Statement Films

Feb 7, 2023

Women-led startup Statement Films secures $750k backing from Magic Johnson, Samuel L Jackson & LaTanya Richardson Jackson Areej Noor Statement Films, the women-led entertainment start-up, has secured $750,000 seed funding, with contributions from NBA star Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson, Hollywood actor Samuel L Jackson and director & producer LaTanya Richardson Jackson. Founded by writer, producer, and political analyst, Areej Noor, Statement Films sources, develops and presents a pipeline of African-women-led IP to international buyers, bridging the gap between African and Diaspora women filmmakers and the global market. “I grew up exposed to incredibly creative and powerful stories of African women, but I felt they were still underserved by Western media and the entertainment elite — that is why I founded Statement Films,” said Noor. “Having the support of Hollywood, sports, and business titans gives us the momentum to establish new and equitable pathways for the explosive female talent coming from the continent.” The company raised $750,000 for the pre-seed round that included the aforementioned high-profile names as well as business leaders Robyn & Tony Coles and Vicki & John Palmer. The investment will help Statement Films to scale its the current offering into a media and insights business that increases the visibility of African creatives while its production arm remains focused on building a pipeline for female filmmakers on the continent and in the diaspora. “I am incredibly excited to be a part of the journey with Statement Films. The company is doing such important work to fill a long overdue gap in the industry. We can look forward with optimism to the future of African women in film,” added Samuel L Jackson.