The Game), this action-packed dramedy tells the story of a longtime friendship that is tested when a risk-averse cryptocurrency expert and her retired detective best friend become vigilantes after discovering a cyber-crime syndicate in their city. Currently shooting in Atlanta, GA, the film is set to premiere in 2025, exclusively on ALLBLK.
After an attempted trafficking incident impacts her family, professor and blockchain expert Dr. Carol Cleavers (Melissa De Sousa, The Best Man) stumbles upon a dark web operation using new-age technology to assault and traffic women through a rideshare app. Knowing the feds won’t act fast enough, Carol teams up with her best friend, retired detective Sharon O’Hara (Tisha Campbell, Act Your Age), and her niece Aminah James (Amiyah Scott, Star), computer hacker extraordinaire. The trio embark on a vigilante mission bringing them face-to-face with danger and ultimately, one another.
“Operation: Aunties combines edgy action and laugh-out-loud comedy while tackling real issues affecting our society today,” said Brett Dismuke, Head of Content ALLBLK & We TV. “Melissa, Tisha, and Amiyah expertly bring these strong, Black female characters to life, showcasing resilience, empowerment, and tremendous heroism – keeping the laughs coming along the way, all of which resonate deeply with ALLBLK subscribers.”
“Black women are always saving the day. When I wrote the John Singleton embRACE L.A. competition-winning short film The Lifted, I drew inspiration from real issues plaguing our community, but more importantly, Black women,” said TJ Ali, Writer & Executive Producer, Galleryville Entertainment. “Our culture thrives because of the everyday change agent – those who consistently rise up and uplift our society. For me, those agents of change have always been women from across the diaspora. Now, with my debut feature film, I’m incredibly proud to partner with ALLBLK, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Big Little Sis Media, and our incredible cast to bring this vision to life – a story for us, by us. The culture deserves to see our aunties as the vigilantes they already are – our heroes. ”
“We are excited to collaborate with TJ Ali on his debut film, Operation: Aunties, which boldly addresses the urgent issue of cybercrime and human trafficking through a unique blend of action and humor,” said Latisha Fortune, Co-Owner & Executive Producer and Sheena D. Carter, Co-Owner & Executive Producer, Big Little Sis Media. “Working alongside Wendy Raquel Robinson for her sophomore directorial project is truly inspiring; her vision has brought a vibrant energy to this powerful narrative. The dynamic ensemble cast brings to life the spirit of resilience and empowerment that defines this story, particularly in highlighting the strength and brilliance of Black women in tech. Together, we are proud once more to partner with ALLBLK, a platform dedicated to authentic and inclusive storytelling that fosters narratives that empower and uplift the voices in our community.”
Operation: Aunties is Executive Produced by TJ Ali for Galleryville Entertainment and Latisha Fortune and Sheena D. Carter for Big Little Sis Media. Wendy Raquel Robinson serves as Director. Brett Dismuke, Head of Content, Nikki Love SVP of development & Original Production, Scripted and Kate Farrell VP of development & Original Production, Scripted Executive Produce for ALLBLK.
Tisha Campbell is represented by Paradigm and Mainstay Entertainment. Melissa De Sousa is represented by Paradigm. Amiyah Scott is represented by TCA Mgmt and Wendy Raquel Robinson is represented by TALENTWORKS and ARTIST COLLECTIVE ENTERTAINMENT.
