DAVINCI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES 8TH EDITION OPENING NIGHT HONORING ACADEMY AWARD® NOMINEE RANDALL WALLACE WITH THE COVETED VISIONARY AWARD
A Celebration of Epic Storytelling at AMC Theaters The Grove to Feature a Red Carpet Event, Bagpipe Processional, Exclusive 'Braveheart' Screening, and Memorabilia Silent Auction
LOS ANGELES, CA — July 10. 2026 — The DaVinci International Film Festival (DIFF) today officially announced the distinguished lineup for its highly anticipated 8th Edition Opening Night celebration, taking place on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the iconic AMC Theaters at The Grove in Los Angeles. Anchoring this year’s flagship event is the presentation of DaVinci’s prestigious Visionary Award® to legendary writer, director, and producer Randall Wallace, whose cinematic masterpieces have defined a generation and shaped the landscape of epic storytelling.
The Visionary Award®, previously bestowed upon beloved industry icon Michael J. Fox in 2024 for his extraordinary achievements both on and off camera, honors exceptional creative architects of cinema whose enduring bodies of work inspire and transform global audiences. This year, DIFF turns its spotlight toward the profound power of the written word and cinematic scope by recognizing Mr. Wallace, the creative force behind some of the most culturally significant films of our time.
The evening will commence with a high-profile, media-covered Red Carpet arrivals event, gathering filmmakers, talent, and industry executives. Guests will then be ushered into the theater by a live traditional bagpipe processional, setting a stately tone before the evening's main presentation: a retrospective screening of the legendary, multi-Academy Award®-winning epic Braveheart, experienced alongside the writer himself. Following the film, attendees will be treated to a one-on-one filmmaker Q&A and an inspiring keynote address in which Mr. Wallace will chart the rigorous craft behind creating timeless, long-form historical narratives.
The highlight of the presentation will be the formal conferral of the Visionary Award® to Mr. Wallace, celebrating his unparalleled status as a master craftsman of modern classics.
"Randall Wallace is a true architect of cinema, whose work serves as a powerful inspiration for the film community," said Chadwick Pelletier, Founder and Executive Director of DIFF. "His epic storytelling has truly stood the test of time, forever defining the art of cinema. It is a profound privilege for DIFF to honor his extraordinary legacy as we kick off our eighth edition.”
Following closing remarks from Mr. Pelletier, the celebration will transition into the exclusive Opening Night Reception. The reception will feature a silent auction of premium memorabilia, showcasing a hand-signed Braveheart poster, an original screenplay, and a rare, 'Flatsigned' combined novel-screenplay autographed by Randall Wallace.
"We launch our visions into the dark, hoping they find a home in the hearts of others. To be recognized with DaVinci’s Visionary Award is a beautiful affirmation of that chase,” Wallace commented.
The DaVinci International Film Festival's 8th Edition runs from September 25–26, 2026. Given the exclusive nature of this tribute, seating at AMC Theaters The Grove is strictly limited. Film enthusiasts, industry professionals, and patrons of the arts are encouraged to secure early bird tickets immediately to guarantee access to this historic, one-of-a-kind evening. In alignment with the festival's commitment to purposeful storytelling, a portion of all ticket sales from the evening will go directly to Hollywood Habitats for Humanity, Mr. Wallace's charitable organization. To purchase early bird tickets or to learn more, please visit: https://davincifilmfestival.com/opening-night
Actor and Recording Artist Shedrack Anderson III Releases Third Album Let It Fall, A Soulful R&B Experience
From Steven Spielberg’s Hook to Fat Albert, Shedrack Anderson III continues expanding his creative legacy across film, television, and music.
Multi-talented Actor and Recording Artist Shedrack Anderson III released his new album, Let It Fall, on May 20, 2026, now streaming worldwide across all major digital platforms. Blending smooth R&B with jazz-inspired textures, melodic warmth, and uplifting rhythms, the project delivers a soulful listening experience centered on release, reflection, transformation, and emotional renewal.
The 10-track collection showcases Anderson’s continued growth as both a recording artist and storyteller. Crafted as a mood-driven body of work, Let It Fall moves effortlessly through moments of late-night drives, creative inspiration, workouts, relaxation, and introspection. Rich instrumentation, cinematic production, and emotive vocals highlight his ability to merge timeless musicianship with a contemporary R&B sound that feels both grounded and expansive.
The project blends R&B, soul, and cinematic-inspired storytelling across standout tracks including “Let It Fall,” Night Drive,” “Midnight Moan,” and “If Loving You Is Right.” Listeners can stream the album on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, TIDAL, Pandora, Deezer, and other major platforms.
