2026 American Black Film Festival Announces Showcase Film Sections Lineup With Projects Featuring Jill Scott, Glynn Turman, and Renée Elise Goldsberry

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THE 2026 AMERICAN BLACK FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES SHOWCASE FILM SECTIONS LINEUP INCLUDING VOICES OF CULTURE, AFRICAN STORIES, AND AI x XR STORYTELLING SHOWCASE

 

Voices Of Culture to Feature Projects Starring Jill Scott, Glynn Turman, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Tabitha Brown, and Russell Hornsby

 

LOS ANGELES, CA (May 1, 2026) – The 2026 American Black Film Festival (ABFF) announced today the Non-Competitive Showcase Film Sections lineup including Voices Of Culture, African Stories, and AI x XR Storytelling Showcase. The 30th anniversary of ABFF will take place in Miami Beach May 27-31 under the theme “Homecoming.”

Voices Of Culture is a showcase of short films directed by persons of African descent. Curated by invitation only, this section highlights outstanding works that reflect the breadth of the global Black experience. The showcase features forty films from a variety of countries, including Rwanda, Belgium, Nevis, and Colombia, and features over fifteen World Premieres. Short films feature a variety of notable talent including Renée Elise Goldsberry, Tabitha Brown, Jabari Banks, and Russell Hornsby.

African Stories, a special non-competitive showcase spotlighting short films from Africa’s most dynamic emerging voices, celebrates the continent’s rich cultural perspectives and storytelling traditions, offering audiences a powerful window into the creativity shaping Africa’s diverse and rapidly evolving film communities. All five of the films included in the African Stories showcase are World or US premieres, with films represented across Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya.

 

AI x XR Storytelling Showcase is a series of innovative works created through artificial intelligence and immersive technologies, curated in partnership with GRX Immersive Labs, which explore the future of storytelling by featuring bold new voices at the intersection of creativity and technology. The five films included in the AI x XR Storytelling Showcase are World or US Premieres and feature a variety of genres including Sci-Fi/Afrofuturism to Horror/Supernatural.

“As we celebrate 30 years of ABFF, this year’s showcase programming reflects both the breadth of storytelling today and where it’s headed,” said NICE CROWD President Nicole Friday. “African Stories introduces distinct voices from across the continent, all premiering their work on our stage, while the AI x XR Storytelling Showcase explores how emerging technologies are reshaping the creative process. Voices of Culture brings together a wide range of perspectives from around the world. Together, these sections underscore ABFF’s continued commitment to championing new voices, expanding access to global audiences, and serving as a platform for discovery and what’s next in storytelling.”

VOICES OF CULTURE

A non-competitive showcase of short films directed by persons of African descent. Curated by invitation only, this section highlights outstanding works that reflect the breadth of the global Black experience.

The Day You Find Your Name

At the height of the Black Panther movement, a pregnant Afeni Shakur must defend herself against 189 felony charges in a trial that threatens her freedom and her unborn child’s future.

 

 

USA | 15m
Director: Dominique R. Draper
Writer: Dominique R. Draper
Producers:
Cast: Journey Carter, Mitchell Edwards
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1165898884/6e9e4b5d89?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci

Penny in the Sky *World Premiere

When a man contemplating his life decides to put his fate into a coin toss, he's interrupted by the sudden appearance of a woman there to end her life as well.
USA | 20m
Director: Drew Allyn & Alexis Wilson
Writer: Drew Allyn
Producers: Cee Wright
Cast: Benjamin Earl Turner, Ryn Stafford

If only you knew *World Premiere

A woman confronting her father about his absence.
USA | 20m
Director: Safiyah Chiniere
Writer: Safiyah Chiniere
Producers: Safiyah Chiniere, Rox Campbell
Cast: Ashley Hernandez, Adrian Luke Sinclair, Steve Attie

Crossroads

A wrongfully fired financier and a guarded lawyer connect unexpectedly on a blind date, turning a night of bad news into something more.
USA | 19m
Director: Horane Henry
Writer: Shari Brown
Producers: Victorious De Costa, Rasheen "Raye" Donaldson
Cast: Okema T. Moore, Rory Clarke, Saint Thompson, Horace Henry, Donnadeen Rowe-Henry
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1104489333/98d2c2a220?fl=tl&fe=ec

 

Bid

During a Thanksgiving dinner an eager grad student attempted to reconnect with family through a game of Spades, the only obstacle is her mother.
USA | 10m
Director: Matthew Price
Writer: Matthew Price
Producers: Chelsea Stardust, Alex Coulter, Matthew Price
Cast: Phylicia Wissa, Nikko Austen Smith, Tim Russ, Teri Gamble, Sheroid Evans, Jeffrey Reddick
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1126095802?fl=ip&fe=ec

 

Fairytales *World Premiere

On their wedding day, a young bride’s monstrous powers are exposed during a violent police encounter, forcing her and her husband to flee through a city that now sees her as a threat— finding brief refuge at her loving father’s secluded home, until the outside world catches up and turns sanctuary into battleground.
USA | 12m
Director: Tiffani Holland
Writer: Tiffani Holland
Producers: Christopher Gleaton, Tiffani Holland
Cast: Paulina Singer, Brian Reese, Steven Strickland
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/1183961483

 

