senator cordell cleare – Street Line Video

Vera Edwards: A Trailblazer in Independent Film

Vera Edwards is an accomplished independent film director, producer, and author hailing from the Bronx. Known for her impactful urban films, she has made significant contributions to both the film industry and her local community. Her dedication to mentoring aspiring actors and filmmakers has earned her numerous accolades, including recent recognition from prominent figures in New York.

Edwards has established herself as a notable figure in independent cinema, particularly within the urban genre. Her films often reflect the realities of life in the Bronx, showcasing authentic narratives that resonate with audiences. Through her work, she not only entertains but also educates viewers about the complexities of urban life.

One of Edwards’ most commendable efforts is her commitment to mentoring young actors from her community. She actively involves them in her projects, providing opportunities for growth and exposure in the film industry. This hands-on approach not only helps nurture talent but also fosters a sense of community among aspiring artists.

On March 22, 2025, Vera Edwards received a Citation of Merit from Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. This honor was bestowed upon her for her outstanding contributions to film making and her dedication to mentoring local talent. Such recognition underscores the impact of her work on both the cultural landscape of the Bronx and its residents.

Additionally, Senator Cordell Cleare acknowledged Edwards’ contributions to community service with a citation that highlights her efforts beyond film making. These honors reflect not just her artistic achievements but also her commitment to uplifting those around her.

In March 2023, Vera Edwards was awarded the I AM WOMAN AWARD, celebrating women who have made significant strides in their fields while inspiring others. This accolade further cements her status as a role model for women in film and beyond.

As a proud resident of the Bronx, Vera Edwards continues to pave the way for future generations of filmmakers and actors through her work and mentorship. Her recognition by local leaders illustrates the profound impact she has had on both the arts and her community.

Vera Edwards is an influential independent film director whose work reflects urban realities while empowering local talent through mentorship and community engagement.

Director Vera Edwards honored with Citation

Vera Edwards (March 4, 1966) is an American director, screenwriter, producer, and actor. Born and raised in the South Bronx, New York City, Edwards began her career as an author and then graduated to write, direct, and produce television shows on a cable channel called Bronxnet. The show was titled “Street Line.” It was an entertainment show that not only showed what was happening in the streets, but showed celebrities as well as up-and-coming artists, dance, hip-hop, businesses, current events, and politics. The show revolutionized the urban community. In 2009, Edwards and her son Ricardo Cordero (director of photography) received several Beta Awards for their contributions to television.

In 2011 Edwards published her first book titled “BAND OF GOLD,” which was written by Vera Edwards herself. This was the start of her writing career which jumped started her in the direction of making movies.

One of the first female independent multimedia film director and producer in the Bronx, Edwards has captured the essence of urban life by utilizing members of the community by taking real-life experience and turning it into art. She has become a true pioneer in hip-hop culture and urban day living.

Edwards wrote, produced, and directed with her son Ricardo Cordero her first underground independent feature film, Chicken (2013); The film was an urban drama. The entire cast was first-time actors. The film received worldwide praise from parents, children, teens, and several educational institutions ranging from different fields of study that implemented different story elements into their own syllabuses. It was a scripted reality show at its finest. Chicken showcased unfortunate realism that many individuals face in urban communities even to this day. The movie Chicken sold-out not only at the theaters but also sold out as DVDs in stores. It became one of the most sought out underground urban movies till this day.

Her second film was a romantic love story titled “Waiting for 4 Mr. Wright” (2015), which won a Bronxnet Beta Award. It too had first-time actors, Anabel Castillo, and Hip-Hop artist, Mighty Mike C (Michael Clee), from the legendary hip-hop group, The Fearless 4. The film received a standing ovation which was played at the iconic Mist Theater in Harlem, New York; It also was a DVD hit.

This was followed in 2015 by Edwards’s first novella “Perate,” a movie drama that starred Artie Cordel and hip-hop legend Wilfredo “Tito” Dones, of the legendary group The Fearless 4. It was a challenge for Edwards to write and produce the life of a Hispanic dysfunctional family. Her daughter Bobbi Cordero(writer) helped create the movie, which won Edwards another Beta Award. The movie Perate also played in the iconic Mist Theater in Harlem, New York City.

In 2015-2018, Edwards directed her first web series that started out as a small pitch that led to a bigger series of its own name and a powerful relationship drama, “Rodent,” starring Seven and Antoinette “Toni Styles” Vereen. This was a drama that identified with personal relationships amongst friends and family. The web series had twists and turns. Rodent was in high demand on the internet but ended abruptly because of ‘unsettling’ events created only amongst actors based off their newfound popularity that was developed from the success of the Rodent series.

In 2016, Edwards produced and directed “PPRESSED,” based on the everyday life of battle rappers. The movie starred Karine “Sho-Time” Thornton and Michael Deering (Mikey D) from the legendary group, “Main Source.” Since its success and debut, it has become the anthem and blueprint of videography used in today’s hip-hop rap culture within television and feature digital movie format.

Edwards wrote, produced, and directed “A Teenage Story” (2020) starring LA Sunshine (Lamar Hill), from the legendary group The Treacherous 3, DJ and creator of scratch, Grandwizard Theodore (Theodore Livingston), Stevie D (Stevie Lundy), from the legendary Force Mds and first-time actor Justin Hines. The movie was shot during the COVID pandemic and was set for the theaters, but due to the worldwide COVID restriction lock-downs, the 1:49-minute movie was released on YouTube and generated over 800,000 views.

When asked in a recent interview on the podcast “SHO-TIME TV PODCAST,” the interviewer asked Edwards “How were you able to create so many hit movies in such a short time,” Edwards replied” I couldn’t have done it without my son Ricardo Cordero. He is an excellent cameraman. He and I work great together, I know him, and he knows me. He knows my vision. I leave all the camera work to him, and he makes it happen. I think he is the best director of photography I know. To be able to create and share time as a mother and son is priceless. I enjoy those moments”.

On March 26, 2023, Edwards was honored with a Citation by Senator Cordell Cleare for her work with the community as a Film director.