Annie Ilonzeh, Tyler Lepley, and Mike Merrill Join the Cast of the Exciting Thriller ‘Loving Venus’ by Director Jamal Hill and Manny Halley Productions
New Psychological Thriller "Loving Venus" Announced
Annie Ilonzeh, known for her roles in S.W.A.T. and Chicago Fire, will headline the upcoming psychological thriller Loving Venus, along with Tyler Lepley from Harlem and Mike Merrill from The Black Hamptons. The film is being produced by Manny Halley.
Joining the cast are Cassandra Freeman, recognized for Bel-Air, Sydney Mitchell from BMF, and Tobias Truvillion, noted for his work in Preach, Pray, Love.
The narrative centers on Venus (Ilonzeh), who seeks a fresh start by relocating to a new city and reconnecting with her best friend, Stephanie (Mitchell). As Venus rebuilds her life, she enters into a passionate relationship with a charismatic businessman (Lepley), whose stability offers a sense of safety and belonging. However, this newfound intimacy triggers the resurfacing of unresolved trauma, embodied by Shango (Merrill), intertwining themes of desire, protection, and memory. As the story progresses, the lines between emotional truth and reality blur, leading Venus into a chilling psychological reckoning regarding her past and the price of survival.
Jamal Hill, celebrated for Checkmate, is directing the film, having co-written the screenplay with Jay Rene. The production team includes Rodney Turner II alongside Halley, representing Manny Halley Productions, part of Imani Media Group.
Loving Venus is part of the California Film & Television Tax Credit Program and is actively seeking distributors. Halley commented, “We were intentional about assembling a cast that could bring real emotional weight, vulnerability, and edge to the characters in this twisted tale. With Jamal at the helm and a sharp script penned by Jay, we’re excited to bring audiences an elevated thriller that feels fresh and uncomfortably relatable.”
Imani Media Group previously produced Aftershock: The Nicole P Bell Story, which premiered in theaters nationwide in November 2025, coinciding with the anniversary of Sean Bell’s murder.