Peace by Piece *World Premiere

When a so-called actor from the future travels back in time to study the ordinary man he will play in a movie, we all want to know... why him?
USA | 11m
Director: Jordan K. Paul
Writer: Jordan K. Paul
Producers: Bria O'Brien, Sam Van Dyke, and Jordan K. Paul
Cast: Jordan Paul, Dante Rossi
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/jordankpaul/pxptrailer?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci

 

Touching *World Premiere

A young girl must protect her baby sister when a sleepover with their cousin becomes a nightmare.
USA | 11m
Director: Lauryn Charliah Allums
Writer: Lauryn Charliah Allums
Producers: Jasmin Prophete, Jasiah Denise Washington, Aiyannah Tasker-Lewis
Cast: Rose De La Cruz, Alexandria Grice, Antoinette Allison, Nakia Borgella, David Perry

 

I Got My Brother

Two brothers reflect on their candid and often humorous memories of surviving the foster care system and prison, realizing along the way that their path to healing has always been each other.
USA | 17m
Director: Victor Gabriel
Producers: Rachel Earnest
Cast: Jarrett Harper, Baylon Harper

 

500 Seconds To Tell You

Before a catastrophe ends life on Earth, a young man struggles to put his feelings for his best friend into words.
USA | 11m
Director: Gerard Clarke
Writer: Gerard & Rashielle Clarke
Producers: Gerard Clarke, Rashielle Clarke, Saham Hosseini, Asha Alaji-Sharif
Cast: Jared Jackson, Asha Alaji-Sharif

 

Iku Aka (Knocking on the Door)

On the eve of her Iku Aka, Chinelo’s joyful Igbo marriage celebration is upended by a long-hidden family secret, forcing her to choose whether tradition will guide her or her jailer.
USA | 12m
Director: Tiffany Lotanna Onyejekwe
Writer: Tiffany Lotanna Onyejekwe
Executive Producers: Epiphany Ciers, Onyii Ogomaka, Tiffany Onyejekwe | Producer: Asari Aibangebee
Cast: Jessica Otse, Dorothy Chinenyenwa, Francis C. Edemobi, Prince Ezerumaka, Ella Nwokedi

 

Woman Land

Two young Somali sisters in Minneapolis have to balance rebellion with their reputations when their secret matchmaking business attracts a client a little too close to home.
USA | 10m
Director: Yasmin Yassin
Writer: Yasmin Yassin, M.A. Lepage
Producers: Yasmin Yassin, Filsan Said, Nolan Morice
Cast: Hodan Hassan, Nadira Hussein, Beera Luula, Abdurahman Muhumed

 

Buttercup Pudding Pie *World Premiere

Looky here: A daddy runs outta gas on the way to his baby girl’s birthday, then everything goes sideways.
USA | 15m
Director: Keith Powell
Writer: Keith Powell
Producers: Keith Powell, Venkatesh Potula
Cast: Burl Moseley, John Earl Jelks, Milton TJ Taylor, Talya Klein
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1114719451?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci

 

Please Return Your Cart *World Premiere

A former soldier turned shopping cart attendant, resigned to a life on the sidelines, is challenged by a vibrant consultant to embrace his greatest fear - a second chance at love.
USA | 14m
Director: Kendra Jo
Writer: Kendra Jo
Producers: Andrew St Juste, Color Creative
Cast: Russell Hornsby, Kimrie Lewis, Jabari Banks, Ratoya Banks, Tabitha Brown
Trailer: https://youtu.be/uJ1NEAvBKn8

 

Mini Me *World Premiere

In the pursuit of an open cast call at the height of hurricane season, a Jamaican-American family learns to voice their pent-up grief.
USA | 18m
Director: a. b. oddman
Writer: a. b. oddman
Producers: Redd Coltrane, Kaylee Hayes, Thyais Walsh
Cast: Symone Holmes, Kyrie McAlpin, Thyais Walsh, Taylor Crawford
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1179777669?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci

 

Cutoff

Chester connects with his nephew Quincy on the day of his baptism. Their relationship ruffles feathers, and Chester reconsiders his next steps in the boy’s life.
USA | 9m
Director: Jalen Rayno
Writer: Jalen Rayno
Producers: Ethan Elkins
Cast: C.P Walker, Eli Romelus, Kamajhia Williams

 

Keep My Brother

"Keep My Brother" tells the poignant story of Ava, who struggles to balance her family, career, and health while caring for her younger brother, Darryl, during his severe manic episode.
USA | 11m
Director: Sharona D'Ornellas
Writer: Sharona D'Ornellas
Producers: Renée Elise Goldsberry, Sharona D'Ornellas, Cat Del Re, Jessy Greer
Cast: Renée Elise Goldsberry, Darryl Dunning II, Daniel J Watts
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1107191130?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci

 

Age Of Quorum

A young man's New Year's Eve takes a dramatic turn as the night transforms into an adversary he must conquer to survive.
UK | 14m
Director: Yomi Ayeni
Writer: Yomi Ayeni
Producers: Laurelle Jones
Cast: Ade Femzo, Rhys Quilley, Justice Ezi, Mack Muggleton
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1120647727?fl=pl&fe=sh

 

Vengeance Is All I Have *World Premiere

An enraged young man infiltrates a picturesque suburban home with revenge on his mind, but his determination begins to falter when he discovers a connection with his younger half-brother.
USA | 17m
Director: Christian Osagiede
Writer: Christian Osagiede
Producers: Kaylin Stanford
Cast: Patrick Walker, Jimmy Jean-Louis, Trent Allen Davis, Elizabeth Dantus

 

Echoes Beneath The Hill

On the verge of the genocide against the minority Tutsi. Jeanne, 10, a daredevil girl, is searching for her pet goat.

