TRIBECA FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES OPENING NIGHT FOR 25TH ANNIVERSARY FESTIVAL

World Premiere of Questlove’s “Earth, Wind & Fire (To Be Celestial VS That’s the Weight of the World)”, Followed by Live Performance from Earth, Wind & Fire and The Roots at the Beacon Theatre on June 3

2026 Festival Passes Available at TribecaFilm.com; Single Tickets on Sale on April 28

New York, NY — Tuesday, April 14 — The Tribeca Festival, presented by OKX, announced today its Opening Night selection for the 25th anniversary edition, marking the first programming reveal for this milestone year. True to its long-standing commitment to music storytelling and live experiences–and championing artists who shape culture–the Festival will open with the world premiere of the HBO Original Documentary Earth, Wind & Fire (To Be Celestial VS That’s the Weight of the World), directed by Academy Award®- and GRAMMY Award®-winning filmmaker Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson. The screening will be followed by a live performance by nine-time GRAMMY Award-winning icons Earth, Wind & Fire and three-time GRAMMY Award-winning group The Roots at the Beacon Theatre on June 3. Tribeca Festival passes and ticket packages are on sale now at TribecaFilm.com, with the Hudson Pass offering the premier Festival experience, including VIP access and an invitation to either Opening or Closing Night. The 2026 Tribeca Festival Opening Night is presented by OKX and City National Bank.

“Opening Night is always a magical moment! This year, as we celebrate 25 years of the Festival, it is especially meaningful,” said Jane Rosenthal, Tribeca Festival Co-Founder and Co-Chair. “Tribeca was born in the wake of 9/11 with a belief: that storytellers have the power to bring communities together. For 25 years, we’ve seen artists, filmmakers, musicians, and audiences come together in New York City in ways that are inspiring, surprising, and deeply human. We are humbled by what’s been achieved and excited for the stories yet to come.”

Over the past two decades, Tribeca has become a home for music-driven storytelling and live performance, bringing artists and audiences together in ways that extend beyond the screen. From early community concerts in Lower Manhattan to premiere events that pair films with live performances and conversations, music has been part of the Festival’s DNA since its founding. In this milestone 25th year, that legacy comes full circle, as Earth, Wind & Fire returns to open the Festival after being a part of the Opening night celebrations in 2017, underscoring Tribeca’s enduring relationships with the artists who have shaped its history.

Tribeca’s history is rich with legendary music moments: David Bowie, Aretha Franklin, Elton John, Taylor Swift, Bono, Metallica, Carlos Santana, KISS, Jon Bon Jovi, Jennifer Lopez, Cyndi Lauper, Miley Cyrus, Depeche Mode, Nas, Herbie Hancock, The Black Eyed Peas, Jennifer Hudson, Sheryl Crow, Billy Idol, Wizkid, The National, and many more have graced the Festival stage and screen, contributing to its enduring legacy at the intersection of film, music, and New York City. These moments, whether intimate post-screening sets or onstage conversations, have become a defining part of the Tribeca experience.

“We are thrilled to welcome Questlove to the Festival to premiere a film that represents everything Tribeca stands for: creative pioneers at the top of their game in front of and behind the camera, showcasing the joy and community that great art manifests,” said Cara Cusumano, Tribeca Festival Director and SVP of Programming. “Paired with a rare live performance from Earth, Wind & Fire and The Roots, Opening Night will be a once-in-a-lifetime New York event that reflects the energy, creativity, and communal experience that has defined Tribeca for 25 years.”

Following the premiere, members of Earth, Wind & Fire will take the stage alongside The Roots for a live performance, continuing a tradition that has become a hallmark of the Festival’s music programming more broadly. The evening will conclude with an Opening Night after party at Tavern on the Green, the iconic Central Park restaurant and New York City landmark.

“It is an absolute honor to bring this project to the Tribeca Festival,” said Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson. “The past two years of deep research and creative magic surrounding Earth, Wind & Fire have been nothing short of transformative. They remain one of the most culturally significant bands in history, and this project finally illustrates exactly why their legacy is so vital.”

Earth, Wind & Fire (To Be Celestial VS That’s the Weight of the World) examines the band’s lasting legacy, cultural influence, and body of work, with rare access to archival materials and a focus on the vision of founder Maurice White. Building on Questlove’s acclaimed work in music documentaries, the film reflects Tribeca’s continued investment in artist-driven storytelling at the intersection of film and music. It will debut in the United States on HBO and will be available to stream on HBO Max in 2026. Produced by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, Dave Sirulnick and Samantha Grogin, KB White, and Arron Saxe. Executive Produced by Jon Kamen, Cheo Hodari Coker, Karla Zambrano, Zarah Zohlman, Shawn Gee, Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter, and Amos Newman.

Opening Night sets the tone for the anniversary Tribeca Festival, which will continue to highlight a wide range of storytelling across film, television, music, audio, games, and immersive work, welcoming artists and audiences from around the world to New York City.

To learn more about the Tribeca Festival programming team, visit TribecaFilm.com. The full Festival lineup will be announced soon. For updates, follow @Tribeca and #Tribeca2026 on Instagram, X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. 2026 Tribeca Festival passes and ticket packages are now available at tribecafilm.com.

