Following his false arrest during the 1965 Watts riots, Richard Kelly (NAACP Best Actor winner Cedric Sanders) must serve a two-semester probation at an all-white racist seminary. Inspired by a true story, the school’s first black student is welcomed by its progressive president Alan Beckett (William Devane, West Wing, Payback). But Richard soon learns that the school wants black followers not leaders. Even former missionary, Kate Allison (NCIS’ Lauren Holly), rejects him. Facing a decision that will land him in prison, Richard meets Samuel Benton (Oscar ® winner Louis Gossett, Jr.), an elderly janitor who lives in the basement of Richard’s dormitory. As Samuel guides Richard through the trials of racism and his personal demons, Richard has to choose between his dreams and his destiny.

Samuel Benton Academy Award ® Winner, Louis Gossett, Jr. has been a professional actor for 57 years. Starring in films such as AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN, ENEMY MINE, and IRON EAGLE, Lou is also dedicated to The Eracism Foundation. His organization inspires multi-cultural awareness, fortifies devastated communities, and enriches the lives of children and parents struggling to survive violence in America. This is why he was so drawn to THE LEAST AMONG YOU in which he plays a spiritual mentor to a young, black man who has lost it all. Its message of hope and the power of a person to ‘leave footprints in the garden’ is one that is close to his heart; it’s the experience he strives to give to others through The Eracism Foundation. In February 2008, The Society of St. Vincent de Paul presented Lou with its 100th Anniversary Humanitarian Award. THE LEAST AMONG YOU is a timely movie about a person at a crossroads who is about to quit. Gossett Jr. was attracted to the role of Samuel, the janitor, because he is such an inspiring character. Says Lou, “my favorite lines are, ‘I want to do more than just be a janitor. I want to make a difference in someone’s life. I want to leave some footprints in the garden.”’

Lou was touched by the message that we are all here on the planet for a reason, and have the ability to touch the life of another person. Lou thought it was an amazing experience to work with young talent Cedric Sanders. “Cedric is only going to get bigger. He is focused, educated, and serious… he is all eyes and ears. I like that he digs deep, and each day he just does better and better. He is going to be spectacular.” Lou also thought it was a joy to work with Director Mark Young. “He has brought his script to screen in a beautiful, gorgeous way. He really listens to our input too, which is nice. Mark doesn’t have a bad spot in him.” “The good intention of the script spilled over to the crew. The amazing message of making a positive difference on someone inspired all of us,” says Lou.

Kate Allison Lauren Holly was born on October 28 1963 in Bristol, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Geneva High School in Geneva, New York with the class of 1981 where she was a cheerleader, and attended Sarah Lawrence College where she graduated in 1985 with a degree in English Literature. “I thought it’d be interesting to play such a strong, independent woman. She seemed a little bit ahead of her time. Yet, she had gone through so much tragedy, and a sort of folding up, like a piece of paper,” Lauren said about her character. Holly is currently known as Jenny Shepard on the USA hit TV drama NCIS. She also starred in the TV Series PICKET FENCES AND CHICAGO HOPE. Holly was nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award for her role in the Drama Series for ALL MY CHILDREN (1970). Lauren has starred in hit films such as ANY GIVEN SUNDAY (1999), BEAUTIFUL GIRLS (1996) and WHAT WOMEN WANT (2000). She won an MTV Movie Award for DUMB & DUMBER (1994).

Alan Beckett William Devane was born in Albany, New York, and graduated from New York City's American Academy of Dramatic Arts. He made his Broadway debut in "The Watering Place" with Shirley Knight. His Broadway directorial effort, the Vietnam War drama "G. R. Point," lasted for 32 performances in 1979 and brought Michael Jeter a 1979 Theatre World Award. He made his movie debut as a revolutionary in the film IN THE COUNTRY and began appearing on series TV. His reputation was made when he portrayed President John F. Kennedy in the THE MISSILES OF OCTOBER, a 1973 telefilm about the Cuban Missile Crisis. Devane also starred in Alfred Hitchcock's FAMILY PLOT and John Schlesinger's MARATHON MAN (both 1976), as well as roles in Schlesinger's YANKS and the TV adaptation of James Jones' classic barracks drama FROM HERE TO ETERNITY. Devane moved over to nighttime series TV, playing the cad Greg Sumner on the soap opera KNOTS LANDING for 10 years. Due to his resemblance to President Kennedy and his ability to master a Boston accent, Devane continues to be

