The action world is about to get a serious shake-up. SMOKE RELOADED, a new crime thriller, is officially in early pre-production—and it’s already turning heads. With John West Jr. and Robert Lawrence (brother of TV and film legend Martin Lawrence) leading the charge as Executive Producers, the film promises raw, unfiltered action from start to finish.
Directed by Segrin Phillips—who’s also behind the upcoming blockbuster EXOTIC, set to stream on platforms like Amazon Prime and Tubi—SMOKE RELOADED dives into the world of five crooked female cops who take the city by storm through a spree of violent robberies. Clocking in at 1 hour and 20 minutes, the movie promises high-stakes action that doesn’t let up.
John West Jr.: From the Football Field to the Big Screen
John West Jr.’s story is anything but typical. After his pro football career, he found his way into acting thanks to Robert Lawrence—and with Martin Lawrence’s blessing. His first acting gig? Playing a court bailiff on the hit show MARTIN. That role opened doors, leading to appearances on NEW YORK UNDERCOVER and several other major TV shows.
But West isn’t just an actor—he’s a hustler who knows how to get things done. In the early 2000s, long before social media changed the game, he independently produced and distributed his first film, BARBEQ, across the U.S. and overseas. The film also gave Omari Hardwick—better known as “Ghost” from POWER—his start.
Now, with SMOKE RELOADED, West is back in the spotlight as a writer, producer, and driving creative force. Co-written by West and Latrena Mitchell, the film promises a gritty, no-holds-barred take on crime and corruption.
Segrin Phillips: A Director with an Eye for Perfection
When it comes to the film’s visual style, director Segrin Phillips isn’t playing around. Based in Miami, Phillips is known for his raw, authentic approach to filmmaking. His talent isn’t something you can teach—it’s instinctive. And with a reputation for delivering high-quality work that rivals major studios like Sony and Universal, SMOKE RELOADED is in good hands.
Phillips and West share a long-standing creative partnership, and their chemistry is evident in every frame. With Phillips calling the shots, the film promises a slick, cinematic experience that blends style with substance.
Meet the Cast
The cast of SMOKE RELOADED is a mix of familiar faces and rising stars, each bringing their own flavor to the story. While a few roles are still up for grabs, here’s a look at who’s already on board:
- John West Jr. – Actor/Producer/Writer @westjohn_ent
- Segrin Phillips – Director/Producer/Editor @sogorillaempire
- Latrena Mitchell – Writer @latrena.mitchell
- Karla Monay Shaw – @karlamonayis
- Neecy J – @itsneecyj
- Candice “SiSi” Bennett – @sisi_the_great_2
- Daphne Austin – @modelbellabella
- Paris Taylor – @thimslick_mz.paris
- Marco Gonzales – @marcogonzalezforeal
- DJ Hershey – @iamcoredjhershey
- Quanita A. Smith – @unodarkandlovely71
- Deoineta Hightower – @project_nut929
- Charles Jackson – @atl_fathead
- Demarcus Jackson – @real__demarcus
- Dalisha Taylor – @melanin_perfection34
- Razsa – @actress_razsa
- Tiffani Michele – @iamtiffanimichele
- NIA – @stardancer66
- Ceddy J – @ceddyjdusk
Why You Should Be Paying Attention
What sets SMOKE RELOADED apart is its commitment to authenticity. The film doesn’t sugarcoat anything—it’s raw, fast-paced, and unapologetic. And with a cast that reflects real life, the story feels grounded while delivering all the high-octane action fans expect.
Plus, the creative team is no stranger to breaking barriers. West’s hustle mentality and Phillips’ vision make for a powerful duo. And with Robert Lawrence’s backing, the project has the kind of industry muscle that can push it to the next level.
Stay Tuned
As SMOKE RELOADED moves through production, more details will emerge—including additional casting announcements and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks. If you’re a fan of gritty crime dramas and action-packed storytelling, this is a project you won’t want to miss.
Follow the team on Instagram to stay updated and get a closer look at the making of SMOKE RELOADED:
- John West Jr. – @westjohn_ent
- Segrin Phillips – @sogorillaempire
- Latrena Mitchell – @latrena.mitchell
SMOKE RELOADED is coming—and it’s about to set a new standard for independent action films.