A Night to Remember: Questlove and Earth, Wind & Fire to open Tribeca

Tribeca was born from the belief that storytellers have the power to bring communities together. As we mark our 25th Festival, we're humbled by everything we've built, and excited for the stories to come.

Our full program drops soon, but don't wait to secure your seat. The Hudson Pass and the limited-edition 25th Anniversary Pass offer access to the Opening Night event, plus so much more.

Get a pass

Earth, Wind & Fire (To Be Celestial VS That’s the Weight of the World)

World Premiere June 3rd at the Beacon Theatre

Academy Award winner Questlove kicks off the 25th Tribeca Festival with the boisterous, decades-spanning story of this legendary American band and its enigmatic founder, Maurice White. From humble beginnings to the epic, celestial, pyrotechnical stadium shows of their height, Questlove's celebratory doc showcases this iconic group's out-of-this-world music, visuals, metaphysics, and joy. In partnership with City National Bank.

After the Premiere: A performance by Earth, Wind & Fire and The Roots.

MPSE Announces Dates for the 2027 + 2028 Golden Reel Awards

MOTION PICTURE SOUND EDITORS (MPSE) ANNOUNCES DATES FOR

THE 74TH & 75TH ANNUAL MPSE GOLDEN REEL AWARDS

Recognizing outstanding achievement in sound editing and foley artistry in film, television, and game sound, the 74th Annual MPSE Golden Reel Awards is slated for

Sunday, March 7, 2027, in Los Angeles at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre

The 75th Anniversary Diamond Celebration will take place on Sunday, February 27, 2028,

also in Los Angeles at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre

Los Angeles, Calif. – April 10, 2026 – The Motion Picture Sound Editors (MPSE), the premier organization for entertainment sound editing professionals since 1953, today announced that the 74th and 75th Annual Golden Reel Awards will be held on Sunday, March 7, 2027 and Sunday, February 27, 2028 respectively. Both ceremonies will take place at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles. A detailed submissions and voting timeline will be released in the coming weeks for the 74th ceremony.

"The dates for the 2027 and 2028 Motion Picture Sound Editors' Golden Reel Awards have been set! We are thrilled and eagerly anticipate our annual gathering to honor the year's accomplishments in sound editing, sound design, music editing, and foley artistry," said MPSE President David Barber. "Gathering with our colleagues from around the globe to celebrate their artistic achievements is always a highlight of the year. We are especially excited to already be looking ahead to our 75th Annual Awards, the Diamond Celebration in 2028."

In addition to presenting awards in competitive categories recognizing outstanding achievement in sound editing and foley artistry in film, television and game sound, the MPSE also presents two honorary awards annually: the MPSE Filmmaker Award and the MPSE Career Achievement Award, the recipients of which will be announced later this year. The 2026 honorees were Kathleen Kennedy and Mark Mangini, respectively.

ABOUT THE MPSE

Founded in 1953, the Motion Picture Sound Editors (MPSE) is a global community of visionary sound artists who define the sonic experience of cinema, television, and games. From the subtle nuances of dialogue to the pulse-pounding roar of action, MPSE members are the not-so-silent heroes behind the immersive audio that brings stories to life, captivating audiences worldwide.

Through its vibrant network of professionals spanning 40 countries on 6 continents, the MPSE is dedicated to elevating the craft of sound and recognizing the indispensable role sound artists play in storytelling. The organization’s year-round calendar is packed with exciting events, including industry panels, educational workshops, networking opportunities, screenings and celebrations, including the prestigious Golden Reel Awards, which honor artistry and innovation in sound editing.

Committed to nurturing the next generation of sound talent, the MPSE offers mentorship programs and scholarships that provide aspiring sound professionals with the tools and support they need to achieve their goals. The MPSE further champions and celebrates the power of sound and the incredible artists who bring it to life through its quarterly publication, Wavelength.

ABFF 2026 Announces 30th Anniversary Slate Featuring Jamie Foxx, Coco Jones & More

THE 2026 AMERICAN BLACK FILM FESTIVAL (ABFF) UNVEILS 30th ANNIVERSARY SLATE

JAMIE FOXX, COURTNEY B. VANCE, JESSE WILLIAMS, COCO JONES, MARSAI MARTIN, LORETTA DEVINE TO PREMIERE FILMS

LOS ANGELES, CA (April 8, 2026) – The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) today announced its lineup of competitive film section features that will premiere at its 30th annual edition. This year’s milestone anniversary of ABFF with the celebratory theme “Homecoming,” returns to Miami Beach from May 27-31, 2026, honoring three decades of discovery and creative excellence.

The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the industry, showcasing bold storytelling and amplifying new creative voices on a global stage. The 2026 festival will host 16 World Premieres across Narrative Features, Documentary Features, and Series sections, with films representing more than 10 countries, including the U.S., France, Brazil, Italy, Cameroon, Canada, the U.K., and Nigeria. Audiences can look forward to a powerful selection of narrative and documentary features, with stories exploring immigration and deportation, global identity, political history and dictatorship, sports, music, and cultural legacy, and more.

Winners of the films in competition will be announced during the “Best of ABFF Awards” on Saturday, May 30.

“As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the American Black Film Festival, this year’s slate reflects the spirit of homecoming—honoring the stories and creative vision that have shaped our legacy while welcoming a new generation of filmmakers,” said NICE CROWD President Nicole Friday. “This milestone year brings together a compelling range of films from around the world. We’re proud to provide a platform where both emerging and established storytellers can connect with audiences, showcase their work, and help shape the future of cinema.”

