Boss XL Magazine Exclusive: "Vanished" — A Powerful Film Demanding Action for Our Missing Black Women

Atlanta recently became the backdrop for a powerful cinematic moment as “Vanished” premiered at Silverspot Cinema at The Battery. Presented by MegaMind Media, Audra Nicole Productions, and Reel Rebel Films, the official viewing event brought together creatives, advocates, and community leaders for more than just a film screening — it sparked an urgent conversation

"Vanished", now streaming on Tubi, is a modern-day thriller with a deeply real-world message. Starring Shaquita Smith (known for Wicked City), O’Shea Russell (All the Queen’s Men), and Erica Pinkett (First Wives Club, BMF), the film explores what happens when a woman disappears — and how quickly society moves on when the missing face looks like ours.

But this film refuses to let us look away.

A Story That Reflects a Harsh Reality

Checkout the Red Carpet Photos of the Cast Courtesy of Carl Agard

At its core, "Vanished" shines a light on a painful truth: Black women and girls are disproportionately affected by disappearances, trafficking, and exploitation, yet their cases often receive far less media coverage and urgency.

The performances are raw and compelling. Shaquita Smith delivers emotional depth that anchors the story, O’Shea Russell brings intensity and complexity, and Erica Pinkett adds strength and vulnerability that resonates long after the credits roll. Together, the cast paints a haunting picture of loss, resilience, and the fight to be seen.

What makes "Vanished" so impactful is its relevance. This is not just a fictional narrative — it mirrors what many families across the country are living every day.

Many celebs came out to support the movies premiere including "All The Queens Men" Chrystale Wilson and Keith Swift, "House of Payne's" Demetria Mckinney, actors Clifton Powell, Lisa Wu, Mimi Faust, Karli Redd, Jeff Logan and Kevin Savage.

Why This Film Matters

In communities nationwide, Black women continue to go missing at alarming rates. Many cases are connected to sex trafficking, while others intersect with illegal networks involving exploitation and, in extreme situations, organ harvesting. These crimes thrive in silence, stigma, and lack of awareness.

"Vanished" challenges that silence.

It reminds us that these women are daughters, mothers, sisters, creatives, professionals, and dreamers. Their lives matter. Their stories matter. And their disappearance should never be treated as normal.

This film calls on all of us — media, law enforcement, neighbors, friends, and families — to take collective responsibility. Kudos to the Writer, Audra Nicole, Executive Producers Tressa Azarel, Audra Nicole, and Don Lee, Producers Regina Okirike, Donna Christopher, and Lynette Blackwell, and Director Okirike I. Okirike for bringing this story to life.

How You Can Help Protect Our Communities

Awareness must lead to action. Here are meaningful ways individuals can help combat trafficking and exploitation:

1. Learn the signs of trafficking Be alert to red flags such as:

• Someone being controlled by another person

• Lack of personal identification

• Sudden changes in behavior or appearance

• Signs of physical abuse or fearfulness

• Being unable to speak freely or for themselves

2. Report suspicious activity If you suspect trafficking:

• Call the National Human Trafficking Hotline (U.S.): 1-888-373-7888

• Text HELP to 233733 Reports can be made anonymously.

3. Support survivor-led organizations Donate, volunteer, or amplify nonprofits that provide housing, counseling, legal support, and job training for survivors.

4. Talk to your children and community Open conversations save lives. Teach young people about online safety, grooming tactics, and trusting their instincts.

5. Use your platform Whether you have one follower or one million, sharing information keeps these issues visible.

A Call to Stand Together

"Vanished" is more than a movie — it’s a movement starter.

As a Boss XL Magazine exclusive, we recognize this film as an important contribution to social-impact storytelling. It urges us to look beyond entertainment and into accountability. In a world where Black women too often become invisible, "Vanished" reminds us that visibility is power.

Now streaming on Tubi, this is a must-watch film that demands reflection, dialogue, and action.

Checkout the "Vanished" Official Trailer

Let’s continue to ask questions. Let’s protect our communities. And most importantly, let’s stand up for our missing Black women — loudly, consistently, and together.

streaming now on Tubi