On Wednesday, May 27, Peacock opened the 30th American Black Film Festival (ABFF) with the debut of the new Original psychological thriller, STRUNG. The New World Center Performance Hall and additional screening room at the Miami Beach Convention Center were filled to capacity, with audiences responding enthusiastically to the film’s many twists and turns throughout the screening. Stars Chloe Bailey, Lynn Whitfield, Lucien Laviscount, Coco Jones, Romy Woods, and Donna Biscoe were in attendance, along with Producers Malcolm D. Lee and Dominique Telson and EPs Giselle Johnson-Morris and Shaun Sutton.
I love a good suspense thriller and a solid narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. I hadn’t had the privilege of directing a film in this genre, but when I read Alan McElroy’s script, I knew I had to dip my toe in this water.
The countless times I reacted out loud while reading the script’s twists and turns motivated me to put my own stamp on this evergreen genre and add to the pantheon of psychological thrillers. Strung draws you in with a combination of lush visuals, captivating performances and a riveting soundtrack that captivates viewers – that is, if your heart and nerves can withstand the suspense.
STRUNG premieres on Friday, June 26, 2026 only on Peacock.
Lynn Whitfield
Coco Jones in Geyanna Youness
Lucien Laviscount
Chloe Bailey in Avaro Figlio
Lucien, Romy Woods, Coco
Lucien, Malcolm D. Lee, Romy, Coco
Lucien, Malcolm, Romy, Coco
From director Malcolm D. Lee, a talented violinist takes a prestigious job as a music tutor for the gifted daughter of an influential and enigmatic family. As she becomes entangled in their opulent world, unsettling secrets begin to surface, forcing her to question her safety, her dreams, and even her sanity.
(Courtesy of ABFF)