U.S. NARRATIVE FEATURE COMPETITION

A juried section of feature-length films directed by, or written and produced by, persons of African descent. Selected films are eligible for Jury Awards, including the Grand Jury Prize for Best U.S. Narrative Feature, as well as honors for Directing, Screenwriting, and Performance.

The films selected for this section are:

Grand Jury Prize – U.S. Narrative Feature

Funny Feelings / U.S.A. (Director: Rhonda Baraka, Screenwriter: Je’Don Holloway-Talley, Producers: Roderick McClure, Joshua Ferrell, Morgan McClure) — A decade after building a comedy empire on their electric “are-they-or-aren’t-they” chemistry, two performers are forced to confront their unresolved feelings when a career-defining special unravels their act—and their truth—on a viral stage. Cast: Vena “Pretty Vee” Excell, Tristan “Mack” Wilds, Terri J. Vaughn. World Premiere.

Otra / U.S.A. (Director, Screenwriter, and Producer: Armani Ortiz, Producers: Asante White, Deance Wyatt, Daniel Etzioni, Chike Ubu, Maurice Harkless) — After a failed marriage proposal leaves him questioning love, Javier strikes a deal with his Guardian Angel to win back the woman of his dreams before his untimely death claims him for good — in this new-age, one-shot Latino musical. Cast: Rome Flynn, María Gabriela De Faría, Dania Ramírez, Aria Celeste Castillo, Armani Ortiz. World Premiere.

Southside Kev / U.S.A. (Director, Screenwriter, and Producer: Jamel Furlow, Producers: Samuel C. Morrison, James Furlow, Charlene Coleman, KK Rosemond, Shatek King) — A misguided teenager in South Jamaica, Queens, struggles to earn respect in the streets without losing the innocence that still defines him. Cast: Nathan Lewis, Alpachino Howard, Naomi Taylor, Brandon Chastang. World Premiere.

The Fridge / U.S.A. (Director, Screenwriter, and Producer: Solvan Slick Naim, Screenwriter: Lane Williamson, Producers: Datari Turner, Marsai Martin, Jamie Foxx) — A tough, queer teenager leaves Brooklyn for the first time to spend the summer with her estranged, struggling composer father in Los Angeles. The two are forced to reconnect over a used refrigerator that nearly upends their father-daughter relationship in the process. Cast: Marsai Martin, Courtney B. Vance. World Premiere.

Three Colors: Pan-African / U.S.A. (Directors: Elijah Davis, Allison A. Waite, Tyler Ocasio Holmes, Screenwriters: Madou Elijah Diarrassouba, Gillian Allou, JaQuay Collins, Elijah Davis, Dami Olatunji, Producers: Elijah Davis, Jack McMann, Dami Olatunji, Joseph B. Agboola, Chirsten Vanderbilt Ellis) — A triptych of Black stories that correlate with the colors of the Pan-African flag: RED (Liberation), A collegiate football star scrambles to save his career after a devastating injury fractures his sense of self-worth; BLACK (Unity), a Ghanaian single mother loses her job and faces deportation as an unlikely group of heroes rally around her; GREEN (Prosperity), the lead of a struggling Black sitcom questions the cost of success as the network forces the show into racist caricature to boost ratings. Cast: Loretta Devine, Bashir Salahuddin, Peyton Alex Smith, Sibongile Mlambo, Stephen Bishop, Kimrie Lewis.

U.S. NARRATIVE FEATURE SHOWCASE

A curated section of independent feature-length films highlighting new voices and distinctive storytelling from creators of African descent. The films selected for this section are:

Montmartre / U.S.A., France (Director, Screenwriter, and Producer: Leon Hendrix III, Producers: Ito Aghayere, Maurice D. Hendrix, Jill Officer) — Disillusioned with her disconnected life, Jo visits the storied French district of Montmartre, where she falls for Toussaint, an eloquent tour guide, and their romance entwines Black history, art and love, reconnecting Jo to her long-lost passion for life. Cast: Jesse Williams, Ito Aghayere, Melanie Nicholls-King, Deborah Lukumuena, Firmine Richard.

Voices: The Musical / U.S.A. (Director: Deantè Gray, Screenwriters: Sam Buckner III, Charlie T. Savage, Producers: Sam Buckner III, Ski-ter Jones, Charlie T. Savage, Brandon Lee Ward, Aya Washington) — When a rising soul duo overdose just hours before their big break, a desperate bellhop and his closest friends seize the chance of a lifetime, only to discover that the price of fame is blood. Cast: Francis C. Edemobi, Ezekiel Ajeigbe, Raèl Ba, Pedro Louis, Joe Maye. World Premiere.

Hoop Street / U.S.A. (Director: Princeton James, Screenwriter: Teresa Dickerson, Producers: Meleisha Edwards, Teresa Dickerson, Jordan Danelz, Mark Williams) — Barred from his high school basketball team due to his temper, a hot-head, street-baller battles demons from his past and present to earn a spot on a summer league team and his last shot at a college basketball scholarship. Cast: Benjamin Holmes, Jeremiah Roberts, Kenneth Farmer. U.S. Premiere.