Rwanda;Belgium | 17m
Director: Aime Octave
Writer: Aime Octave & Manon Poelman
Producers: Nora Essalama, Lead Producer | Aime Octave Ishimwe, Ass. Producer
Cast: Uwihirwe Francine, Cyiza Bolce, Gakwaya Celestin, Uwimana Clementine

 

Oh Happy Day!

Over the course of Easter week, a young boy struggles to impress his crush.
USA | 12m
Director: Ivan Rome
Writer: Ivan Rome
Producers: Leah Simone Scott, Brianna Jones Appiah
Cast: Kaden Taylor, Blossom Cole, Chantal Maurice, Ann Nesby, Alfred Lamar, Syer Blu Wilson
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1179935848?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci

 

Ella

Ella sings her love songs--scatting through her darkest notes.
USA | 18m
Director: Nikki Taylor-Roberts
Writer: Nikki Taylor-Roberts, Anthea Piscarik
Producers: Meleisha J. Edwards, JT Thames, Sophia Watson
Cast: Jill Scott, Destinee Rae

 

The Checklist *World Premiere

When a mother rediscovers a forgotten checklist from her past, she’s inspired to reclaim her adventurous spirit—pulling her skeptical daughter into a journey of self-discovery, nostalgia, and unexpected reconnection.
USA | 13m
Director: Jasmine T.Q. McLaurin
Writer: Kay Rich
Producers: Emma Jackson, Kay Rich, Tarra Denise Jackson, Linda Richardson-Gardner, Angie Blackwell
Cast: Karole Foreman, Tarra Denise Jackson, Shaun Bedgood, Emma J
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1116492717?fl=pl&fe=sh

 

Couples Skate *World Premiere

A night at the roller rink reveals the cracks in a relationship.
USA | 11m
Director: Kaliya Warren
Writer: Kaliya Warren
Producers: Magen Ashley Young, Roan Bibby, Hughes William Thompson, Kaliya Warren
Cast: Jordan Coleman, Myko Olivier
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1032497650/1e8961e0cb

 

AFUFU

When a live-in housekeeper accidentally breaks a valuable item, her decision to hide her transgression from her employers has devastating consequences.
USA | 18m
Director: Ellie Foumbi
Writer: Ellie Foumbi
Producers: Leo Blumberg-Woll; Jesy Odio
Cast: Babetida Sadjo; Saffron Burrows; Tate Donovan; Vivian Olyphant

 

This Is Private

A stripper cunningly decides to use her private dances as therapy sessions in order to prevail in her collegiate psychology class.
USA | 14m
Director: LeAndre Thomas
Writer: LeAndre Thomas
Producers: Caitlyn Durkin
Cast: Birgundi Baker, Joseph Rye, Wendy Feign, Matthew Baetz, Skip Howland, S.B. Grey, William Romano-Pugh

 

JOHN *World Premiere

Facing discrimination, a black female lawyer disguises herself as a white man to navigate with more privilege.
USA | 17m
Director: Amirah Adem
Writer: Amirah Adem
Producers: Yennefer Fang, Nellie Luna, Tosin Omolola
Cast: Samantha Marie Ware, David Shatraw, Spencer Neville, Lisagaye Tomlinson
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1101400085/83946ba905?fl=pl&fe=vl

 

Intergalactic Ingenue

On the night he’s supposed to integrate with his Hive-mind alien girlfriend, James, a man with deep commitment issues, discovers his ex is also dating the same Hivemind.
USA | 20m
Director: Nathan Deshawn Bouie
Writer: Nathan Deshawn Bouie
Producers: Ami Coulibaly, Quinn Murphy, Jayla Hodge
Cast: Jai’Reeh Demond, Akira Jackson, Mckayla Fontanez

Trailer: https://youtu.be/aedq36s0IlY

 

The Last Wish

When an unsettling visitor disrupts her fragile new life, a 70-year-old widow is compelled to face her greatest fear, water, forcing her into a battle with both her past and her own mortality.
Canada | 15m
Director: Kimberley Ann Surin
Writer: Kimberley Ann Surin
Producers: Kimberley Ann Surin, Véronique Charbonneau
Cast: Marie-Aimée Cadet, Naïla Louidort, Nayla Mongeon-Levesque
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1110767661

 

HOMEbirth *World Premiere

As her due date nears, a first-time mother meticulously plans the perfect home birth, only to confront a haunting truth many Black women know too well- that doing everything right still may not be enough to survive.
USA | 17m
Directors: Carra Patterson, Korey Jackson
Writer: Carra Patterson
Producers: Carra Patterson, Korey Jackson
Cast: Carra Patterson, Ruffin Prentiss III, Ngozi Anyanwu

 

TIGUERONAS

After ending an abusive relationship with her narcissistic boyfriend, Aaliyah and her friends hatch a bold plan for revenge on a girls’ night out, igniting a journey of self-empowerment and sisterhood.
USA | 14m
Director: Imani Celeste
Writer: Imani Celeste
Producers: Imani Celeste, Flor de Oro Tejada
Cast: Daniella Denisse Macre Rodríguez, Imani Brammer, Mariyea, Victoria Lino, Malik Tyree Sneed

 

