BLKNWS
Challenge
BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions, directed by Kahlil Joseph, is a genre-defying film that blends history, fiction, art, music, and social commentary. Its complexity is its strength, but it also created a clear challenge: how to build momentum for a project that does not fit neatly into a single category, across a multi-city festival run.
Approach
Brand Curators supported the film’s festival run and distribution announcement, with a focus on press coordination and talent preparation. We did not simplify the story; we positioned it with intention. The film was framed as a cultural event, and Kahlil Joseph as a singular voice working across cinema, art, and Black cultural expression. Our role was to ensure the right media and audiences could engage with the work on its own terms.
Implementation
Developed messaging framework and narrative strategy for the festival run
Coordinated press across Toronto International Film Festival, New York Film Festival, BlackStar Film Festival, and the Gotham Awards
Provided red carpet coordination for New York Film Festival premiere
Media trained director Kahlil Joseph and key talent for interviews and appearances
Supported distribution announcement strategy and media outreach
Led creator and influencer engagement aligned with the film’s themes
Collaborated with the broader PR team across film, art, and culture media
Press Coverage
The film was featured in outlets including Deadline, The New York Times, IndieWire, Interview, and The Criterion Collection, spanning trade, cultural, and prestige editorial.You can view the full NYFF coverage report here.
Impact
Supported a four-festival run culminating in recognition at the Gotham Awards
Prepared key talent for high-profile media moments
Contributed to a cross-category press campaign spanning sector, culture, and criticism
Scope of work
Film and arts PR, festival press coordination, talent media training, cultural narrative strategy, multi-stakeholder campaign collaboration, prestige press campaign support.