WINNERS ANNOUNCED FOR THE 16th ANNUAL AAFCA AWARDS

PRESENTED BY THE AFRICAN AMERICAN FILM CRITICS ASSOCIATION (AAFCA)

THE PIANO LESSON, NICKEL BOYS and SING SING Lead with Multiple Wins; Best Documentary Category Sees a Tie

Winners include Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Colman Domingo, Andra Day, Danielle Deadwyler, RaMell Ross and ‘The Wild Robot’

The 16th Annual AAFCA Awards ceremony will be held on February 19 at the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel

LOS ANGELES, CA - Dec. 13, 2024 - The African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) today announced the winners of its 16th annual AAFCA Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to cinema, along with its selections for the top ten films of the year.

Winners will be celebrated at the 16th Annual AAFCA Awards on February 19 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills. The announcement was made by AAFCA president and co-founder Gil Robertson. “This has been a defining year for cinema, with an impressive array of stories that capture the complexity, resilience, and beauty of the human experience,” said AAFCA president and co-founder Gil Robertson. “We are proud to honor this year's filmmakers and talent, whose work continues to expand the scope of humanity on screen. These films do more than entertain—they amplify voices and perspectives that deserve to be heard, and we look forward to celebrating their lasting impact.”

AAFCA’s Top 10 Films list and the winners of the 16th Annual AAFCA Awards are:

AAFCA’S TOP 10 FILMS OF THE YEAR

1. Nickel Boys

2. Sing Sing

3. The Piano Lesson

4. Gladiator II

5. Wicked

6. Emilia Pérez

7. Albany Road

8. The Fire Inside

9. Exhibiting Forgiveness

10. Dahomey

WINNERS | 16TH ANNUAL AAFCA AWARDS

Best Actor: Colman Domingo (Sing Sing)

Best Actress: Marianne Jean-Baptiste (Hard Truths)

Best Supporting Actor: Clarence Maclin (Sing Sing)

Best Supporting Actress: Danielle Deadwyler (The Piano Lesson)

Best Ensemble: The Piano Lesson

Best Original Score: The Wild Robot (Kris Bowers)

Best Original Song: Bricks, Exhibiting Forgiveness (Andra Day, Cassandra Batie & Jherek Bischoff)

Best Screenplay: Sing Sing (Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar)

Best Director: RaMell Ross (Nickel Boys)

Best Documentary: *TIE* Daughters (Netflix), Dahomey (Mubi)

Best Animated Feature: The Wild Robot

Best International Film: Emilia Pérez

Best Independent Feature: She Taught Love

Best Picture: Nickel Boys

NICOLE AVANT, MALCOLM WASHINGTON, AND ‘NICKEL BOYS’ AMONG HONOREES AT THE 2025 SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS LUNCHEON AND THE 16TH ANNUAL AAFCA AWARDS

Presented by the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA), these invite-only events usher in Black History Month by shining a spotlight on the trailblazing achievements of these esteemed honorees.

LOS ANGELES, CA - Nov. 27, 2024 - The African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) is proud to announce its honorees for the 2025 Special Achievement Awards and the 16th Annual AAFCA Awards. The Special Achievement Awards take place on Sunday, February 2, 2025 at the Los Angeles Athletic Club, and the 16th Annual AAFCA Awards on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel.

The 2025 Special Achievement Awards honorees include:

Lynn Whitfield, Legacy Award
Brandon Wilson and Ethan Herisse, Gen Next Award
“Nickel Boys,” Karen & Stanley Kramer Social Justice Award
Amber Rasberry, Horizon Award

The 16th Annual AAFCA Awards honorees include:

Nicole Avant, Beacon Award
Malcolm Washington, Emerging Director Award
Ray Fisher, Breakout Performance Award
RaMell Ross, Spotlight Award
“Our honorees set a high standard of discipline, talent, and hard work that inspires others to strive for greatness,” said AAFCA President and Co-Founder Gil Robertson. “In our present environment, it’s more important than ever to acknowledge the examples that they've set. Their contributions reflect a level of excellence that propels our industry forward.”

NICOLE AVANT - BEACON AWARD
Producer and political activist, Nicole Avant, will receive the Beacon Award for producing, "The Six Triple Eight," about the first all-black female battalion to serve overseas during World War II, and "The Black Godfather," a documentary about the legacy of her dad, Clarence Avant--a legendary music executive, entrepreneur, and filmmaker.

MALCOLM WASHINGTON – EMERGING DIRECTOR AWARD
Malcolm Washington is being honored with The Emerging Director Award for his debut feature film, "The Piano Lesson." This adaptation of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play explores the complex legacies and generational conflicts that shape American families.
RAY FISHER – BREAKOUT PERFORMANCE AWARD
Actor Ray Fisher will be honored with the Breakout Performance Award for his portrayal of Lymon in "The Piano Lesson." Fisher’s growing resume as an actor includes his role as Cyborg in the DC Extended Universe.
RaMELL ROSS – SPOTLIGHT AWARD
Filmmaker RaMell Ross will receive the Spotlight Award for his visionary work as the director and co-screenwriter on "Nickel Boys."