EL TIGUERE

In the Bronx, an Afro-Dominican father nurtures an underground mobile food garden while searches for a way to rebuild his relationship with his estranged son.
USA | 20m
Director: Andrew J. Rodriguez
Writer: Andrew J. Rodriguez
Producers: Yuki Maekawa-Ledbetter
Cast: Elvis Nolasco as Joaquin & Ansi Rodrigues as Junior
Trailer: youtube.com/watch?v=hWQ4ZEYIBuI&pp=ygUSZWwgdGlndWVyZSB0cmFpbGVy0gcJCdMKAYcqIYzv

 

Killer Of Men *World Premiere

Set in the antebellum American South, an enslaved prize fighter faces a choice between life and freedom after attending the burial of the man he was forced to kill.
USA | 13m
Director: Jordan Betine
Writer: Jordan Betine; Kiera Bratton-Lewis
Producers: Jordan Betine; Ruoxiao Li
Cast: Erik Orjiako, Sandra McDaniels
Trailer: https://youtu.be/v5iWPSAVtjA

 

  1. P. V. *World Premiere

Plagued by the physical and emotional tolls of endometriosis and HPV, Kaleigh’s relentless quest for empathy drives her to desperate measures.
USA | 17m
Director: Kiah Clingman
Writer: Kiah Clingman, CJ Sykes
Producers: Kiah Clingman, Alex Woodruff, Abijeet Achar, Pink Maxwell, Breanna O'Conner, Sue-Ellen Chitunya, Taylor Polidore Williams, Marcella Arthur, Rennard West, CJ Sykes, Annie Jacob, Amer-Marie Woods
Cast: Taylor Polidore Williams, Vince Swann, Stephen Ruffin, Allen Burns, Jessica Fontaine

 

Beach Day

In a world where one woman’s death means the end of everything, a man sets out on a surreal journey to ask her permission to die before she does.
USA | 11m
Director: Brandon XIV
Writer: Brandon XIV
Producers: Brandon XIV, Shane Snow, Sylvia Brindis, Jess Black
Cast: Richard David, Aja Monet, Sekou Andrews, and LaChanze
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1118985169

 

Pan Gyul

On the island of Nevis, a determined young girl challenges tradition and her mother’s opposition to learn the steel pan, hoping to connect with her celebrated musician father and claim her own voice.
Nevis, West Indies | 15m
Director: Juliette Jeffers
Writer: Juliette Jeffers
Producers: Juliette Jeffers, Damaris DiVito, Dawn Bridgewater, Carole Copeland and Thomas Austin Sinclair Bridgewater
Cast: Juliette Jeffers, Winston Crooke and Hadassah Daniels
Trailer: https://youtu.be/HQLVSiOFwiY?si=MJmRLhr0OSnoy_KI

 

Yellow Pages *World Premiere

When a little girl, dreaming of becoming a comedian, begins using the Yellow Pages to test out her jokes, she unknowingly brightens the life of someone who needs it most.
USA | 15m
Director: Simone Thomas-Rowe
Writer: Simone Thomas-Rowe
Producers: Devin Saddler, Simone Thomas-Rowe, Elodie Ghonda
Cast: Cadence Reese, Damien Leake, Danielle Banks, Mingjie Zhai, Sandra Walters

 

BERTHA *World Premiere

A woman must be more stubborn than a goat to find her freedom.
Colombia | 13m
Director: Laura Asprilla Carrillo
Writer: Laura Asprilla Carrillo
Producers: Laura Asprilla Carrillo
Cast: Barbara Perea
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1151390510

 

When They’re Gone *World Premiere

After an abrupt encounter at a graveyard, two elderly men form an unexpected bond over the grief and love of their late wives.
USA | 14m
Directors: Ragan Henderson, Lauryn Darden
Writer: Lauryn Darden
Producers: Gabriyèl Barlatier, Elizabeth Kurtz; Executive Producers: Glynn Turman, Marni Rosenzweig, Brian Kurtz, Janice Barlatier-Tawfiq, Leon Henderson Jr., Ana Verde, Taylor Wildenhaus, Brenda Robinson, Jenifer Westphal, Loy A. Webb, and Delta Dirt Distillery
Cast: Glynn Turman, Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs
Trailer: https://youtu.be/lBRea1iWmjU

 

Fragments of Joy *World Premiere

Taking his Alzheimer addled mother on a weekend jaunt to NYC in hopes of jogging her memory, an alcoholic son has to walk a fine line between frustration and responsibility.
USA | 15m
Director: Andre Royo
Writer: Andre Royo
Producers: Darren Dean, Ante Novakovic, Sabine Ocaña, Isabella Cooper
Cast: Andre Royo, Maria Broom

 

AFRICAN STORIES

A non-competitive showcase of short films from Africa’s most dynamic new voices. Curated to highlight the continent’s rich cultural perspectives and storytelling traditions, the program offers a unique window into the creativity driving Africa’s diverse and growing film communities.

