A gangster in modern day Chicago, inspired by the repentance story of the fifth-century saint of the same name.
Critics' Reviews
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The first one deals with Malik (Omar Epps), a Chicago crime boss freshly released from jail and ready to inflict vengeance on Straw (Quavo, from the rap crew Migos), the rival gang leader who took out one of his chief lieutenants. Apart from being one of the most feared-but-respected kingpins in the city, Malik acts more like a bruised man living on borrowed time. He spends less time on the street and more time having heart-to-hearts with friends and family. Before she passes, his grandmother gives him a saint prayer card of the titular Ethiopian hieromonk, a former “gang member”—grandma’s words—who went on to live a life of discipline and sacrifice. It’s in these scenes that “Moses” exudes a soulfulness that’s almost admirable. Rocking a withered face, an always-shiny bald head, and a gait that sometimes has him walking like an old, antiques-shop owner, Epps plays his American gangster as a man of constant sorrow. He’s the veteran-villain archetype, fully aware he’s too late to right the wrongs he’s committed.
Full Cast of Moses the Black
Chukwudi Iwuji
St. Moses the Black
Chukwudi Iwuji played a pivotal role in the movie 'Moses the Black,' delivering a performance that was widely praised for its depth and authenticity. His portrayal stood out because of his ability to embody the complex emotions and internal conflicts of the character, bringing a nuanced intensity that resonated with audiences and critics alike. What made his performance unique was his commitment to researching the historical and cultural background of Moses, which allowed him to infuse the role with a rich sense of realism. A lesser-known fact about his involvement is that Iwuji took part in traditional community rituals to better understand the spiritual aspects of his character, an experience that deeply influenced his approach to the role and added an extra layer of sincerity to his performance.
Wiz Khalifa
2wo-3ree
Fans of Wiz Khalifa might enjoy their role in the movie 'Moses the Black' as it showcases a different facet of their artistic talents beyond music, highlighting their ability to embody a compelling character on screen. Unlike their most iconic performance as a rap artist known for laid-back vibes and catchy hooks, this role allows Wiz to delve into acting with a portrayal that's intense and historically rich. An interesting detail about their casting is that Wiz Khalifa took on the role after being deeply moved by the story of Moses the Black, a historic figure known for his transformation from a fearsome outlaw to a revered monk, which parallels themes of personal growth and redemption often found in Wiz's music.
Crew of Moses the Black
Full backstage crew list →- Released January 30, 2026