Wanda Sykes Makes Dramatic Debut in Boxing Drama “Undercard”

Undercard is a Mother-Son boxing story led by Wanda Sykes.

Seismic Releasing has acquired U.S. rights to “Undercard,” a mother-son boxing drama led by Wanda Sykes. The film will release exclusively in theaters on Feb. 27. Notably, the project marks Sykes’ first dramatic film role. She also serves as an executive producer.

Director Tamika Miller helmed the feature and co-wrote the script with Anita M. Cal. The film leans into character, family tension, and hard-earned redemption.

A mother and son story built around the fight game

“Undercard” centers on Cheryl “No Mercy” Stewart, a two-time former boxing champion. Cheryl is also a recovering alcoholic who carries a painful past. Years earlier, Cheryl abandoned her son, Keith Stewart. Now 21, Keith has natural talent as a fighter. However, he lacks discipline and focus.

When Cheryl reaches out, Keith meets her with deep resentment. Even so, their paths collide at a moment when Keith needs direction. After a devastating loss, Keith’s career spirals. His gambling addicted trainer leaves him unprepared, and the defeat hits his confidence. As a result, Keith loses momentum and belief.

Cheryl sees an opening. She can try to save Keith’s career. Likewise, she can try to reclaim the family she lost. The two enter an uneasy partnership. Consequently, ambition and forgiveness share the same space. The story asks what a second chance costs, and who pays for it.

The full cast

Alongside Sykes, “Undercard” stars Bentley Green as Keith. The cast also includes Xavier Mills, William Stanford Davis, Roselyn Sánchez, Berto Colón, and Estella Kahiha.

Casting director Kim Coleman, CSA, assembled the ensemble. The lineup blends familiar TV faces with rising talent.

Tamika Miller calls the film a decade long labor of love

Miller framed the project as personal and hard-fought. “Undercard has been a labor of love for over a decade, and seeing Wanda Sykes in her first dramatic role has been extraordinary,” she said in a statement.

Miller also praised Green’s performance as Keith. “Bentley Green delivers a remarkable, heartfelt performance as her son, bringing real depth to their story,” she said.

She described the film’s themes in straightforward terms. “This film is about resilience, courage, and the battles we fight both in and out of the ring,” Miller said.

Wanda Sykes says audiences will feel the work behind it

Sykes emphasized how long the road has been. “Finally! This project has been in the works for years,” she said in a statement. She also pointed to the team effort behind the scenes. “I’m excited for the audience to see on the big screen, the love that was poured into the making of this film, from top to bottom,” Sykes said.

What this role means for Sykes

Sykes has spent decades as a standout comedian, writer, and performer. Her screen work includes “The Upshaws,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” “Monster in Law,” and “History of the World: Part II.”

Her comedy specials also have drawn major awards attention. “I’m an Entertainer” landed nominations across several major groups. Even so, “Undercard” asks her to play against type. The role leans on pain, patience, and earned trust. It also puts her in the role of mentor, not just mother.

“Undercard” opens exclusively in theaters on February 27.

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