In support of the release, Anderson is currently producing a music video for the title track, “Let It Fall,” scheduled for release in late summer 2026. The visual component is designed to further expand the album’s emotional atmosphere and cinematic tone.
Now on his third official album release, Anderson continues exploring themes of healing, resilience, self-discovery, and emotional connection through music. His previous project, Hamilton Park, fused soul, hip hop, jazz, classical influences, and trap production rooted in both his Southern upbringing and Juilliard-trained artistry. His earlier release, Enigmology, further established his signature sound through introspective songwriting and soulful R&B ballads.
Alongside his music career, Anderson remains active in film, recently completing work on a feature film project while preparing for an upcoming production.
A respected figure in entertainment for decades, Anderson first appeared as a Lost Boy in Steven Spielberg’s Hook before gaining national recognition as Jermaine Green in NBC’s Just Deal. He later starred as Rudy in Fat Albert, earning recognition for balancing humor, emotional depth, and commanding screen presence.
His additional credits include Gracie’s Choice alongside Kristen Bell, Anne Heche, and Diane Ladd, as well as roles in Boston Public, The Parkers, The Division, Disney’s Phil of the Future, and the independent feature Blood River, which he also wrote and directed.
Beyond performance, Anderson is a director, producer, choreographer, educator, entrepreneur, and wellness advocate. A graduate of The Juilliard School, he studied theatre, dance, and music while performing with Ballet Hispanico, Los Angeles Ballet, and Ballet Pacifica.
Actor. Singer. Musician. Director. Producer. Teacher. Entrepreneur. Husband. Father. Shedrack Anderson III continues defining the modern multi-hyphenate artist with Let It Fall, a refined and emotionally resonant musical statement rooted in purpose, discipline, and creative evolution.
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Austin Bats Basketball Claims ABA National Championship, Bringing Home Austin’s First Professional Basketball Title in Team History
South Region Champions Turn 16-0 Start Into ABA National Title, Completing One of the League’s Most Dominant Seasons
AUSTIN, Texas – May 11, 2026 — Austin Bats Basketball, a professional basketball team competing in the American Basketball Association (ABA), has officially claimed the 2025-26 ABA National Championship — marking a historic milestone for the franchise and the city of Austin. After 12 years of competition, the Austin Bats secured the title on April 11, 2026, in a hard-fought championship series led by Finals MVP JaMichael Brown, cementing their place in Austin sports history.
The championship victory is a testament to the resilience and dedication of the entire Austin Bats organization. Founded and led by owner Leticia Castillo, the team has spent over a decade building a competitive roster, a loyal fan base, and a deep connection to the Austin community. The 2025-26 ABA Champion Austin Bats are led by Head Coach Rommel Corro, whose leadership guided the team to its first national title. This year’s championship squad featured a roster of elite athletes — including former NBA player Mims O’Neal — united under a coaching staff committed to developing talent at the highest level of the game.
JaMichael Brown was named the 2025-26 ABA National Championship Finals MVP after a standout performance that proved decisive in Austin’s run to the title. Brown’s explosive play and competitive drive throughout the postseason embodied the championship-level standard that Head Coach Corro has instilled in the Austin Bats Program.
“This championship has been 12 years in the making and I could not be more proud of this team,” said Leticia Castillo, Owner of Austin Bats Basketball. “We have put in the work, year after year, and to finally bring this title home to Austin is an incredible feeling. This city has supported us and we are honored to represent Austin on a national stage.”
The Austin Bats compete in the American Basketball Association, one of the longest-running professional basketball leagues in the country, providing a platform for elite athletes to compete at the professional level. The ABA National Championship is the league’s highest honor, awarded annually to the team that demonstrates the highest level of competitive excellence throughout the season and postseason.
The championship win has already garnered recognition beyond the court. The City of Austin honored the team with four prominent community billboards celebrating the historic achievement — a reflection of the team’s growing impact on Austin’s sports and cultural landscape. The Austin Bats organization also features the Austin Bats Dance Team, whose performances and community outreach have further strengthened the franchise’s connection to its fans.
“We came into this season with one goal — to bring a championship back to Austin,” said Rommel Corro, Head Coach of Austin Bats Basketball. “This team never stopped believing in what we were building. The hard work, the sacrifices, the commitment to each other — it all came together this season and I could not be prouder of every single player and coach who was a part of this journey.”
As national champions, the Austin Bats look forward to celebrating this milestone with the Austin community in the weeks ahead. The organization invites fans, partners, and supporters to follow the team on social media for updates on upcoming events, community appearances, and championship celebrations.
For media inquiries, interview requests, and press assets, please contact Brandi Sims at Brandinc PR at brandi@brandincpr.com or (512) 222-9355. Additional information Austin Bats Basketball is available at austinbatsbasketball.com.