Heartlanta Journal

Free RSVP, movies, and free wine will catch anyone’s attention, especially creatives. It’s rare to find events that feel this accessible. But what made the night linger wasn’t just the cost (or lack of it); it was the atmosphere.

Cinema de Bleu offers free screenings of black films in a space that felt calm, cozy, and deeply communal. The intimacy of the room easily invited conversation. That’s how I found myself reconnecting with a familiar face, Kara, mid-conversation, mid-sip as we discussed her role in one of the films.

Why is this event free?

“I take care of my people,” Joc repeated, casually, as we admired the setup.

Joc Traylor and DeMario Gay are the hosts behind Cinema de Bleu, but their work extends beyond that. As the co-owners of The Blue Room Studio, their presence carries both a casual comfort and ease.

Joc: “As the economy worsens, black filmmakers get pushed out of these spaces with less access,” he shared. “I want there to be a space for us to appreciate black creators, emerging ones too. We put out casting calls often. We all know what it’s like to be the small guy starting out, so I want to support this initiative as much as I can.”

Welcoming and grounded, they moved between conversations and coordination effortlessly; open, but always building.

As the night unfolded, Demario echoed a similar sentiment, and added on how we can continue free events.

“Turnout is important. As a non-profit, it means everything for future funding. We got films and drinks, we just tryna get more people in here now! Summer’s coming too, so we want to up the frequency and host more events where we sit, vibe, and watch what we’ve made. Y’all just keep pulling up.”

No spoilers, just impressions

Thanks to their hospitality, we sipped our Merlot from custom Cinema de Bleu flutes and settled in for a night of four short films.

Yellow by Soléil Cherie

As a poetic exploration of emotional recovery, this film follows a girl rebuilding her relationship with herself after a breakup. Moving with verse, the film shifts from sadness to engagement to affirmation. By the end, it doesn’t simply resolve, it reassures us. (IG: @sol_tied22)

Accountability Partners by Max Lloyd

A sharp, comedic “what if”: what happens when we outsource the emotional labor of our relationships? A unique Black Mirror-esque reality without the heavy, dark themes. When one arrangement inevitably goes off track, it set us up for a great time of laughter and questions. (IG: @bymaxlloyd)

RAMP by Kadeem Marron

A soft, romantic story rooted in skate culture and quiet intimacy. Centered on two skaters falling into love through shared rituals, the film feels like a Southern, stripped-down cousin of You, Me & Tuscany. Light, specific, and tender. It’s young love without spectacle, just presence. (IG: @kadeemmarron)

93 Days With You by Joc Traylor

Following two couples balancing creative ambition and personal relationships, the film explores tension with humor that feels distinctly Atlanta. The longest of the four films, but it kept us engaged the entire time. Funny, grounded, and visually alive in a way that keeps you with it. (IG: @bigjocatl)

Closing

In the end, the directors share their intent and message behind their works, then we’re able to speak with everyone involved afterwards: the actors, musicians, production teams. I wasn’t a film-maker myself; however I felt equally welcome.

So, if you want to meet film creators, music artists, directors, or simply make friends without pressure while admiring upcoming talent in Atlanta, Cinema de Bleu is a perfect place to take a friend, sip some wine, and admire the indie talent in Atlanta. You might find your favorite short film— all for free.