A Story About You / U.S.A. (Director: Joseph E. Austin II, Screenwriter: Denise Yolén, Producers: Denise Yolén, Joseph E. Austin II, Jeremy Harris) — A man is forced to come to terms with his past as he navigates his week with various love interests. Cast: Shannon Wallace, Pernell Walker, Denise Yolén, Shiree Nicholas Christopher, Adwoa Duncan-Williams, Monique Lindsey.

Sr. / U.S.A. (Director: Toroes Thomas Jr., Screenwriters: Toroes Thomas Jr., Blayre Pichon, Producers: Blayre Pichon, Sean Banks) — After a struggling father takes his two kids on the run from social services, he tries to shield them from their harsh reality with a promise of the beach, but as his son Junior patiently waits for him to keep that promise, he’s forced to grow up early and challenge his father’s demons to get his family to their happy place. Cast: Micaiah Jones, Donnell Jones, Jade Telesford, Melan Perez.

93 ‘til / U.S.A. (Director and Screenwriter: Alterik Miller, Producers: Alterik Miller, Richard Lee Noel, Petey McGee, Alicia Turner, LaRoyce Hawkins, Sophia Lucia Parola) — Two struggling Philadelphia artists meet at a job fair and spend one perfect day falling in love—no phones, no filters, just presence—before a toxic ex and a violent robbery tear them apart, forcing them to search the city to find each other again and choose love despite uncertainty. Cast: Petey McGee, Sophia Lucia Parola, LaRoyce Hawkins, Keith Arthur Bolden, Kris D. Lofton, Taryn Delanie Smith, Jason C. Louder. World Premiere.

Waking Up Horny / U.S.A. (Director and Screenwriter: Michael Arcell, Producers: Barry Brewer, Wendy Wang, Annalea Fiachi) — When a successful but emotionally guarded psychologist spirals through a chaotic string of sexual misadventures, she must confront the battle between desire, self-worth, and the version of love she keeps avoiding. Cast: Brandi Denise, Angell Conwell, Brandon Joseph. World Premiere.

Homage / U.S.A. (Director and Producer: Miles Mussenden, Screenwriter and Producer: Dianne Diaz, Producers: Samantha Van Sickle, Kristen Nothstein) — A reformed street figure risks everything when he tries to help an old friend fresh out of prison, only to discover that some debts don’t disappear; they come back to collect. Cast: Miles Mussenden, Majah Hype, Nadirah Shakir-Ramseur, Kameron Washington, Noah Jay Wood. World Premiere.

THAT’S HER / U.S.A. (Director: Nina Lee, Screenwriters: Dewayne Colley, Tiffany Yancey, Nina Lee, Producers: Stephen “Dr.” Love, Dewayne Colley) — When a corporate-climbing playboy falls in love with a girl-next-door office temp and with a high-powered executive, he must choose between love and leveling up. Cast: Kountry Wayne, Coco Jones, Emmy Raver-Lampman, Loretta Devine, Charity Jordan, J. Alphonse Nicholson, Tabitha Brown. World Premiere.

Bust! / U.S.A. (Director, Screenwriter, and Producer: Richie Kamtchoum, Producers: Greg Oden, Sherwyn Santos, Danny April, Cindy Kamtchoum, Monique Henry) — A former professional basketball player attempts a comeback through a fledgling sportswear company. Cast: Richie Kamtchoum, Casey Lawrence, Liam Harrington, Brittany Erica, DeJeanette Horne, Karen Smith, Richard Garifo, Bernard Clark.

ATHENA A.I. / U.S.A. (Director and Producer: Corey Grant, Screenwriters: Lanett Tachel, Brian Kelsey, Craig Motlong, Producers: Lanett Tachel, Phaedra Harris, Chris Beal, Carol Shine, Brian Pratt) — In 2035, in a seemingly perfected America, an exclusive dinner party turns deadly when its co-host, an unreleased A.I. named ATHENA, hijacks the night and forces guests into a series of games they must survive rather than play. Cast: Lanett Tachel, Redaric Williams, Marissa Shankar, Andrew J. Katers, Anjianna Grasso, Marvin Ryan, Stephen P. Nemphos. World Premiere.

INTERNATIONAL NARRATIVE FEATURE COMPETITION

A juried section of feature-length films from international filmmakers, highlighting bold storytelling and diverse global perspectives. Selected works are eligible for the Grand Jury Prize for Best International Narrative Feature. The films selected for this section are:

Garden of Silences / Brazil, Italy (Director, Screenwriter, and Producer: Henrique Dantas, Producers: Eliane Ferreira, Alessandro Borrelli) — After years in Italy, Tuã, a Black oncologist, returns to Brazil to confront his family's past marked by the dictatorship, navigating loss, silence, and memory in a journey of reconciliation and belonging. Cast: Fabrício Boliveira, Helena Ignez, Luiz Pepeu, Federica De Benedittis. World Premiere.

Lights Out / Cameroon (Director: Enah Johnscott, Screenwriter: Nfua Buh Melvin, Producers: Carista Asonganyi, Nfua Buh Melvin) — Every memory is a clue or a curse. Cast: Wale Ojo, Shaffy Bello, Ngongang Elizabeth Wandji, Syndy Emade, Libota MacDonald. U.S. Premiere.