LYNN WHITFIELD – LEGACY AWARD
Lynn Whitfield’s legacy as an actress is built on iconic performances that span genres and generations. From "Josephine Baker" to "Eve’s Bayou," and now, "Albany Road," Whitfield has solidified her place as one of the most respected actresses of her generation.

BRANDON WILSON & ETHAN HERISSE – GEN NEXT AWARD
With their roles in "Nickel Boys," Brandon Wilson and Ethan Herisse demonstrate exceptional promise and creativity in their craft.

KAREN & STANLEY KRAMER SOCIAL JUSTICE AWARD – “NICKEL BOYS”
The feature film "Nickel Boys" will receive the Karen & Stanley Kramer Social Justice Award for spotlighting the abuse heaped upon generations of boys at the Dozier School for Boys. Based on Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, the film chronicles the journey of two young African American men as they navigate the brutal realities of racism at the notorious Florida reform school.

AMBER RASBERRY – HORIZON AWARD
Amazon MGM Studios executive Amber Rasberry will receive the Horizon Award for her outstanding contributions to elevating Black stories in film. Throughout her career, Amber has been instrumental in championing projects that center on Black narratives.

These two events, the AAFCA Awards and the Special Achievement Awards Luncheon, celebrate the transformative power of art and recognize visionary artists and organizations that boldly redefine the entertainment landscape.They provide a grand platform to pay tribute to the remarkable careers and contributions of trailblazers within the Diaspora, whose innovative spirits, creativity and perseverance continue to elevate the cultural narrative.

For more information on the 16th Annual AAFCA Awards and the Special Achievement Awards, visit aafca.com

SUPER/MAN: THE CHRISTOPHER REEVE STORY- Warner Bros.

Directors: Ian Bonhôte, Peter Ettedgui
Writer: Peter Ettedgui
Co-writers: Ian Bonhôte, Otto Burnham
Cast: Christopher Reeve, Johnny Carson, Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, Glenn Close, Jeff Daniels, Richard Donner, Brooke Ellison, Gae Exton, Alexandra Reeve Givens, Whoopi Goldberg, Laurie Hawkins, John Houseman, Barbara Johnson
Run time: 1 hour 44 minutes
Rating: PG-13

Directors Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui’s documentary SUPERMAN: THE CHRISTOPHER REEVES STORY tells the story of actor Christopher Reeves, America’s very own Superman, his tragic horse accident that left him paralyzed and his commitment for the remainder of his life to helping people with disabilities. People featured in the documentary include , Johnny Carson, Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, Glenn Close, Jeff Daniels, Richard Donner, Brooke Ellison, Gae Exton, Alexandra Reeve Givens, Whoopi Goldberg, Laurie Hawkins, John Houseman, Barbara Johnson and more

Producer: Ian Bonhôte
Executive producer: Harnish Fergusson
Producers: Robert Ford, Lizzie Gillett
Music: Ilan Eshkeri
Cinematographer: Bryan Twz Brousseau
Editor: Otto Burnham

Director Naoko Yamada’s ‘THE COLOR WITHIN’

Director and creator: Naoko Yamada
Writer(s): Reiko Yoshida
Language: Japanese
Subtitle: English-United States
Run time: 1 hour 41 minutes

Totsuko is a high school student with the ability to see the 'colors' of others. Colors of bliss, excitement, and serenity, plus a color she treasures as her favorite. Kimi, a classmate at her school, gives off the most beautiful color of all. Although she doesn’t play an instrument, Totsuko forms a band with Kimi and Rui, a quiet music enthusiast they meet at a used bookstore in a far corner of town. As they practice at an old church on a remote island, music brings them together, forming friendships and stirring affections. Will they discover their true 'colors'?

Studios: STORY inc. and Science SARU
Producers: Eunyoung Choi, Yoshihiro Furusawa, Genki Kawamura, Wakana Okamura, Kohei Sakita
Music: Kensuke Ushio

London Premiere of FERGUSON RISES on November 17th

‘UNSTOPPABLE’ Review: When Your Preparation is Met with Opportunities

Release: January 16, 2025

Director: William Goldenberg
Screenplay: Eric Champnella, Alex Harris, John Hindman
Based on Unstoppable: From Underdog to Undefeated: How I Became a Champion by Anthony Robles, Austin Murphy
Starring: Jharrel Jerome, Jennifer Lopez, Bobby Cannavale, Michael Peña, Don Cheadle
Genre: Biographical sports drama film
Rating: PG--13
Run time: 2 hours 3 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English

When Your Preparation is Met with Opportunities

William Goldenberg’s directorial debut UNSTOPPABLE is an inspirational and uplifting film that takes you on Anthony Robles’ journey (Jharrel Jerome), who was born with one leg and became a state high school and Arizona State wrestling champion, along with his mother, Judy Robles (Jennifer Lopez) who stood by his side as his biggest cheerleader, his step-father Rich Robles (Bobby Cannavale), and his high school coach Bobby Williams (Michael Peña) and Sean Charles (Don Cheadle) his college coach in his life.

