LOS ANGELES, (April 24, 2024) – The 28th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) today announced its lineup of the narrative and documentary features. This year’s festival, which takes place live in Miami Beach June 12-16, followed by an online segment June 17-24 on ABFF PLAY (https://abffplay.com/), spotlights incredible emerging creatives in the filmmaking space.

ABFF has become a cornerstone for diversity in Hollywood showcasing Black creativity and stories through a one of a kind platform for mainstream audiences and beyond. The 2024 festival will encompass diverse narrative and documentary filmmakers from the USA, Nigeria, France and Canada. In addition, the narrative features lineup includes an array of programming across genres – action, psychological thriller, romance, biography, drama, comedy, and coming-of-age stories that also depict culturally relevant themes such as mental health, trafficking, homelessness, gang violence, gentrification and LGBT advocacy.

Winners of the films in competition will be announced during the “Best of ABFF Awards” hosted by three-time Emmy award nominee Dondré Whitfield on June 15.

The 2024 Narrative lineup showcases: Albany Road directed and written by Christine Swanson starring Renée Elise Goldsberry, Lynn Whitfield, J. Alphonse Nicholson; The Lost Holliday directed by, co-written and starring Jussie Smollett alongside lead actress Vivica A. Fox, produced by Mona Scott-Young; The Waterboyz, directed by Coke Daniels and produced by Ben Crump and starring Akil McDowell, Alani “La La” Anthony, and Quavo; Jason Mitchell leads in Black Heat, written and directed by Wes Miller, co-starring Tabitha “Dreamdoll” Robinson and NLE Choppa.

In addition, this year’s Documentary lineup showcases: King of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones directed by European filmmaker Harriet Marin Jones, produced by the renowned Quincy Jones & Debbie Allen; Luther: Never Too Much directed by Dawn Porter, produced by Jamie Foxx; sports profile documentary Train: The Dick “Night Train” Lane Story directed by Eric “Ptah” Herbert.

The full feature and documentary lineup for the 2024 American Black Film Festival is listed below and at https://www.abff.com/miami/press-room/press-releases/. The festival’s finalists for the prestigious HBO^® Short Film Award, will be announced at a later date.

“The 2024 American Black Film Festival is back to continue the celebration of both artists and attendees through our robust presentation of diverse filmmaking that spotlights Black culture,” said NICE CROWD President Nicole Friday. “We are excited to return to Miami and invite all to come take part in a momentous week of highlighting emerging filmmakers and bringing a wide-range of empowering stories to our community.”

NARRATIVE FEATURES (U.S. & International)
A competitive section for U.S. and international feature-length films directed by and/or both written and produced by persons of African descent. Films in this category are eligible to be nominated to compete for the following Jury Awards – Best Actor (presented by Ally Financial, $2500 cash prize), Best Director (presented by Cadillac, $5000 cash prize), and Best Narrative Feature (presented by Walmart, $2500 cash prize). The following films represent the 2024 official selections in the Narrative Features category:

Albany Road
On her way to the most important meeting of her career, severe weather forces a New York executive to share a rental car with her former nemesis, her ex-fiancé’s mother, only to discover that the mother is hiding a major secret.
USA | 135 min
Director: Christine Swanson
Writer: Christine Swanson
Producer: Michael Swanson
Cast: Renée Elise Goldsberry, Lynn Whitfield, J. Alphonse Nicholson, Lisa Arrindell, Gary Dourdan, Joe Holt, Rachel Nicks

Black Heat *World Premiere
One night, two parents, out of options, infiltrate a top-level dealer and pimp’s apartment complex to rescue their teenage daughter.
USA | 93 min
Director: Wes Miller
Writer: Wes Miller
Producer: Andrew van den Houte, Wes Miller
Cast: Jason Mitchell, Tabatha “DreamDoll” Robinson, NLE Choppa

Body of Water *USA Premiere
Sometimes you have to take justice into your own hands.
USA | 103 min
Director: Terrisha Kearse
Writer: Steve Fauquier, David Wendell Boykins, Terrisha Kearse, Mico Ramos
Producer: Tara Carbajal, Terrisha Kearse, Keita Don Azu, Seven Bailey, Amber Bolden
Cast: David Wendell Boykins, Dallas Schaefer, Kiya Roberts, Derek S. Orr, Kimberly Bailey

