Actress Robyn Rose

Detroit filmmakers Rockey Black and Tonja Ayers are celebrating the success of their latest suspense thriller, “The One Next Door,” which debuted on Tubi last week and has climbed to No. 1 on the platform's Most Popular list.

The movie was filmed primarily in Apex, along with several locations throughout the Raleigh-Durham area.

The production brought together talent from both Michigan and North Carolina. Local resident Forrest Chilton was assistant director, while dozens of North Carolina crew members, actors and extras were cast to help bring authenticity to the film's neighborhood setting.

Detroit actors Robyn Rose, Dez Cortez, Don Snipes, Kamal Smith, Kennedie Olivia, and Shelby Leigh traveled to Apex to headline the production alongside the North Carolina cast, creating a collaboration between two thriving independent film communities.

SYNOPSIS

Johnathan and Tabitha's marriage appears to have it all: the beautiful home, luxury cars and the perfect family. But everything changes when a mysterious, handsome stranger moves in next door. As boundaries are crossed, loyalty is questioned, and danger closes in. Their seemingly perfect life begins to unravel as their family is overtaken by the one next door.

The film stars Dez Cortez Crenshaw, Robyn Rose, Don Snipes, Kamal Smith, Kennedie Olivia Reeves, Shelby Leigh, Lisa Schuster, Sheryl Riddick and Tyler Burt delivering performances that have quickly resonated with audiences.

For Ayers and Black, the project represents more than another successful release. It highlights the value of collaborating across state lines while showcasing the Triangle region as an attractive destination for independent filmmaking. By combining Detroit's established independent film talent with North Carolina's skilled crews and local performers, the production created a film that reflects the strengths of both filmmaking communities.

"We're incredibly grateful to everyone in Apex and throughout the Raleigh-Durham area who welcomed our production," Black said. "The support from the local community, businesses, crew members, and background talent helped make this film possible. To see ‘The One Next Door’ connect with audiences so quickly and reach the top of Tubi is an amazing feeling."

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