UNSTOPPABLE is a good film that the entire family can enjoy

Anthony’s dedication and commitment to being prepared and becoming a state the wrestler really stood out when he went days ahead, of the coach and wrestling team, to the mountain trail to prepare and practice building up his endurance and strength.

Cinematographer Salvatore Totino’s placement of the camera directly in Anthony’s face enabling you to look closely into his eye, make you feel as though you are on the mat with him.

The screenplay by Eric Champnella, Alex Harris, John Hindman provides dialogue that is credible and compelling that keeps your interest throughout the film especially with his stepfather Rich as Anthony must contend with his mistreatment.

Editor Brett M. Reed’s scenes flow effortlessly between Anthony and his families from his childhood and collegiate life.

UNSTOPPABLE was filmed on location in his home state and town of Mesa, Arizona.

The musical score worked well the scenes adding to the suspense, drama and joys of Anthony’s life.

UNSTOPPLABLE is a must-see film that will motivate you to be prepared so that when an opportunity to pursue your life goal is before you, you are ready and up to the task.

Run time: 2 hours 3 minutes
Production Companies: Artists Equity, Nuyorican Productions
Distributer: Amazon MGM Studios
Producers: Anthony Robles, Gary Lewis, David Crockett, Andy Fraser, Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas
Cinematographer: Salvatore Totino
Editor: Brett M. Reed
Music: Alexandre Desplat

‘UNSTOPPABLE’ Starring Jharrel Jerome and Jennifer Lopez

Director: William Goldenberg
Screenplay: Eric Champnella, Alex Harris, John Hindman
Based on Unstoppable: From Underdog to Undefeated: How I Became a Champion by Anthony Robles, Austin Murphy
Starring: Jharrel Jerome, Jennifer Lopez, Bobby Cannavale, Michael Peña, Don Cheadle
Genre: Biographical sports drama film
Run time: 2 hours 3 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English

‘UNSTOPPABLE’ tells the story of Arizona State University wrestler Anthony Robles and his amazing accomplishment, winning a national championship, in 2011, while competing with only one leg.

Production Companies: Artists Equity, Nuyorican Productions
Distributer: Amazon MGM Studios
Producers: Anthony Robles, Gary Lewis, David Crockett, Andy Fraser, Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas
Cinematographer: Salvatore Totino
Editor: Brett M. Reed
Music: Alexandre Desplat

“Who in the Hell is Regina Jones” Premieres at the Michaeux Film Festival on Friday, October 25th at The Culver Theater

Co-directors: Soraya Sélène, Billy Miossi
Starring: Matt Jones, Regina Jones
Run time; 1 hour 39 minutes

“Who in the Hell is Regina Jones?” tells the story of Regina and her journey in co-founding Soul Newspaper in the City of Angels, Los Angeles, CA and her impact on the world of publishing.

Executive Producer; Sam Pollard
Editor Nancy Novak
Co-editor; Alisa Selman
Production Co.: Weigel V
Music; Gil Taimi

‘Billy Preston: That’s The Way God Planned It’ 2024 Film

Director: Paris Barclay
Writers: Paris Barclay, Cheo Hodari Coker
Starring: Billy Porter, Ringo Starr, Eric Clapton, Suzanne De Passe, and more
Run time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Genre: Documentary

The life story of Billie Preston, a gifted artist who at the age of 15-year-old performed with Little Richard and his monumental contributions to the world of music.

Music: Robert Glasper, Derrick Hodge
Cinematographer: Carmen Delaney, Ernesto Lomeli
Editor Scott D. Hanson

Documentary ‘I Am: Celine Dion’

Director: Irene Taylor
Producers: Stacy Lorts, Tom Mackay, Julie Begey Seureau, Irene Taylor
Starring: Celine Dion, René-Charles Angélil, Nelson Angélil, Eddy Angélil
Run time: 1 hour 43 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English

Directed by Academy Award nominee Irene Taylor, I AM: CELINE DION is a behind-the-scenes look at superstar Celine Dion as she deals with a life-altering illness. Her revelations and anguish become a testament to the power of music and deep resilience of the human spirit.

Producers: Stacy Lorts, Tom Mackay, Julie Begey Seureau, Irene Taylor
Starring: Celine Dion, René-Charles Angélil, Nelson Angélil, Eddy Angélil
Cinematographer: Nick Midwig
Editor: Richard Comeau. Christian Jensen
Music: Redi Hasa
Production Companies: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Sony Music Entertainment, Les Productions Feeling, Vermilion Films
Distributor: Amazon Studios
Run Time: 1 hour 43 minutes
Country United States
Language English