in demand as politicians, including presidents, in such shows as THE WEST WING, 24, and STARGATE SG-1. Devane was drawn to this film’s extraordinary message. “The message gives you a reason to do it. After doing so many movies, in the end, the message sets this film apart from the rest,” he says.

Richard Kelly Born in Anchorage, Alaska, Cedric Sanders won the 2008 Best Lead Male Award at the 18th Annual NAACP Theatre Awards, for his stellar lead performance as “Johnson C. Whittaker” in 6-time nominated play, A MATTER OF HONOR. After seeing Sanders in the outstanding play, Director Mark Young cast him as the lead opposite Academy Award ® Winner Louis Gossett, Jr. in his feature film, THE LEAST AMONG YOU. Cedric Sanders' breakout film was Producer Morris S. Levy’s THE TEN, and shortly thereafter landed a role in AMERICAN GANGSTER opposite Denzel Washington. With an impressive start, Sanders has also appeared in the HBO movie LIFE SUPPORT starring Queen Latifah, and guest starred on both LAW & ORDER and CRIMINAL INTENT. Sanders attended Howard University, a prestigious black university, and was taught by Al Freeman Jr. Sanders was attracted to the heart of this film,

and immediately connected to the character of Richard. Faith is something important in his own life, and he believes it is essential to everyday growth in life. Although he hasn’t faced the amount of racism that Richard does in the film, he knows people who have. “I’ve heard stories from my parents who grew up in the South,” says Sanders, “and experienced the subtle stabs of exclusion and inequality.” Sanders felt like he and the character of Richard were intertwined from the start. He also stopped partying and read the bible more, to help get him focused and ever more into the character. As for the cast, Sanders was most wowed by Gossett Jr.’s kind heart. “He is a man of magnificent caliber, but has no attitude whatsoever,” he says. With the other cast members, it felt like college again. Their friendship and trust in each other made it easier to do the tough stuff. Sanders thought it was great working with Director Mark Young, as it felt like they were both growing and going through the experience together. He admired Producer Julia Verdin’s passion and attachment to the story. She wanted the story to be told, and her dedication to the film had a great effect on the production value. Sanders plans to take on more lead roles of this type in the future.

Fred Leak John Brently Reynolds is an Oklahoma native, who, like his character in the film, is from a very small town. One of his favorite quotes from the film is “why don’t you try to understand people before you try and save them.” Reynolds relates it to Martin Luther King’s success during the Civil Rights Era, as Dr. King he tried to understand the oppressors; he took a walk in the other man’s shoes. Reynolds is known for his role in LIONS FOR LAMBS, and guest roles on the hit TV show CSI.

Roscoe Cory has starred in numerous TV hits including HEROES, THE SHIELD, NYPD BLUE and LINCOLN HEIGHTS. Corey didn’t stay on the small screen long, from there he appeared in NEVER BEEN KISSED starring Drew Barrymore, CRAZY/BEAUTIFUL, HOLLYWOOD HORROR, and the upcoming films HE’S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU starring Jennifer Anniston and Ben Affleck and Clint Eastwood’s GRAN TORINO.

Ruth Kelly Siena Goines, a native of Washington DC, is a talented actress who has appeared in numerous TV programs and films. Siena has had recurring roles in several CBS dramas including JERICHO, JUDGING AMY and THE DIVISION. She has guest-starred on the soap opera PASSIONS and played the role of Callie Rogers on the CBS daytime soap opera, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS where she earned an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Actress in a Daytime Drama. Siena has

made a name for herself appearing on TV series including CHARMED, CHICAGO HOPE, and THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN. She appeared in Ellen DeGeneres' MY SHORT FILM for American Express in 2004.

