Up in Harlem ( 2004 )

In a Harlem family, struggling to survive in the ghetto, Fay Mulberry (Milira Jones) is an ambitious teen who is determined to escape the heartbreaking cycle of drugs and violence that has become a scourge on the streets she calls home. Her hopes of escape depend upon the promise of a college scholarship, but Fay finds her narrow window of opportunity closing fast. A brief romance with a smooth-talking drug dealer (Robert Laney) causes Fay to lose sight of her goal and forces her into a compromising decision she's not ready to face. Before she knows it, Fay's dreams are shattered, and when opposing forces meet, it is a regrettable day for all involved. Special appearances include rap legend Ice-T, Vaughn Harper, Crazy Sam, Caribbean rap sensation Mad Lion, and recording artist Milira Jones.—Paul E. Eliacin