 

  1. ROGERS *US Premiere

From the tale of "Old Roger is dead and gone to his grave" stems a young family who goes to spend a holiday weekend with relatives, and ignorantly awakens an unforgiven but insidious entity that rains terror, bringing their bloodline to the brink of hell.
Nigeria | 19m
Director: Daniel Ehimen
Writer: Daniel Ehimen & Aaliyah Salia
Producers: Daniel Ehimen, Oladayo Oladejo, Omoyeni Sholabomi Disu
Cast: Yusrah Ayinde, Joseph Imoikor, Demi Banwo, Princess Obuseh, Ayo Binta Mogaji, Kunle Coker, Francis Oyinlola Bakare
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1102923797

 

Bam Bam *US Premiere

When a gifted but withdrawn teenager falls for a classmate, his AI best friend pushes him toward love, forcing him to confront the self-doubt that has shaped his life.
Nigeria | 17m
Director: Tolulope Itegboje
Writer: Tolulope Itegboje
Producers: Oge Obasi, Tolulope Itegboje
Cast: Kelechi Udegbe, Ambrose Nwoga
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1113905841?fl=ip&fe=ec

 

The Break-In *World Premiere

A routine break-in spirals when tensions inside a crew of small-time thieves force one member to question the future he's been chasing.
South Africa | 14m
Director: Sizwe Kubeka
Writer: Sizwe Kubeka
Producers: Masibulele Mtonjeni
Cast: Malusi Ngxubungela, Patrick Sithole, Akhile Mjanyelwa

 

Our Brother *US Premiere

A grieving family faces loss and imminent departures while tensions rise as the matriarch cares for her eldest autistic son. The intricate threads binding them are tested.
Kenya | 15m
Director: Shandra Apondi
Writer: Shandra Apondi, Kofi Ntiforo, Norris Kabembe
Producers: Celine Onditi, Shandra Apondi
Cast: Beatrice Kamuyu, Brian Furaha, Ivy Collette Nafula, Agwingi Adingo
Trailer: https://youtu.be/sYJuUOTvNnA?si=xNL0HbNP1n-xMWb5

 

Amon *World Premiere

As a boy responds to letters for his illiterate grandmother, he is confronted with one of news of her failing health -- he must make the decision to disclose the truth or keep the letter's contents to himself.
United States | 6m
Director: Chloé-Eloïse Mallet
Writer: Chloé-Eloïse Mallet
Producers: Jiayang Liu, Chloé-Eloïse Mallet
Cast: Lamine Goita, Maimounay Lemailloux

 

AI x XR STORYTELLING SHOWCASE

A non-competitive showcase of innovative works created through artificial intelligence and immersive technologies. Curated in partnership with GRX Immersive Labs, the program explores the future of storytelling by featuring bold new voices at the intersection of creativity and technology.

 

The Haunting of RiverFalls *World Premiere

When a matriarch witch of a powerful Black lineage teaches her daughter to cross into the spirit world, a forbidden ritual goes wrong—and a demonic entity follows the girl back, threatening to destroy their bloodline forever.
United States | 7m
Director: Aaron Avont Johnson
Writer: Aaron Avont Johnson
Producers: Aaron Johnson, Takela Johnson, Dasha Johnson
Cast: Aaron Johnson

 

FAME FARM *World Premiere

The future ain’t what it used to be.
United States | 9m
Director: Whoingodsname
Writer: Whoingodsname
Producers: Kharmony Fortune
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1103270500

 

Cowbone *World Premiere

When a Jamaican excavator operator is left in the Jamaican jungle alone, he knocks down the wrong tree and discovers that some roots are better left buried.
United States | 2m
Director: Alexander Newman Hall
Writer: Alexander Newman Hall
Producers: Alexander Newman Hall

 

The B Side: The Future is Past *US Premiere

When visitors from the sky descend on a terror-haunted Jim Crow community, one young Black girl understands what the adults cannot - salvation has arrived, and it chose her.
United States | 6m
Director: Kimberly Offord
Writer: Kimberly Offord
Producers: Kimberly Offord
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1184935594/4b8154999e?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci

 

Eat The Rich *World Premiere

After the middle class is quietly “optimized” out of existence, a starving Dracula pivots to a new menu—wealthy professionals who are about to learn that money doesn’t buy immunity, just a later appointment.
United States | 6m
Director: Tiffani Lee Joseph
Writer: Tiffani Lee Joseph
Producers: Tiffani Lee Joseph
Trailer: https://youtu.be/IPq4BjCxNRU?si=_pYRuGr_heb8Mt2t

 

 

ABFF sponsors and partners to date are Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO® (Founding), Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) (Host), Ally Financial, Amazon MGM Studios, Comcast NBCUniversal, Walmart (Presenting), City of Miami Beach, American Airlines (Major), Netflix, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (Official), CBS, with the support of the Miami Beach Visitor And Convention Authority, Hartbeat, AARP, L'Oréal Groupe, STARZ, ESPN (Supporting), Motion Picture Association, Uber (Contributing), Nielsen, Fulton Films GA, The Black Leadership AIDS Crisis Coalition (BLACC) powered by AHF, William Morris Endeavor (Associate), Variety, LA Times, Getty Images (Media).

Additional details and programming announcements will be released in the coming weeks. For updates, visit www.nicecrowd.com and follow @ABFF on Twitter and @AmericanBlackFilmFestival on Instagram and Facebook.

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About the American Black Film Festival (ABFF)

Founded in 1997 by Jeff Friday, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is a premier destination for film and television storytelling. Widely regarded as a key pipeline for emerging talent, ABFF has played a pivotal role in launching the careers of many of today’s most acclaimed filmmakers, actors, and creative voices. Each year, the festival brings together artists, industry leaders, and audiences from around the world for a five-day program of screenings, panels, masterclasses, and networking opportunities. The festival’s 30th anniversary edition will take place May 27–31, 2026, in Miami Beach.