Drip Like Coffee *World Premiere
An unexpected romance evolves between two Brooklyn baristas, Kali, an aspiring coffee professional, and Mel, a budding photographer.
USA | 86 min
Director: Anaiis Cisco
Writer: Anaiis Cisco
Producer: Anaiis Cisco, Ryan Rivard, Mary Pena, Kathryn Boyd-Batstone
Cast: Iman Artwell Freeman, Kashanie Lagrotta Butler, Ralphy Lopez

Freedom Hair
Based on the inspiring, true story of Melony Armstrong, a mother who works at a shelter for battered women decides to start a hair braiding business and must overcome obstacles imposed by a powerful cartel and the state of Mississippi.
USA | 99 min
Director: Dianne Houston
Writer: Dianne Houston
Producer: Stacey Parks, Lana Link, Rob Pfaltzgraff
Cast: Simona Brown, Jeremie Harris, Sophia Bush, and Erica Taze

He Looked Like A Postcard *World Premiere
A poet balancing single motherhood returns to her hometown to rebuild her life and finds love and so much more after receiving a magical postcard under her door.
USA | 97 min
Director: Qasim Basir
Writer: jessica Care moore
Producer: jessica Care moore, Lasana Hotep, Gingi Rochelle
Cast: jessica Care moore, Tobias Truvillion, Jaden Anthony Moore, Nicci Gilbert, Donnell Rawlings, Omar Regan

Peripheral *World Premiere
A woman’s husband goes missing soon after moving into their new home, but strange and paranormal events start to occur upon his return.
USA | 88 min
Director: Sulayman Tahir
Writer: Sulayman Tahir, Jordan Tortorello
Producer: Jordan Tortorello, Dallas Hart, Chris Tortorello
Cast: Andria B. Langston, Patrick Walker, Patricia Mizen, D’Kia Anderson, Sami Tortorello

Swoon *World Premiere
A woman wakes tied to a bed, and her captor tries to manipulate her into believing they are a couple.
USA | 83 min
Director: Byron Manuel
Writer: Byron Manuel
Producer: Byron Manuel, Ryan Rojas, JP Ouellette, Cash Oliver, Franco Tavera, George Wriighster, Cameron Duncan, Lily Terrazas, Raul Terrazas, Kassandra Lee Diaz, Rich Morrow.
Cast: Kassandra Lee Diaz, DeRon Cash, Rich Morrow, Efrangeliz Medina, Dean Wil, Herbert Morales, Del Harrison.

The Final Play *USA Premiere
A retired pro basketball player seeks true love and a new beginning, but past traumas threaten his happiness.
USA | 108 min
Director: Tailiah Breon
Writer: Jeremy Pargo, Barshea Lowery
Producer: Jeremy Pargo, Valentina Barton, Tailiah Breon, Ernestine Morrison Johnson
Cast: Jeremy Pargo, Hazel Renee, Jerod Haynes, Navv Greene, Vanessa D. Fant, Brea Joy

The Lost Holliday *World Premiere
After losing her estranged son, Cassandra must deal with grief and guilt while getting to know her son’s daughter and husband, who she knew nothing about.
USA | 96 min
Director: Jussie Smollett
Writer: Jerrell Chesney & Jussie Smollett
Producer: Jussie Smollett, Mona Scott-Young, Tressa Smallwood, Tom Wilson, Joe “Jody” Williams, Janet Smollett, Eddie Mac, Stephanie Gayle, Jerrell Chesney, Anthony Smallwood, Sheila Legette and Vivica A. Fox
Cast: Vivica A. Fox, Jussie Smollett, Jabari Redd, Marquise Vilsón, Brittany S. Hall, Miriam A. Hyman, Londyn Carter, Memphis Cade, Gina Belafonte, Leslie D. Baker

The Odds *World Premiere
A young man stumbles into good fortune but it attracts the wrong attention.
NIGERIA | 93 min
Director: Kewa Oni
Writer: Kewa Oni
Producer: Seun Opabisi, Sean McNichol, Phiona Okunmu, Tunji Jamiu Shoyode
Cast: Molawa Davies, Osita Iheme, Gbemi Akinlade, Kelechi Udegbe