Seahorse / Canada (Director and Screenwriter: Aisha Evelyna, Producer: Natalie Remplakowski) — A sous chef’s pursuit of stability is tested by the return of her estranged father, now living on the streets of Toronto. Cast: Aisha Evelyna, Joseph Marcell, Ruth Goodwin, Brett Donahue, Alden Adair.

Small Gods / U.K. (Director: Asher Rosen, Screenwriters: Asher Rosen, Luke Reilly, Cimpaye Florence Mariserena, Bizimana Hussain, Producers: Andreas Raold, Jack Pollington, Shema Faustin) — A landless single mother meets a charismatic street performer, discovering newfound hope for the future of her young son. Cast: Cimpaye Florence Mariserena, Bizimana Hussain, Turinayo Jotham. U.S. Premiere.

DOCUMENTARY FEATURE COMPETITION (U.S. & INTERNATIONAL)
A juried section of feature-length documentaries showcasing powerful nonfiction storytelling centered on the global Black experience, encompassing real-world stories, cultural history, and contemporary issues. Selected works are eligible for the Grand Jury Prize for Best Documentary Feature. The films selected for this section are:

Black Is Beautiful: The Kwame Brathwaite Story / U.S.A., U.K. (Director: Yemi Bamiro, Producers: Joanna Boateng, Lizzie Gillett, Ian Bonhôte, Andrew Calof) — The story of Kwame Brathwaite, the virtually unknown Harlem photographer and activist who helped popularize the iconic "Black is Beautiful" movement across a 60-year, 500,000-photo career devoted to celebrating African American joy and beauty.. Cast: Kwame Brathwaite, Alicia Keys, Swizz Beatz.

The Foolishness of God: A Forgiveness Journey with Desmond Tutu / U.S.A. (Director and Producer: Karen Hayes, Producer: Rana Kazkaz) — An African American activist travels across continents with Desmond Tutu to confront the limits of justice and discovers that the path to political and personal change begins with an unexpected plea: forgive. Cast: Desmond Tutu. World Premiere.

Cycles of Resilience: A Journey Through Austin's Black History / U.S.A. (Director: Ya’Ke Smith, Producers: Lauren Vunderink, Talib Abdullahi) — On Black History Bike Ride's 6th annual Juneteenth Ride, led by Talib Abdullahi, hundreds of cyclists bike together to learn under-told stories of Black history in Austin, Texas. Cast: Talib Abdullahi. World Premiere.

ALTADENA – Rising From The Ashes / U.S.A. (Director and Producer: Ethan Lader, Producers: Zaire Calvin, Samantha Stokes) — After the Eaton Fire reduces Altadena, CA, a historically Black town and California’s first Black middle-class community, to ash, three childhood friends confront loss, legacy, and lead their community’s fight to rebuild. Cast: Zaire Calvin, Ben Crump, Darren Lloyd, Elic Mahone. World Premiere.

DOCUMENTARY FEATURE SHOWCASE
A curated section of feature-length documentaries showcasing bold, distinctive nonfiction storytelling from both new and established filmmakers of African descent. The films selected for this section are:

Beyond / U.S.A. (Directors and Producers: Asia Johnson, Michael Kleiman) — At Sing Sing prison, a group of incarcerated men organize and prepare for a TED-style event, featuring personal narratives and ideas for changing the prison system. Cast: Robert Clegg, Paul Cortez, Paul Davidson.

TRESPASS / U.S.A. (Director and Producer: Kim Watson, Producers: Salim Akil, Natalie Hill, Tasha Smith) — Blending his poetic narration with arresting cinematography and street photography, Kim Watson’s documentary TRESPASS captures five years inside Los Angeles’ unhoused communities—revealing the resilience, dignity, and humanity of those forced to the margins of the American Dream.

BEYOND THE RIM - THE HEART OF D'TIGRESS / Nigeria, U.S.A. (Director: Adesua Okosun, Producers: Deniese Davis, Vinay Vaswani, Enyi Omeruah) — Against impossible odds, D'Tigress transforms from underdogs to unstoppable, becoming the first African team to reach an Olympic quarterfinal. Cast: Rena Wakama. World Premiere.

SERIES COMPETITION
A juried section of episodic storytelling from emerging and established creators working across television and digital platforms, highlighting bold, distinctive voices. Selected works are eligible for the Grand Jury Prize for Best Episodic Series. The series selected for this section are:

Law’s World: Lipstick Bandit / U.S.A. (Creator, Writer, and Director: Law Artis, Producers: Danae Grandison, Law Artis) — A sassy pansexual sex blogger prepares for a high-profile house tour, but his plans are derailed by his narcissistic bestie, determined to retrieve something she claims is irreplaceable. Cast: Law Scott, Nikki.

Love Song / U.S.A. (Creator, Writer, and Director: Nofisat “Love Nafi” Almaroof, Producers: Mohamed Williams, Okema T. Moore, Agnes Erskine, Nadia Sasso) — A married music producer’s morning commute takes a turn when he runs into a former flame, forcing him to choose between family, creative passion, and a love he left behind. Cast: Mohamed Williams, Okema T. Moore, Simone Posey, Adrian Arthur, Montana Monroe Jenkins, Ava Barnett, Taylen Washington. World Premiere.

