Award-winning filmmaker and actress Angela Matemotja strikes a distribution deal with indie film specialist Gravitas Ventures for her celebrated feature, Elevate. Slated for an on-demand release, including iTunes, Amazon Prime Video and Google Play beginning July 2. Glen Reynolds of Circus Road Films negotiated the deal on behalf of Matemotja Productions.

Elevate delivers a drama of intertwining stories about people who must fight to overcome their struggles with homophobia, food addiction and racism.

Elevate marked the feature film debut for Matemotja, who picked-up numerous accolades since premiering it last Fall on the festival circuit, including:

  • Best Inspirational Feature Film winner: Golden State Film Festival
  • Best Director winner (Angela Matemotja): Rainbow Umbrella LGBTQ Film Festival
  • Female Pioneer Award winner (Angela Matemotja): Downtown Los Angles Film Festival
  • Best Leading Actress in a Feature Film winner (Angela Matemotja): Accolade Global Film Competition
  • Best Feature Film nomination: Silver Screen International Film Festival

Elevate follows Trina (Matemotja), an overweight elevator switchboard operator who desperately tries to accomplish just one day of healthy eating. Overwhelmed by her abusive boss and by the trapped elevator occupants that reach out to her for help, her fitness guru provides the inspiration and escape that she craves – or does she? Ultimately, all of the occupants in this trapped world find themselves caught face-to-face with their inner demons.

The film also stars Brianna Brown (CW’S Dynasty), Kit Williamson (creator/star of award-winning and Emmy nominated LGBTQ series Eastsiders), Alexis Carra (ABC’s Mixology) and Matemotja (Tyler Perry’s Single Mom’s Club).

Elevate was produced by Matemotja under her Matemotja Productions banner, along with producer Dele Ogundiran.

Matemotja is excited to partner with Gravitas Ventures and get the film out to the global masses, adding, “We’ve had so much fun at film festivals, but the idea that anyone, from anywhere can watch Elevate from the comfort of their own home is just mind blowing. This is a dream come true, creating something, starring in it and having it available for everyone to see. I really hope the issues (racism, homophobia and self-love) tackled in this film will resonate with audiences. I’m so incredibly proud of this project and grateful for every single person who helped make this happen!”