The Waterboyz *World Premiere
In the streets of ATL, two young men cross paths, one trying to make a legit living, the other trying to create mayhem and rule the streets.
USA | 89 min
Director: Coke Daniels
Writer: Coke Daniels
Producer: Coke Daniels, Errol Sadler, Dolapo Erinkitola, Cameron S Mitchell, Brian Sher, Coach K, Pee Thomas, Ben Crump, Tirrell D Whitley.
Cast: Akil McDowell, Alani “La La” Anthony, Quavo Omar Dorsey, Rockmond Dunbar

Young King *World Premiere
As Diondre Howell re-adjusts to civilian life and struggles to cope with the scars of the Iraq war, he increasingly becomes a threat to those he cares about the most – his family.
USA | 94 min
Director: Bryant T. Griffin
Writer: Bryant T. Griffin
Producer: Selena Leoni
Cast: Vince Washington, Tarra Riggs, Kirby Griffin, Vaughn Wilkinson, James Arthur Sims

DOCUMENTARY FEATURES
A competitive section for nonfiction feature films directed by persons of African descent or centered on the culture and experiences of persons of African descent. Films in this category are eligible to be nominated to compete for the Jury Award for Best Documentary ($2500 cash prize). The following films represent the 2024 official selections in the Documentary Features category:

A Time To Yell: More Than A Statue *World Premiere
Former Charlottesville city council member Dr. Wes Bellamy’s impassioned activism reveals the tumultuous journey for racial justice sparked by the controversial removal of Confederate statues and leading to one of modern America’s most divisive conflicts.
USA | 63 min
Director: Eric W. Newman & Daniel B. Levin
Producer: Eric W. Newman, Daniel B. Levin & Daryl Davis
Cast: Dr. Wes Bellamy, Kristin Szakos, Eze Amos, Will Jones, Courtney Commander

Family Tree
In the American South, Black forest landowners fight to maintain their family legacy and create sustainable forests for generations to come.
USA | 97 min
Director: Jennifer MacArthur
Producer: Rupert Maconick
Cast: the Jefferies Family, the Williams Family, Sam Cook, Mavis Gragg, Alton Perry

It Takes A Village: An East Van Story *USA Premiere
The journey of two Ugandan brothers unfolds in East Vancouver highlighting the impact of community in empowering at-risk youth to triumph over adversity.
CANADA | 79 min
Director: Christopher Cho
Producer: Jonathan Mubanda, Christopher Cho, Stephanie Watt-Mubanda, David Mubanda, Wolfgang Klassen
Cast: Jonathan Mubanda, David Mubanda, Theresa Campbell

King Of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones
A European filmmaker searches for the truth about her grandfather, the most famous Policy Kings of all times, who rose to the heights of financial and political prominence in Chicago in the ‘30s, despite discrimination.
FRANCE | 98 min
Director: Harriet Marin Jones
Producer: Harriet Marin Jones
Executive Producers: Quincy Jones, Debbie Allen
Cast: Quincy Jones, Nathan Thompson, Harriet Jones, Timuel Black

Luther: Never Too Much
Dawn Porter offers an in-depth look into the life and career of Luther Vandross as he overcomes personal and professional challenges to become one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
USA | 100 min
Director: Dawn Porter
Producer: Trish D Chetty, Ged Doherty, Jamie Foxx, Datari Turner, Leah Smith
Executive Producers:
Cast: Fonzi Thornton, Robin Clark, Carlos Alomar, Danyel Smith, Jon Platt, Ava Cherry, Seveda Williams, Nile Rodgers, Valerie Simpson, Marcus Miller, Nat Adderly Jr., Jamie Foxx, Lisa Fischer, Kevin Owens, Richard Marx, Clive Davis, Mariah Carey, Dionne Warwick, Max Szadek

Train: The Dick “Night Train” Lane Story *World Premiere
Trace the remarkable rise of Dick Night Train Lane, from the concrete fields of the 1920s to Madden Football stardom, as he transforms from being discarded in a trash can to earning a place in the Football Hall of Fame.
USA | 133 min
Director: Eric “Ptah” Herbert
Producer: Carlos Mendez, Jennifer Karsting, Richard Lane Jr, Richard Walker, Eric “Ptah” Herbert, Mack Tompkins, Andre Mitchell, Devin Mitchell
Executive Producers:
Cast: Eric Dickerson, Ray Lewis, Warren Moon, Dick Lebeau, Rod Woodson, Dick Butkus, Leigh Steinberg, Ct Fletcher, Guy Torry, Fred “The Hammer” Williamson, Henry Leverette

