Illinois City, Illinois Dec 30, 2025 (Issuewire.com) - Founded by visionaries like Brian Yarbrough and Nate L. Morris, the company emphasizes purpose-driven entertainment, blending heart, courage, and transformation in every project. With a focus on accessible releases through streaming platforms, NorthEnd Empire Films aims to make high-quality, character-driven narratives available to everyone.
Their portfolio, though emerging, showcases a commitment to bold genres and relatable themes, from comedies exploring personal growth to family adventures highlighting resilience.
As of December 2025, the company continues to expand, drawing on local talent and community ties to produce films that entertain while leaving a lasting impact.
The Vision BehindNorthEnd Empire Films
At its core, NorthEnd Empire Films is built on the belief that storytelling should build worlds where characters feel authentic, stakes are palpable, and journeys inspire change. The company's missionis to create films that address hope, growth, and human connection.
This philosophy stems from the backgrounds of its key figures. Brian Yarbrough, the executive producer and owner, transitioned from a successful music career as a hip-hop rapper signed to Jermaine Dupri’s So SoDef Recordings, where he wrote songs and commercial jingles, to filmmaking.
His involvement in projects like "Space Jam 2" fueled his passion for visual storytelling. Nate L. Morris, the writer and director for their flagship films, brings a collaborative spirit, often drawing from real-life inspirations to infuse scripts with authenticity.
The company prioritizes partnerships with passionate creators, embracing diverse voices and genres. They commit to accessible distribution strategies, ensuring films reach audiences via on-demand and streaming services like Tubi, Netflix, Hulu, Peacock, Prime Video, and more.
This approach democratizes entertainment, allowing stories rooted in Midwestern locales to gain national visibility. NorthEnd Empire Films also gives back to the community, establishing the nonprofit New Beginnings to support displaced citizens, reflecting their values of purpose and social impact.
By shooting locally in areas like Danville, Champaign, and Bloomington, they showcase regional talent and boost tourism, hoping to attract more filmmakers to Illinois.
Spotlight on Irresponsibull (2023)
One of NorthEnd Empire Films' breakout projects is "Irresponsibull," a refreshing comedy released in 2023 that explores themes of maturity and family readiness. The film follows Allen, a man eager to settle down and start a family, but his girlfriend Theresa doubts his responsibility.
When an unexpected chance arises for Allen to babysit Theresa's nephew and niece, Brian and Britt, who turn out to be far from ordinary kids, he seizes it to prove himself.Chaos ensues in this 80-minute romp, blending humor with heartfelt moments of self-discovery.
Directed and written by Nate L. Morris, "Irresponsibull" features a talented cast including Chris Hightower, Deandre Burns, Na'Vaiya Lewis, Levi Conerly, Keith Campen, and Brian Yarbrough in supporting roles. Shot in the United States with English dialogue, the movie has garnered positive reception, earning a 7.3/10 rating on IMDb from 9 users.
Available on Tubi, where it leads in its category, the film exemplifies the company's goal of entertaining while delving into universal struggles like personal growth. Its premiere at the historic Virginia Theatre in Champaign was a sold-out red-carpet event, highlighting the local enthusiasm for NorthEnd Empire's work. Critics and viewers appreciate the film's light-hearted take on adulthood, making it a perfect entry point into the company's portfolio.
The LAF Kids (2024)
Building on the success of "Irresponsibull," NorthEnd Empire Films released "The LAF Kids" (short for Lost & Found Kids) in 2024, with wider streaming availability by October 2025. This family-friendly comedy centers on four young orphans yearning for a loving home. Their lives turn upside down when mob goons target their orphanage for sale and kidnap the Head Lady, sparking a chain of life-changing events. The kids must confront these challenges head-on, embarking on an adventure filled with fun antics, comedy, and heroism to save the day.
Also written and directed by Nate L. Morris, with Brian Yarbrough as executive producer, the film boasts a predominantly local cast from Danville and Champaign schools. Stars include Chuck Gibson, Brian Yarbrough, Marissa Curry, Nate Morris, Holden Hightower, Na’vaiya Lewis, Adila Tylor, Naijier Morris, Williams Dixon, Reesha Morris, and Amanda Allhands. Filmed entirely in Illinois locations such as a repurposed building off Alexander Street in Danville (serving as the orphanage), an East Main Street commercial space, a warehouse near Garfield Park, Neil St. Blues and West Side Park in Champaign, and the Vrooman Mansion in Bloomington, the production highlights regional charm.
The red-carpet premiere occurred on November 30, 2024, at the historic Fischer Theatre in Danville, with tickets starting at $25. Now streaming on platforms like Prime Video, Apple, Google, YouTube TV, Hulu, Amazon, Tubi, Xumo, Vudu, Redbox, Comcast, Cox, Verizon, Dish, and Sling TV, "The LAF Kids" continues to gain traction. Trailers and previews on YouTube showcase the film's vibrant energy, emphasizing themes of hope and courage that align with the company's ethos.
Core Values and Community Impact
NorthEnd Empire Films stands out for its commitment to heart-centered narratives that promote transformation. Whether depicting kids finding hope amid adversity or adults navigating responsibility, their stories reflect universal emotions. The company embraces bold genres, from kid-friendly adventures to grown-up comedies, while partnering with creators who prioritize story above all. Their local focus not only supports Illinois talent but also drives community initiatives, like the New Beginnings nonprofit, which aids displaced individuals through shelter and support.
By producing films that entertain and inspire, NorthEnd Empire fosters a sense of belonging and possibility. Their success on streaming platforms demonstrates that independent cinema can thrive without big-studio backing, encouraging aspiring filmmakers in the Midwest.
Upcoming Projects
Looking ahead, NorthEnd Empire Films is actively developing new projects to expand their storytelling horizons. With a pipeline that includes exploring new voices, perspectives, and genres, the company promises more innovative content. Recent social media teases hint at upcoming castings and productions, building on the momentum from "Irresponsibull" and "The LAF Kids." As Yarbrough notes, it's about watching a bigger picture unfold, with history being made one film at a time.
Media Contact
NorthEnd Empire Films info@northendempire.com 217-417-4800 2001 N. Mattis Ave. #8922 Champaign, Illinois 61826 https://northendempire.com/