 

About NICE CROWD

NICE CROWD is a pioneering live events company operating at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and tourism. Founded by Nicole and Jeff Friday, the company produces high-impact festivals, awards shows, and destination experiences in major U.S. cities and global markets. Guided by its philosophy, The Power of Gathering, NICE CROWD believes that when people come together, creativity flourishes, new voices are amplified, and meaningful connections are made. The company harnesses that energy to deliver culturally relevant experiences while generating measurable economic impact for its partners. Through expertise in event production, audience engagement, and strategic partnerships, NICE CROWD creates platforms that celebrate groundbreaking artists and innovators while connecting brands, media, and audiences in meaningful ways. www.nicecrowd.com

More information about the American Black Film Festival (ABFF): https://www.abff.com/miami/

RETURN OF THE MACK: BACK FOR DA SMOKE When you run the streets and then the streets run you: Review

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Director: Kamal Smith
Writers: Jason “Jayskillz” Collins, Brian Freeman, and Jami Freeman
Starring Dejuan Ford, Clifton Powell, De’aundre Bonds, Mike Bonner, Cody Fox, And Ebony Tates
Run time: 1 hour 42 minutes
Genre: Gritty Crime, Drama
Rating: R
Country: United States
Language: English

When you have run the streets and then the streets run you

Director’s Kamal Smith’s new film  RETURN OF THE MACK: BACK FOR DA SMOKE tells the story of
John "Golden" Mickens III (DeJuan Ford), grandson of the original Mack from Oakland(Max Julien) who chooses the same lifestyle and follows in his footstep, and eventually goes to prison as he did,  only to return a find his own daughter, a victim of sex trafficking. Detective Avery Calhoun (Clifton Powell), T-Tony (De'aundre Bonds), Doug E. Fresh (Dookie Rain), Lefty (Mike Bonner), Jebediah Creed (Cody Fox), Kitty (Ebony Tates), Diamond (Cornisha 'Cookie' Smith)

The film puts a glaring spotlight on the issue of sex trafficking and the huge tole and price is places on its victims and society.

RETURN OF THE MACK: BACK FOR DA SMOKE provides the connection from the 1970s original The Mack in Oakland, CA, to today’s down and dirty life on the streets of Detroit. This shows how much things have changed and yet still stay the same.

RETURN OF THE MACK: BACK FOR DA SMOKE is a dynamic and gripping film that explores so many of the ills in world and gives a grime reminder of the importance of each of wanting to make a difference, not just when it affects you or a loved one, but any of our fellow human beings.

A great film that you should not miss.

Director Kamal Smith Director brings you along on this journey, helping you get a better understanding of how people get caught up in sex trafficking and prostitution.

The writers Chri Jason “Jayskillz” Collins, Brian Freeman, and Jami Freeman created dialogue and plots that were credible you can see scenes taking place in 2026.

Editor David Impiccatore Editing (choppy, flows from scene to scene)

The lighting and ambience set the stage for the drama and life altering events.

The film’s costume designs spoke volumes about the lifestyles of the film’s characters without having to say a word. Tied in perfectly with the storyline.

The selection of the streets of Detroit, MI, as the backdrop for filming was a smart choice, it brings authentic inner city living to the film. Nothing like the streets of Detroit.

After running things in the streets and reeking destruction on society, along with the women in his stable, Golden finds the tables turned on him and he finds himself having to fight against the same evils he committed when trying to help save his estranged daughter. Must see a film.

Release Date: April 17, 2026

Distributor: Quiver
Production Co: Grand Rising Productions
Producer: Executive Producers: Dejuan Ford, Brian Freeman, and Jami Freeman
Co-Executive Producers: Jerryck Cunningham, Sharon Thompson-Clayton and Edward Turner
Run time: 1 hour 42 minutes
Starring: Dejuan Ford, Clifton Powell, De’aundre Bonds, Mike Bonner, Cody Fox, And Ebony Tates
Director: Kamal Smith
Writers: Chri Jason “Jayskillz” Collins, Brian Freeman, and Jami Freeman
Editor: David Impiccator

Exit 8 is coming for Tribeca Members

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Tonight, Tribeca Members will close out the month at Casa Cipriani with a fireside chat between Rosanna Arquette and Tribeca's Nancy Lefkowitz.

On Apil 8, members can attend an advance screening of the highly anticipated new horror film Exit 8 from director Genki Kawamura—followed by a Q&A with Mr. Kawamura live onstage. And later in the month, they'll catch an advance screening of Original Sound, the film adaptation of the hit Off-Broadway play.

With Tribeca Festival around the corner, there's no better time to become a member. Membership gets you early ticket access to screenings, 10% off tickets, passes + merch, plus an invite to our exclusive Programmer Preview ahead of the Festival.

Get your insider pass to Tribeca today!

Become a Member!

Exit 8
Advance Screening
April 8 @ 6:00 PM | Japan Society

Exit 8 is based on the global hit eponymous video game created by Kotake Create. A man trapped in an endless sterile subway passageway sets out to find Exit 8. The rules of his quest are simple: do not overlook anything out of the ordinary. If you discover an anomaly, turn back immediately. If you don’t, carry on. Then leave from Exit 8. But even a single oversight will send him back to the beginning. Will he ever reach his goal and escape this infinite corridor?

After the Screening: A Q&A with director Genki Kawamura.