The Comic Shop / U.S.A. (Creator and Writer: Cheyenne Ewulu, Director: Jalen Blot, Producers: Simone Kirlew, Victor Lord, Cheyenne Ewulu) — Under the regular threat of eviction and the looming competition of a big box store, a quirky group of friends strive to keep their comic store afloat by any ridiculous means necessary. Cast: Cheyenne Ewulu, Zeno Robinson, Grayson Niles, Shanae Cole, Hayley Law.

Ti Blan / U.S.A. (Creator and Writer: Noah Petion Laforest, Director: Dwight Ellis Jr., Producers: Sydney Crawford, Noah Petion Laforest) — After being sent to live with his estranged grandmother, a troubled Haitian-American teen must navigate family expectations, unfamiliar culture, and the burden of a struggling family restaurant, while a looming debt threatens the new path he’s fighting to forge. Cast: Matthew Fabien, Marie Henry, Chantal Jean-Pierre, Pascal Michel, Portland Thomas, Wayne Vielot, Mark Logan, Clifford Michel, Corey Hibbert.

AWOL / U.S.A. (Creator, Writer, and Director: Christian Henley, Producers: Christian Henley, Josh Patterson, Joachim Gautier) — Set to the backdrop of a failing Special-Education high school, new recruit, Christian, is faced with fixing much more than the students if he wishes to be successful. Cast: Christian Henley, KaSandre L. Kirby, Maya Shimoji, Eve Danzeisen, Matthew Von Der Ahe.

Takes A Village / U.S.A. (Creator, Writer, and Director: LaDarius “Dee” Torrey, Producers: Letia Solomon, Khari Johnson, LaDarius Torrey) — Takes A Village follows 17-year-old Zeke, a top student and Division I prospect, whose path out of his Mississippi Gulf Coast town is threatened by an unexpected pregnancy, family decline, and the pull of the streets—forcing him to choose between survival and escape. Cast: Xavier Mills, Tanyell Quian, Champ Johnson.

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 (Presenting), City of Miami Beach, American Airlines (Major), Sony Pictures Entertainment (Official), Netflix, with the support of the Miami Beach Visitor And Convention Authority, Hartbeat, L'Oréal Groupe, STARZ (Supporting), Motion Picture Association, Uber (Contributing), Nielsen, Fulton Films GA (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.

To receive ABFF notifications by email, sign up HERE!

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/

American Black Film Festival Launches Global Online Masterclass Series to Empower the Next Generation of Storytellers

LOS ANGELES, CA — [March 16, 2026] — Building on nearly three decades as the entertainment industry’s premier pipeline for Black talent, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) today announced the launch of the ABFF Masterclass Series, a new year-round online learning platform designed to give emerging creatives direct access to some of the industry’s most accomplished directors, producers, and executives.

The inaugural session of the series, programmed in association with New York Film Academy (NYFA), will take place on March 26, 2026, featuring “Crafting Standout Screenplays,” led by producer and screenwriter Carolyn McDonald. This 75-minute program will cover the basics of a 3-act feature screenplay, along with elements that offer participants tools to enhance their screenwriting skills to create signature works that stand out. For more information and to register, please click the link HERE.

The ABFF Masterclass Series launches in response to growing global demand for high-quality, accessible professional development within the entertainment industry. Designed as a quarterly online webinar program, the series will feature leading filmmakers, executives, and creative leaders sharing insights into both the craft and business of storytelling.

Hosted live via Zoom, the program will provide participants with expert-led conversations on directing, producing, film finance, screenwriting, acting, AI-driven storytelling, and emerging creative technologies. Each session combines professional instruction, real-world case studies, and interactive Q&A, creating a dynamic learning environment for the next generation of storytellers.

“For nearly 30 years, ABFF has served as a premier discovery platform for new voices in film and television,” said Nicole Friday, Co-Founder & President of NICE CROWD. “The Masterclass Series is a natural evolution of that mission. By extending our reach beyond the annual festival, we are helping bridge the gap between aspiration and opportunity by bringing the industry’s playbook directly to storytellers—no matter where they are in the world.”

The 2026 Masterclass curriculum will explore the full spectrum of today’s entertainment landscape, equipping creators with practical insights into both the creative and business sides of the industry. Key topic areas will include:

- The Director’s Chair: Crafting a creative vision for film and television.
- The Business of Indie Film: Financing, packaging, and distribution strategies.
- Script to Screen: Advanced screenwriting and story development.
- The Digital Frontier: Navigating AI, XR, and emerging storytelling technologies.
- Career Navigation: Acting craft and the business of talent.

The launch of the Masterclass Series also comes as the American Black Film Festival approaches its landmark 30th anniversary, which will be celebrated May 27–31, 2026, in Miami Beach. Since its founding in 1997, ABFF has played a critical role in launching the careers of filmmakers and actors whose work has helped shape contemporary film and television.

Delivered in a virtual format, the Masterclass Series connects emerging storytellers with industry expertise while fostering a global community navigating the evolving landscape of independent and studio production.