Who In The Hell Is Regina Jones? *World Premiere
Before Rolling Stone, there was Soul Newspaper. Behind Soul, there was Regina Jones. Against all odds, Regina blazed her own path, and at 80 has found herself again.
USA | 99 min
Director: Soraya Selene, Billy Miossi
Producer: Alissa Shapiro
Executive Producers:
Cast: Regina Jones, Matt Jones

ABFF sponsors and partners to date are Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO^® (Founding), Cadillac, Comcast NBCUniversal, Walmart, Ally (Presenting), City of Miami Beach, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), Sony Pictures Entertainment, TV One Networks, American Airlines, IMDbPro (Official), Amazon MGM Studios, New World Symphony, Motion Picture Association (MPA), (Supporting), A&E Network, Getty Images, NYFA, GLAAD (Industry), Variety, LA Times (Media).

For 2024 Media Credentials please apply HERE.

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About NICE CROWD
NICE CROWD, formerly ABFF Ventures, is a Los Angeles-based live events company that develops and produces properties in the arts, entertainment, lifestyle and wellness industries that showcase BIPOC culture and talent. The Company’s tentpole event is the American Black Film Festival, founded in 1997.

To learn more about NICE CROWD events, visit www.nicecrowd.com.

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Download images of the 28th annual American Black Film Festival Official Selections HERE.

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Media Contact:
[email protected]

Emmy-nominated Actor/Author Dondré Whitfield Returned to Host the Inspiring Celebration of Winners

Miami Beach, FL, (June 17, 2023) – The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) today announced winners of the Best of the ABFF Awards, the premiere award ceremony honoring storytelling from the next generation of Black filmmakers.

Hosted by three-time Emmy-nominated actor and author Dondré Whitfield, the festival presented winners in the official film selection categories – narrative and documentary features, series and the 26th HBO Short Film Award Showcase as well as the festival’s newest talent pipeline program, the ABFF Podcast Competition. The 27th annual festival continues live in Miami through Sunday, June 18 followed by a virtual segment streaming on ABFF Play from June 19-25.

The 2023 Jury Award winners are:

• Best Narrative Feature – “Cinnamon”
  Written and Directed by Bryian Keith Montgomery Jr.
  • Prize: $2,500, presented by Andscape
• Best Director (TIE) – Bryian Keith Montgomery Jr. | “Cinnamon”
  and Ogo Okpue | “A Song from the Dark”
  • Prize: Both winners receive $2,500, presented by Cadillac
• HBO Short Film Award Showcase | “Jelly”
  Directed by Anndi Jinelle Liggett
  • Prize: $10,000 for winner, $5,000 each for four finalists, presented by Warner Bros. Discovery/HBO
• Best Documentary Feature – “Locked Out”
  Directed by Kate Davis and Luchina Fisher
  • Prize: $2,500
• Best Series (Television or Web) – “I Was a Soul Train Dancer”
  Written, Directed, and Produced by Timiza Sanyika
  • Prize: $2,500, presented by Comcast NBC Universal | Black Experience on XFINITY
• Best Actor – Actress Vanessa Vanderpuye | “A Song from the Dark”
  • Prize: $2,500, presented by Ally

The Talent Pipeline Program winners are:

ABFF Podcast Competition

• Archie Jay: “Archie: The Podcast”
• Ken Lewis: “Gangsta Island”
• Sophia Stephens: “The Maiden Myth”

ABFF sponsors include Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO^® (Founding); Andscape, Ally, Comcast NBCUniversal, Walmart, Cadillac (Presenting); City of Miami Beach, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), UPS, TV One Networks, Netflix, Meta, Prime Video (Major); American Airlines, IMDb, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Variety, YouTube Black Voices, Prudential Financial, ALLBLK, Bounce TV, OWN, Warner Bros. Television (Official); A&E Network, BET Media Group, Motion Picture Association (MPA), Confluential Films, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority, Pfizer, Procter & Gamble, Fulton Films GA, ESPN Films, Lionsgate (Supporting).

