A new film, “Moses The Black,” has brought the story of an Orthodox Christian saint to Chicago’s West Side, reimagining it in a contemporary setting. Released last week, the movie stars Omar Epps as Malik, a gang leader who seeks redemption after being released from prison. Directed by Yelena Popovic and executive produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, the cast also includes rappers Wiz Khalifa and Quavo.
The production was filmed throughout the West Side and in Champaign, Illinois. Local businesses are featured prominently, and area residents were involved in ensuring authenticity. Former gang affiliates contributed as consultants to accurately depict the community.
The film is inspired by Moses the Black, a fourth-century Egyptian Nubian who led a violent gang before repenting and becoming a monk. According to Popovic, this story shaped her vision for the film.
“‘Moses the Black’ was inspired to help those that feel there is no way out, people that are in bondage, people that feel that [they] cannot get a second chance in life,” Popovic told Block Club. “To have a living example that not only you can get a second chance to be forgiven, but you can have a meaningful and joyful life and life of service — that was my main inspiration.”
Popovic began writing the script in 2018 while considering how to adapt an ancient story for modern audiences. She decided on Chicago as the setting after struggling with making fourth-century Egypt relatable today.
“I needed to tell a story of a present-day situation where people can relate, and this is why I told the story of a gangster in Chicago,” she said.
The narrative follows Malik as he attempts to balance his role within his old crew with his newfound faith after prison. Flashbacks portray scenes from Moses’s life in Egypt; Chukwudi Iwuji plays Moses alongside Epps’s character. Other cast members include Corey Hendrix as Malik’s lieutenant and Deontay Wilder as part of Malik’s gang.
Authentic representation was important for Popovic. She worked closely with Reginald Berry—a former West Side gang chief who leads Saving Our Sons—and other locals with similar backgrounds.
Chris Eubanks portrays Duck, an older retired gang member offering guidance based on personal experience growing up near Douglass Park amid violence. He reflected on changes he has witnessed: “When I was a kid living out west, there wasn’t nearly as much shooting,” Eubanks said. “There was a lot of gang banging and fighting moreso.… Now everybody got a gun or two, and everybody’s shooting.” As creative consultant for the film, Eubanks incorporated real mentorship lessons into its storyline.
Filming locations included various sites across Austin such as Shoe Shine King on Madison Street and intersections like Springfield Avenue at Madison Street plus areas under CTA stops at Pulaski Road/Lake Street.
During an interview on “The Breakfast Club,” Popovic expressed appreciation for working on location: “I could never be grateful enough for the joy you have given me. I felt alive.” She thanked Berry for supporting her work locally; Berry praised her efforts:
Popovic “was able to give a master class. She took guys who were literally on the corners, selling drugs, trying to rap … and literally put them in front of the world,” Berry said. “She took some rappers and trusted them to become thespians. And I was right there with my foot down to make sure they kept it authentic.”
“Moses The Black” is currently screening at local theaters.