About the American Black Film Festival (ABFF)

Founded in 1997 by Jeff Friday, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is the premier festival dedicated to recognizing Black talent and showcasing film and television content created by and about people of African descent. Widely regarded as the industry’s leading pipeline for emerging Black storytellers, 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 filmmakers, industry executives, and audiences from around the world for a five-day celebration of storytelling, culture, and career advancement through 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/

ANG LEE TO RECEIVE THE ACE GOLDEN EDDIE FILMMAKER OF THE YEAR AWARD FROM AMERICAN CINEMA EDITORS (ACE)

KIM LARSON & YOUTUBE TO RECEIVE VISIONARY AWARD, AND EDITORS ARTHUR FORNEY, ACE AND ROBERT LEIGHTON TO RECEIVE CAREER ACHIEVEMENT HONORS

76th Annual ACE Eddie Awards Set for Friday, February 27, 2026 at UCLA’s Royce Hall in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA – January 21, 2025 – American Cinema Editors (ACE) is proud to announce that two-time Oscar® winning filmmaker Ang Lee will be receiving the ACE Golden Eddie Filmmaker of the Year award at the 76th Annual ACE Eddie Awards taking place Friday, February 27, 2026 at UCLA’s Royce Hall, where winners will also be announced in 14 competitive categories recognizing the best film editing achievements of the year in film and television. Kim Larson, Managing Director and Head of YouTube’s Creator and Gaming team, will be accepting YouTube’s previously announced ACE Visionary Award, and Emmy winning editor/director Arthur Forney, ACE, and Oscar® nominated editor Robert Leighton will receive ACE Career Achievement awards.

Lee joins an impressive group of Golden Eddie award recipients including Jon M. Chu, John Waters, Gina Prince-Bythewood, Spike Lee, Quentin Tarantino, Kathleen Kennedy, Christopher Nolan, Lauren Shuler Donner, Guillermo del Toro, Steven Spielberg, Vince Gilligan, Alexander Payne, J.J. Abrams, Nancy Meyers, Martin Scorsese, Norman Jewison, Robert Zemeckis, George Lucas, and the Sundance Institute, among others.

“Ang Lee’s exploration of our most closely held emotions has ignited an international passion for cinema for over 30 years”, said ACE president, Sabrina Plisco, ACE. “The breadth of his filmography is unparalleled, ranging from the intimate and boundary-breaking romance of Brokeback Mountain, to the epic drama of Life of Pi and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, to even the pre-MCU Marvel film Hulk.”

This year’s ACE Visionary Award recognizes Larson and YouTube’s profound impact on visual storytelling as a whole, the importance of digital content and spaces in the evolving media landscape, and ACE’s ongoing work to support creatives of all kinds across both traditional and digital spaces. The recognition is given in the spirit of previous honors bestowed upon pioneering companies such as Avid, and celebrates YouTube and Kim’s role in empowering a global generation of visual storytellers.

“Kim Larson was the natural choice to represent YouTube in our inaugural year recognizing creator content,” Plisco went on to say. “She has played a key role in the growth of digital entertainment, supports creators at the highest level, and helps elevate independent voices shaping modern storytelling.

“This year’s Career Achievement Award honorees are equally exemplary,” Plisco noted. “Arthur Forney, ACE, was the backbone of post-production at Dick Wolf’s Wolf Entertainment for more than 30 years, overseeing landmark series including Law & Order. Robert Leighton shepherded the editing room for American icon Rob Reiner across 15 films - including When Harry Met Sally, A Few Good Men, and This is Spinal Tap - shaping some of the most enduring works in modern cinema.”

Past recipients of the ACE Career Achievement Award are some of the best and most beloved editors in the industry, including Maysie Hoy, ACE, Paul Hirsch, ACE, Lynne Willingham, ACE, Don Zimmerman, ACE, Lillian Benson, ACE, Richard Chew, ACE, Alan Heim, ACE, Tina Hirsch, ACE, Thelma Schoonmaker, ACE, Janet Ashikaga, ACE, Craig McKay, ACE, Jerrold L. Ludwig, ACE, Mark Goldblatt, ACE, and Leon Ortiz-Gil, ACE, among many others.

Nominations for the 76th Annual ACE Eddie Awards will be announced January 27.

Broadway Star, Grammy Nominated Singer, Actress & Climate Champion Antonique Smith Takes Center Stage As Global Ambassador For Historic “Sun Day” Clean Energy Movement On September 21st

A true multi-hyphenate and CEO of Climate Revival, Smith has been named the official Global Ambassador for Sun Day, the first ever international day of action and celebration for clean energy launching September 21, 2025.

Los Angeles, CA – July 31, 2025 –Antonique Smith, the powerhouse vocalist and actress best known for her starring role as Mimi in Rent on Broadway, is once again taking center stage on a global scale, this time as the newly named Ambassador for Sun Day, a unique climate action and clean energy celebration launching September 21, 2025.

Founded by renowned climate author and 350.org co-founder Bill McKibben, Sun Day is a bold, grassroots movement merging climate justice, cultural celebration, and community action. Sun Day aims to shine a global light on the power of solar and wind energy to build a cleaner, fairer, and more hopeful world. It’s more than just a tribute to the sun, it’s a day of action. Communities around the world will host everything from electric bike parades and solar home tours to clean energy concerts, policy marches, and community rallies.

