(LOVELADIES, NJ) -- Mississippi Scholar is a powerful new drama that reveals the grit and grace of "James," a gifted, underprivileged student facing seemingly insurmountable odds as he struggles to secure a brighter future for himself through education. The film will be screened by Lighthouse International Film Society on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at the Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences. Showtime is 7:30pm.

Directed by Marcus Bleeker, and co-produced by P.J. Leonard, along with former NFL star and executive producer Marcus Dupree, the film highlights the story of this Mississippi high school senior who must face the pressures of gang recruitment, family addiction, and poverty to realize his dream.

With standout performances by Shannon Brown, Obba Babatundé, Sonny Marinelli and Marcus Dupree, Mississippi Scholar explores themes of perseverance, social inequality and the power of hope. 

Winner of Best Feature Film at the 2024 Beverly Hills Film Festival, Mississippi Scholar is an inspirational film for students and teachers alike, a feel-good testament to the transformative power of perseverance and personal achievement hard won.

Co-producer P.J. Leonard is a long-time friend and supporter of the Lighthouse International Film Festival. His first feature film, The Immaculate Misconception, gained wide recognition and was followed by The Fallen Faithful and Chu & Blossom, all of which have screened on LBI at the Lighthouse International Film Festival. Following the screening, Mr. Leonard will participate in an audience Q&A.

Admission is $12 online/$15 at door LIFSociety Members Free. Tickets are available for purchase online. LIFSociety recognizes the vital role educators play in students' lives. To honor their impact, this screening is free for educators. Register with your faculty email and use the code EDU. One free ticket per person. Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences is located at 120 Long Beach Blvd in Loveladies, New Jersey.

The Lighthouse International Film Festival is an award-winning film festival will take place on Long Beach Island, New Jersey June 4-8, 2025.