Original Sound
Advance Screening
April 20 @ 7:00 PM | Regal Union Square

Given by the pulse and rhythm of Brooklyn and QueeGig break when his track is pilfered by pop star Ryan Reed. To keep Danny quiet, Ryan's manager brokers a deal in which Ryan and Danny will collaborate on a few songs. Their work together introduces Danny to Manhattan's music scene and leads Ryan to pivot her career. Despite disappointment and betrayal Danny perseveres, finding solace and strength within his original sound.

After the Screening: A Q&A with star Laura Marano—plus more to be announced.

Executive Producer Octavia Spencer’s FEDS New Season on ID TV

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Offering unprecedented access inside the FBI, the season premiere episode ‘City Under Fire’ follows federal agents as they carry out an intense 72-hour investigation in 2015 after the East Coast experiences its first major terrorist attack since 9/11. The FBI searches for who is responsible for multiple bombings across New Jersey and New York – racing to track down the bomber and save thousands.

Additional episodes this season include:

Vanishing Act

Premieres Wednesday, March 11 at 9/8c

A 911 call comes in from the quiet luxury neighborhood of Ponte Vedra. A husband reports the kidnapping of his wife. The FBI races against time in the hope of locating the mom-of-two alive, but this case takes even the most experienced Agents by surprise.

We Sell Babies

Premieres Wednesday, March 18 at 9/8c

The Always Hope adoption center, run by Tara Lynn Lee, falls under suspicion of multiple families who are all left heartbroken after their adoptions fall through. However, the FBI begins to uncover a heartbreaking multi-state scam like no other.

Inside Job

Premieres Wednesday, March 25 at 9/8c

In Connecticut, an employee arrives at his bank with a bomb strapped to him, claiming he will die if not given money. In Tennessee, more bank employees begin robbing their own banks, each claiming they have been held hostage and forced into the crime.

Gangbuster

Premieres Wednesday, April 1 at 9/8c

A series of unsolved shootings and murders across Southern Florida leave a community terrorized under the threat of an unknown gang. Rookie FBI Special Agent Jessica Box makes it her mission to identify and dismantle this deadly crew.

Hired to Kill

Premieres Wednesday, April 8 at 9/8c

Over two years, a killer shoots multiple people dead in Philadelphia, but the killer's identity and motive remain unclear. The FBI and a dedicated Task Force soon uncover that they are dealing with a real-life hitman who calls himself the Real John Wick.

HUNTED BY MY HUSBAND: THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE DC SNIPER Premiering, October 28th on  Investigation Discovery (ID)

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The documentary premieres on Investigation Discovery on Tuesday, October 28th, from 9:00 pm - 11:00 pm ET/PT.

This October, Investigation Discovery (ID) proudly presents the fourth year of its impactful NO EXCUSE FOR ABUSE campaign in alignment with Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

HUNTED BY MY HUSBAND reveals the story of the DC Sniper and places Mildred Muhammad — the ex-wife of convicted DC Sniper John Muhammad — at the center of the narrative. Her testimony reveals the chilling reality that the violence that gripped the D.C. area in 2002 was not a series of random killings, but part of a calculated plan rooted in manipulation, control, and domestic abuse driven by a single, dark obsession: John's relentless desire to murder his ex-wife so he could have custody of their three children. The documentary reveals the harrowing torment Mildred endured, and the lengths to which her abuser would go to kill her, even at the cost of innocent lives.

HIGHEST 2 LOWEST: Save a Company or Save a Life

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Release dates: May 19, 2025, at Cannes, August 15, 2025, in the United States, and September 5, 2025 on Apple TV+

Director: Spike Lee
Screenplay: Alan Fox
Based on 1963 film High and Low by Akira Kurosawa
That is based on 1959 novel King's Ransom 1959 novel by Ed McBain
Starring: Denzel Washington, Jeffrey Wright, Ilfenesh Hadera, ASAP Rocky
Genre: Psychological thriller, crime, drama
Rating:
Running time: 2 hours 13 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English

David King (Denzel Washington), has to decide to save his music company or the life of a someone son. Paul Christopher (Jeffrey Wright), Pam King (Ilfenesh Hadera), Archie/Yung Felon (ASAP Rocky), Detective Earl Bridges (John Douglas Thompson), LaChanze as Detective Bell (Dean Winters), Trey King (Aubrey Joseph),  Kyle Christopher (Elijah Wright),  Patrick Bethea (Michael Potts),  Gabe (Wendell Pierce), Rosa Fuentes (Destiny Frasqueri),  Marisol Cepeda (Isis Gaston ("Ice Spice"), Alex Cordova (Frederick Weller), Frankie Da Lunatic (Nicholas Turturro), June York (Jensen McRae), Larry Friday (Andy McQueen),  Sula (Aiyana-Lee). Appearing as themselves: Rick Fox, Rod Strickland,Don Lemon, Eddie Palmieri, Anthony Ramos, and Rosie Perez

Production Companies: A24, Kurosawa Production, 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks, Escape Artists, Mandalay Pictures
Distributors: A24, Apple Original Films
Producers: Todd Black, Jason Michael Berman
Cinematographer: Matthew Libatique
Editor: Barry Alexander Brown, Allyson C. Johnson
Music: Howard Drossin

NETFLIX’S Emmy Afterparty, Adam Brody, Owen Cooper, Colman Domingo, Rashida Jones, and many more…

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Following the Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday, September 14, Netflix hosted a star-studded after party at NYA Studios West in Hollywood. Attendees included first-time Emmy Award-winners Owen Cooper, Erin Doherty and Stephen Graham as well as Emmy Award-nominees such as Adam Brody, Colman Domingo, Rashida Jones, Cooper Koch, Keri Russell, plus Malin Akerman, Awkwafina, Laverne Cox, Ted Danson, Fortune Feimster, Janelle James, Jude Law, Leanne Morgan, Mary Steenburgen and more. The evening also featured a performance and DJ set from Grammy Award-winning artist Anderson .Paak.