Nick Giffuni Bernardo De Paula was born in NYC, and started out with NY Stage acting. He later portrayed Jesus Christ on RESCUE ME (Season 2), starred in LOVE MONKEY, and the new TV series, ZIT (pilot by Steven Weber). De Paula hopes audiences see the

importance of humanity in us all. “We are all the same despite race, religion, money. We are all on this planet together, and I believe that life is a journey of finding out what makes us all the same,” he says.

Bill Nicolas Levene attended Oxford University where he studied English and Russian. He acted in 15 Short Films in London, and starred in his first feature film ST PETERSBURG CAN EXPRESS in Russia. He has been acting professionally for about

a year. Levene played Joe Orton, in the play ENTERTAINING MR. SLOAN at the Malibu Stage Company, where Levene was spotted by director Mark Young. Levene was singled out in LA Times, Critics’ Choice Reviews, and featured in SENSE Magazine.

Director/Writer Director Mark Young began as an advertising executive in New York City, working for ad agencies Young & Rubicam and SSC&B on a variety of accounts. He later developed marketing campaigns for Pepsi Cola International, including the international Clio award winning “Pepsi is Today,” plus other campaigns featuring Michael Jackson, Tina Turner and Madonna. He was Managing Director at Big Picture Productions for Granada Television, London, where he produced and distributed live music events across Europe. Mark wrote the book, SUN BEAR, the true story about an Navajo-American spy during World War II, who was captured by the Gestapo and survived the terrors of Dachau concentration camp. He also wrote and directed the comedy short, THE SPHERE OF TRUTH. THE LEAST

AMONG YOU is Young’s first feature film, which he wrote, produced and directed.

I met the real Richard Kelly in 1993. His name is Rev. Dr. Charles Marks. Charles had just given an inspirational speech about overcoming racism, this on the heels of the LA riots. Sitting next to him at lunch, I mentioned the idea of mentors and with a twinkle in his eye, Charles recounted his memories of Samuel, “God’s basement apostle.” His story hit me on two levels: that of a young black man in 1965, who had already overcome a world of adversity, being thrown into a lion’s den and having to prove himself to people who hated him. Followed by the least likely person on campus, an ex-alcoholic janitor, becoming his wise man and counselor. But seventy-four-year-old Samuel also had a dream and a destiny – to make a difference in this world, to leave a few footprints in the garden. The story was difficult to write for the screen as the racism was more implied than physical – the insidious kind that says you’re a second-class citizen, you’re just lucky to be here. But in the 60’s, young black men trying to succeed often had to fight the battle on two fronts: caught between the white neighborhood that didn’t want him, and the

black one that resented him. That’s this story – a man without a country, but one who won’t let go of his dreams. Who won’t quit until he finds meaning. Once Julia and I finally raised the funds, the project came together very fast. Lou was the first to say yes, followed by Lauren and Bill. The film seemed to sprout up under us and quickly take a life of its own. We were fortunate that such quality actors and key crew talent responded to the script so strongly, especially given that it’s not the typical genre that gets people heated up. Everyone on the film had their own unique take on the story, which made it much more interesting to make. It was very rewarding for me to see such gifted people take ownership of their characters and propel them beyond the writing on the page. Characters I’d spent twelve years thinking about were crystallized in a moment. This combined with the talent and integrity of DP Zoran Popovic, editor Omar Daher and composer Mark Kilian, plus Julia Verdin’s production expertise and intuitive ability to keep us on course, enabled us to press this film out at every level. In the end, I hope people young and old can appreciate Richard and Samuel and take away their message – everyone has a unique reason for being on this earth, and it’s a treasure worth fighting for.