“As the official Ambassador of Sun Day, I am excited to educate and encourage communities across the Globe to understand the importance of Clean Energy and Solar Power. We all have a responsibility to do our part to fight climate change,” says Antonique Smith, acclaimed actress, co-founder of Climate Revival, and Global Ambassador for Sun Day. “Solar energy is cheaper, healthier, and a job creator. In a world full of fear and chaos, Sun Day is about bringing awareness to climate solutions we already have and fighting to get them implemented for the sake of future generations.”

This announcement comes in the wake of President Trump's “Big Beautiful Bill”, which will impact the biggest clean energy tax credits in U.S. history, including the 30% solar installation credit and $7,500 EV rebate that millions rely on. These rollback deadlines mean working families, renters, and communities hit hardest by climate change could lose access to life-changing support. We’re in a solar sprint to install clean energy systems and claim these benefits before they vanish.

Antonique Smith is no stranger to activism. Beyond the stage and screen, she has spent more than a decade as a powerful voice for climate and social justice. Through Climate Revival, the nonprofit she co-founded in 2024 with climate leader Rev. Lennox Yearwood, Smith is dedicated to mobilizing communities of color and faith to recognize how climate issues are already impacting their lives.

“Antonique is a force both artistically and within the climate movement,” says Bill McKibben. “Not only is she a gifted entertainer, but the way she has been committed to the climate mission with the goal of educating and inspiring, makes her the perfect Ambassador for Sun Day.”

Sun Day is backed by a powerful coalition of climate and justice organizations, including:

Fossil Free Media, Bright Saver, Cooperative Energy Futures, EcoMadres, GreenFaith, Justice Environment, Local Motion, Moms Clean Air Force, Music Declares Emergency, RE-volv, Rewiring America, Sierra Club, Solar Faithful, Solar United Neighbors, Third Act, and the United Church of Christ.

Organizers are providing a free toolkit with everything needed to create impactful local events, from event ideas to communications materials. Whether you’re cutting the ribbon on a solar park, lighting up a green bulb in your solar-powered home, or rallying for clean energy policy, everyone can join the Sun Day movement.

How to get involved:
Host a local event
Download the toolkit

Join or support an existing Sun Day action near you

Visit https://sunday.earth/ to get started.

SERIESFEST Season 11: SIX DAYS OF PANELS, PILOT COMPETITIONS, PARTIES AND SPECIAL EVENTS!

SeriesFest hosted their annual Soirée in Denver, Colorado, where they honored Jason Ritter ("Matlock”, "Gravity Falls") with the "Distinguished Artist Award," Rhea Seehorn ("Better Call Saul”, "Cooper's Bar") with the “Excellence in Acting” Award, and Carnival Films with the "Impact in Television Award."

The star-studded event included Denver Governor Jared Polis, Colorado Senator Michael Bennet, as well as talent from across several of SeriesFest's panels and events. Mayan Lopez (Actor, “Lopez vs. Lopez”), Audrey Morrissey (Showrunner and Executive Producer, "The Voice"), Jocko Sims ( Actor, "Grosse Pointe Garden Society"), Kit Williamson (Creator, Writer and Actor, “Unconventional”), Eric Ledgin (Showrunner and Executive Producer, "St. Denis Medical"), and more gathered to celebrate the honorees and SeriesFest 11!

Take Your Film Festival Experience to the Next Level with Tribeca Membership

With so many world premieres and exclusive events at this year’s Festival, we wanted Tribeca Members to be the first to hear about all the can’t-miss moments. Our Programmer Preview brought Members and filmmakers together at NeueHouse to celebrate the slate and hear directly from the Programming team about what the 2025 Festival has in store.

From under-the-radar premieres to buzzworthy indies, the team shared the Festival’s hidden gems, helping Tribeca Members build their perfect Festival schedule.

Don’t miss the chance to elevate your Festival experience. Become a Tribeca Member for early ticket access, Member-exclusive screenings during the Festival (and year-round!), and so much more.

Tribeca Members also get:

- 10% off select* passes, packages, and single tickets
  - *Exclusions apply. Discount is not valid for Beacon Theatre events.
- 10% off Festival merchandise in person and online
- Members-only Festival screenings
- On-site perks like access to our lounges at the Tribeca Festival hub

Get the true insider experience with a Tribeca Membership — and ensure you have access to the best of the Fest.

Tribeca’s inaugural Storytelling Summit

Where Vision Meets Possibility

Where Vision Meets Possibility

We’re excited to announce a new addition to this year’s program: the Tribeca Storytelling Summit — a festival-within-the-festival for the entire filmmaking community.

Buy Tickets Here!

The multi-day summit will take place June 5-15 alongside the Festival, bringing together visionary filmmakers, storytellers, and industry leaders for thoughtfully curated panels, intimate workshops, and networking opportunities. Designed specifically to help foster collaboration and supercharge careers, this year’s inaugural Storytelling Summit will be the start of the next wave of storytelling success in TV, film, digital media, and beyond.

To kick things off, we announced our first featured speakers, including Christine Vachon, Julio Torres, Steve Buscemi and Wren Arthur, Jeremy O. Harris, and our own Jane Rosenthal. When you attend our Storytelling Summit, you’ll gain insights from industry veterans like these, while also connecting with a diverse group of fellow creatives (and maybe even see a film or two).

The Tribeca Storytelling Summit is open to anyone with a story to tell. Badges are $250 and provide full access to the Summit’s programming June 5-15.

Find more details about the event at tribecafilm.com/storytellingsummit.