Netflix’s limited series Adolescence won six Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series. These six wins, along with their previously announced 24 award wins, brings Netflix’s win total to 30 wins across 14 titles, tying for the most Emmy wins of any network this season.

Fifteen-year-old Owen Cooper (Adolescence) also made history as the youngest male actor to win an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited/Anthology Series or TV Movie. He is also the youngest male actor to win an Emmy.

The African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) Celebrates the Best in Television Hollywood

Sponsored by Morgan Stanley Global Sports and Entertainment

TV Honors 8.23.25

On Saturday, August 23, 2025, AAFCA hosted its 7th Annual TV Honors at the Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood, CA.

Nneka Onuorah, Horizon Award honoree, got her start in the entertainment business as a BET intern and later, producer for Beverly Bond’s Black Girl. She made her directorial debut film “The Same Difference” about homophobia in the Black community. the producer and director of Megan Thee Stallion: In  Her Own Words. Rocks. In 2022, came the successful Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Girls.

Michelle Bueteau, winner of the Trailblazer Award, is a multitalented actress, comedian, producer, and more. She is the first female to tape a comedy special at the legendary Radio City Music. Her hilarious debut special earned Michelle the Critics Choice Award for Best Comedy Special.

Mara Brock Akil,  Legacy Award honoree. Creator of classic tv, Girlfriend, The Game, Being Mary Jane, and more.

Ayo Davis Salute,  Salute to Excellence Award honoree. President of Disney Branded Television.

Tina Perry, Visionary Award honoree, President of OWN

Keith Le Goy, TV Vanguard Award, Chairman of Sony Pictures Television (SPT)

Denise Nicholas, TV Icon Award. Denise began her theater journey with the Free Southern Theater, which used the performances as a form of protest. She later became a member of the Negro Ensemble and star in groundbreaking tv show, Room 227. An author of ‘Freshwater Road’ and the latest literature ‘Finding Home’ is on sale November 4, 2025.

Sterling K. Brown, winner Best Actor Award Paradise and Best Drama, Disney.

Paradise, Best Drama, Disney.

Kathy Bates, winner Best Actress, Matlock

The Supremes at Earl’s All You Can Eat, winner Best TV Movie, Disney.

Forever, winner Best New Show. Best Directors Anthony Hemingway, Thembi Banks, Mara Brock Akil and Regina King. Netflix.

Harlem,’ winner Best Comedy and top ten television program. ‘Cross’ Top Ten Television Program. Amazon MGM Studios.

Harlem, Best Comedy and Top Ten Television Program. Bel-Air, Best Ensemble, NBC Universal.

Skye P. Marshall, winner Breakthrough Talent  Matlock, CBS Original.

The GenZone, Best Reality, BET+ Original Series

The Big Cigar, Best Limited Series, Apple+TV

Number One on the Call Sheet, winner Best Documentary, Apple+TV

Stay Tuned for AAFCA Goes to Broadway, October 13, 2025

AMERICANA in Theaters Now!

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Lionsgate presents, a BRON Studios / Saks Pictures Company production, in association with Rhea Films and Hercules Film Fund / Creative Wealth Media

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Director and Writer: Tony Tost
Starring: Sydney Sweeney, Paul Walter Hauser, Halsey, Simon Rex, with Eric Dane, and Zahn McClarnon
Producer: Alex Saks
Genre: Thriller, Crime, Neo-Western
Rating: R for violence, language throughout and some sexual references
Language: English
Country: United States
Run time: 1 hour 47 minutes

AMERICANA  is an interesting cast of characters who fight over a piece of American Indian history after it ends up on the black market when waitress Penny Jo (Sydney Sweeney partners with a military veteran Lefty Ledbetter (Paul Walter Hauser) who is lonely for love, to find the artifact of it and putting them up against deadly crime boss Dillon MacIntosh (Eric Dane) working on behalf of a Western antiquities dealer (Simon Rex). Bloodshed ensues when others join the battle, including the leader of an indigenous group Ghost Eye (Zahn McClarnon) and a desperate woman fleeing her mysterious past, Mandy Starr (Halsey).

FOLLOW #AMERICANAMOVIE ONLINE

Official Site: https://www.lionsgate.com/movies/americana
Facebook: @Lionsgate
Instagram: @Lionsgate
Twitter: @Lionsgate

 

Blacklight in Production on Director Filmmaker Wes Millers’ Mercy Mercy Me Starring Lil Mama

 Jason Mitchell as Khaos in Mercy Mercy Me
Jason Mitchell as Khaos in Mercy Mercy Me
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Lil Mama Wes Millers’ Mercy Mercy Me

Director and writer: Wes Miller
Starring: Lil Mama, Jason Mitchell, Carlos Ponce

Director Wes Miller’s “Mercy Mercy Me” take you back to the 1980s as Mercy (Lil Mama) and Khaos (Jason Mitchell) are pulled back into a life of crime they thought was left far behind. A crime thriller we will be looking forward to viewing.