Producer

British Film Producer Julia Verdin has established herself as one of Hollywood’s leading independent producers after the critical success of the film STANDER (2004) that received rave reviews at Sundance and Toronto. She was also a producer on MERCHANT OF VENICE with Al Pacino and Jeremy Irons and RIDING THE BULLET with David Arquette and Barbara Hershey. To date she has produced 26 films. Verdin was inspired to make THE LEAST AMONG YOU because of its strong positive message, emphasizing that “we all should have the courage to follow our convictions. One must go deep to find out who one is. It is a beautiful story of mentorship, and

finding one’s own personal faith,” she says, “One reason I went into filmmaking was to make a difference, and one of my company’s goals is to make some films that enhance good values and social consciousness. This one fell under that brief.” Her friendship with Director Mark Young also secured her dedication to the film. “It’s funny, he actually pitched the story to me while walking our dogs up Runyon Canyon,” says Verdin. “It was a beautiful peaceful environment to hear this inspiring story and I could see Mark was really passionate about this project.” Verdin also likes this film because it gives people a sense of purpose in the world. “I believe that in life things happen for a reason, and people are put in your life for a reason. We have to have faith in that and know that whatever happens in our lives – we always have a choice about how we deal with things. If we can keep positive and in faith, no matter what happens we can get through it,” she says. As an eternal optimist, the mentor relationship between Sam and Richard moved Verdin deeply. Sam uses his life experiences to inspire Richard, showing him that one can turn a bad situation into a positive one. Verdin agrees, “Perception is everything, so one’s attitude can carry one through tough times.” Verdin noticed that Gossett’s manner on set reflected his character’s personality. “It was a joy to watch Lou on set, as he always brought good energy with him everyday and was always giving the young actors advice and inspirational books, very much in keeping with the character he was playing.” “Mark has made a beautiful film with a beautiful message – this was a film made with a lot of dedication and passion and pure motives from all involved and it was a delight and joy to be a part of and involved in a film like this.”

Director of Photography

Cinematographer, Zoran Popovic is most known for his work on WAR, INC., FEEL THE NOISE, and THE LOST. Popovic was drawn to the script because it was a story relatable to everyone, despite various individual differences. The essence of the story is of a man finding himself. Popovic’s vision of this film was that of a spiritual journey of self-discovery, which is broken down visually into three basic looks. First there is childhood, which is painful and confusing; then the journey to seminary school where Richard first tries to go with the flow of “proper money and politics” and feels quite claustrophobic; and finally Richard meets Sam, who becomes his mentor and savior (like John the Baptist).

Visually, Popovic aimed to follow Richard’s path, slowly opening the view of the lens as Richard became more open to the world around him. What started off as a lonely journey at the drab correctional facility, transforms into a pleasant experience at the beautiful Mt. St Mary location when Sam comes into Richard’s life. He utilized the lens to open the frame at the same pace as Richard allows himself to open up and form intimate connections. At the end, there is a feeling of belonging, which is paralleled with the full inclusion of Richard in the shots and scenery. With only 18 days to shoot, 12 of which were in the correctional facility, Popovic had to make every second of footage count. There were many shots of the interiors, which worked because of the visual concept of isolating Richard from the rest. The second location, Mount St. Mary College provided a drastic contrast to the correctional facility. There was this beautiful location, in which Richard feels absolutely miserable. It is a great combination, with the location producing what the scene demands. Popovic explains that Mount St. Mary College is a key character in the film, and with the help of costume and set designers, adds a unique touch to this special film. The location provides an intimacy that sets the stage for the interpersonal relationships that have developed on and off screen. “Mark was very specific to what he wanted visually, and this location encapsulates and enhances the production value on screen; it is as important as casting one of the main characters,” says Popovic. Popovic walks away from this film with the lesson to follow his inner voice. He also learned that we are a product of our culture, our parents, and we everyday face barriers that prevent us from being true to ourselves. For example, in the film Richard thinks he is one thing, but listens to his inner voice, and in time is able to open his heart and embrace his true destiny. “When a person finds this inner connection, it just makes life even better,” says Popovic.

Composer

Mark Kilian has traversed the globe in efforts to record perfect scores. He gained notoriety for the score he co-composed with Paul Hepker for the Oscar Winning Foreign Film, TSOTSI. Kilian and Hepker returned to their African roots to record the music and returned to work with director Gavin Hood last year for New Line’s RENDITION, which they recorded in Morocco and South Africa. Last year Kilian independently scored BEFORE THE RAINS for which he traveled to India to research and record the

music. He also wrote the music for Michael Skolnik’s award-winning documentary WITHOUT THE KING which was recorded in South Africa. Currently, Kilian’s score can be heard in the first production by Overture Films TRAITOR starring Academy Award nominee Don Cheadle and Guy Pearce. The South African native began piano and guitar studies at an early age. He continued his studies at the University of Natal in Durban under Professor Darius Brubeck [son of legendary jazz musician Dave Brubeck]. During the early ‘90s, Kilian spearheaded the popular Durban band Shades, which was one of the foremost club jazz bands to break the color barrier in South Africa. He went on to perform with artists like Shirley Bassey, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Airto Moreira and the Brubeck brothers. He toured the US and Europe and recorded two albums with Darius Brubeck as Gathering Forces and the NU Jazz Connection. After earning a Bachelor of Music, he moved to the U.S. for the film-scoring program at the University of Southern California. Kilian was then recruited by instructor and legendary film composer Christopher Young (Spiderman 3) as an electronic score producer and composer's assistant for SPECIES, COPYCAT, VIRTUOSITY and HARD RAIN. In 1997, Kilian scored his first film, LOVERGIRL, starring Sandra Bernhard. Since then he has written music for many features including KING SOLOMONS MINES, ICON, BLIND HORIZON, SKULLS 3, THE ANIMATRIX and RAISE YOUR VOICE. His TV credits include ABC's Daybreak and Jake in Progress, Kitchen Confidential (Fox), FX: The Series (Rysher) and Boarding House: The Northshore (WB). He has also provided music for the video games The Matrix: Path of Neo and Full Spectrum Warrior. Mark has worked as an orchestrator, arranger and conductor for Paul Oakenfold, Rob D and Juno Reactor on THE MATRIX: RELOADED film.

Production Designer

Production Designer, Chris Giammalvo, has worked on Film projects such as ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE, PARK (Ricky Lake, Cheri Oteri), as the TV series CRANK YANKERS, MUSICIANS, BRAVO, FREE RADIO, and well as on hundreds of music videos. Giammalvo’s biggest challenge in designing for the film was creating something plausible and authentic. The film is a period piece, set in a high-end theological seminary, but really shot at a men’s prison. He did, however, find the research to be extremely enlightening and interesting. He went to the library and looked through Sears and Montgomery catalogs for industrial furniture, textiles, and patterns of 1955-1965. They were looking for furniture from the ‘40’s because we had to design for a poor, African American family who wouldn’t necessarily have the newest designs of 1965; their items would be more dated. For Giammalvo, this story is a reminder that for every Rosa Parks, Black Panther, or Martin Luther King who is larger than life, there is also a Richard Kelly; someone who may not have gained fame for his actions, but was the first at something. Richard represents the everyday person, and how they dealt with the revolutionary Civil Rights movement. He is every black man who made the choice to not just settle, but to do something really great with his life.

Costume Designer

Costume Designer Alycia Belle is most known for her work on the films PLEASURE DRIVERS (Lauren Holly), SURF SCHOOLS, READY OR NOT, WICKED LAKE, THE BOX, STAR STORIES VH1 pilot, CASA BLANCA and music videos for recording artists such as Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire. Belle was drawn to the project by the beautiful script and its’ message. It is a period piece, which she knew would make the costumes interesting and different. Belle’s biggest challenge in working on this Indie Film was the time crunch. With only thirty script days, she had to plan ahead for all the outfits/ costume changes for all characters. Luckily everything fit pretty well, although she had to get creative with certain skinny tie looks and pant lengths. Belle also had the challenge of capturing two completely different worlds, with two totally different cultural elements. On one hand there were the ‘Watts ghetto’ outfits, on the complete opposite side of the spectrum, the preppy environment in the seminary. Overall, we “pulled off a real and authentic look, giving the characters an innocence and goofiness that perfectly balances the serious tone of the film,” says Belle.

Editor

Omar has worked on the hit films THIR13EN GHOSTS, NAILED, THE PROPHESY II and MUSIC FROM ANOTHER ROOM. With only 18 days to shoot the film Omar was kept very busy editing while the film was still in production. Undaunted he rose to the challenge and learned something along the way. “I had a very tight schedule at the beginning so I was busy editing the film while Mark was shooting. After the shooting stopped Mark and I went through the film and reshaped it to his final cut. What's amazing about this

particular project is that every time I viewed a scene or the film in its entirety I winded up learning more about myself and about other people.” Omar had a great experience working with Director Mark Young, THE LEAST AMONG YOU was a very inspiring story with a good script and a director who understood his characters. I hope that people see this film and learn something from it.” Omar is currently working on a new film directed by Werner Herzog entitled Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans. This film stars Hollywood heavyweights Nicolas Cage, Val Kilmer and Eva Mendes.

By Director Mark Young and Producer Julia Verdin

On Casting Cedric Sanders: Director Mark Young discovered Cedric Sanders in the way Hollywood dreams are often made. Mark recalls that he was in Starbucks drinking coffee and reading the LA Times, when he came across a feature story about the play MEN OF HONOR, in which Cedric was starring. Mark decided to see the play and was so impressed he cast Cedric immediately. Cedric later won the NAACP Theatre Award for the Leading Male category. “We were so impressed with Cedric. We actually auditioned many actors for the role of Richard, but Cedric has this power presence that stood out. He has this mix of nobility, humility, and innocence that is such a joy to watch.” On Casting Louis Gossett: “He was definitely the first choice for the role, because Louis is the character of Samuel. He is a real life mentor to so many, and Samuel was a role that was so made for him. Louis was 100% behind this film from day one.” On Casting Lauren Holly: “She is a dramatic actress that brought texture to the complicated role of Kate. She (Lauren) brought strong and creative ideas to the character.” On Casting William Devane: “He brings an engrossing mixture of charm and authority to his complex character as well. He is professional and charming, and hits every beat each time. He’s great.” On the Joy of Making An Indie Film: “We like working on Indie films because you have the freedom to make the movie you want to make, without executives constantly looking over your shoulder. This film in particular, was such a collaborative medium, where everyone’s thoughts were brought to the table. And the enthusiasm from the actors is unbeatable. They are all really excited to be here, because they really believe in the film.” On Memorable Moments: “Watching the very moving scenes on film. At these moments a silence comes over the set, and everyone is just mesmerized by the actors’ work. Cedric is just so good; he is one of those young actors that shine through. The mentor relationship between Louis and Cedric is amazing as well. It mirrors their characters, and it shows in their work. I, as well as everyone else, am thrilled to work with Louis Gossett Jr. He is such a delight to have on set, and the causes he is involved with make him all the more inspiring. These young actors, I hope, have been encouraged by his mentoring and will use their celebrity to good ends as well.” On the Heartfelt Moments On Set: “Observing the comradeship that formed between the young actors. They made this amazing connection to each other, which is wonderful. Film brings people together both on and off set.”

Lauren Holly (Kate Allison)

William Devane (Alan Beckett)

Louis Gossett, Jr. (Samuel Benton), Cedric Sanders (Richard Kelly)

Cedric Sanders (Richard Kelly)

Nicholas Levene (Bill), Carter MacIntyre (James), Cedric Sanders (Richard Kelly) Bernardo De Paula (Nick)

Bernardo De Paula (Nick), John Brently Reynolds (Fred Leak) Cedric Sanders (Richard Kelly)

Cedric Sanders (Richard Kelly), Louis Gossett, Jr. (Samuel Benton)

MARKETING / PR:

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