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About ABFF
The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is dedicated to recognizing Black talent and showcasing quality film and television content by and about people of African descent. ABFF founder Jeff Friday conceived the festival in 1997 as a vehicle to strengthen the Black entertainment community by fostering resource sharing, education and artistic collaboration. Now in its 27th year, the festival has become a key proponent of diversity in Hollywood, providing a platform for emerging Black artists. ABFF, the company’s flagship event, is a property of Nice Crowd, formerly ABFF Ventures LLC, a leading entertainment company in the event tourism arena. To learn more about Nice Crowd events, visit www.nicecrowd.com.

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Media Contacts:

Chelsye J. Burrows, ABFF Ventures LLC | [email protected]

The Lede Company | [email protected]

Featuring Storytelling from Across the Globe by the Next Generation of Independent Black Filmmakers

LOS ANGELES, (May 22, 2023) – The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) announced today the selection of finalists who will compete in its Annual HBO^® Short Film Award Showcase and Series and Voices of Culture lineup. The 27th annual ABFF will take place in Miami Beach June 14-18 and will be available to a global audience June 19-25 on ABFF PLAY (https://abffplay.com/).

“We have curated a diverse lineup of authentic stories created by talented artists that give visibility to Black creatives in the industry,” said Nicole Friday, president, COO ABFF Ventures and Festival Producer. “Over 25 years ago, we launched the HBO Short Film Award, spotlighting groundbreaking filmmakers and elevating Black content for mainstream audiences to experience. Many dynamic storytellers have been a part of the ABFF community, and we are proud to continue our legacy of showcasing gifted creators.”

Winners of the 2023 independent film awards and talent contest winners will be presented during the Best of the ABFF Awards hosted by Emmy-nominated actor/author Dondré Whitfield, Saturday, June 17, in the Miami Beach Convention Center. Sirius XM’s Bevy Smith (Bevelations) will host the HBO Showcase. ABFF is proud to be a qualifying festival for the Academy Awards^® Short Film Awards.

The annual five-day festival, held in locations in and around Miami Beach and the City of Miami, will showcase a selection of exclusive programs from networks and streamers including spotlight screenings, conversations and panels with award-winning directors, producers and top-line talent. For a complete schedule of programming, full list official film selections and to purchase passes for the 2023 American Black Film Festival, visit www.abff.com. Follow @ABFF on Twitter, @AmericanBlackFilmFestival on Instagram and Facebook.

The HBO Short Film Award finalists, Web Series and Voices of Culture lineup is listed below.

HBO Short Film Award Showcase
Now in its 26th year, the HBO Short Film Award, sponsored by HBO and Warner Bros. Discovery, is regarded as one of the most prestigious short film showcases in the world. Five filmmakers are selected as finalists, one grand prize winner will be presented with the HBO Short Film Award and a cash prize of $10,000. The following films represent the finalists for the 2023 HBO Short Film Award.

Radio Silence
As a successful radio DJ, Tracey made a career out of her love for music and its connection to the human experience. But when confronted with her mother’s illness, she is forced to reevaluate her own life. Divided between the hauntingly beautiful memories of her past, fears of the future and the painful realities of her present, she gives herself the ultimate challenge – a broadcast of reconciliation.
USA | 2023 | 20 minutes
Written by: Nakia Secrest
Directed by: Ric Serena

Jelly
Jelly is a young Black girl in Bed-stuy with a peculiar fascination with death. While trying to solve the mysterious case of a missing neighbor, she comes to terms with a more personal disappearance. Narrated by André Holland.
USA | 2023 | 10 minutes
Written and Directed by: Anndi Jinelle Liggett

Fathead
When one of the last free children of Junkyard Paradise has her brother stolen away from her, no ragamuffin army or vicious beasts will stop her from getting him back.
USA | 2023 | 20 minutes
Written and Directed by: c. Craig Patterson

Recovery Chain
After being evicted by his mother, a rebellious teen must adapt to life with his distant father and his father’s new family.
USA | 2022 | 17 minutes
Written and Directed by: Quamé A. Hamlin

Jerome
Basketball connects Jerome to his long-absent father, though not in the ways he wishes. As he wrestles with his own concept of family, he must confront his father’s legacy on and off the court.
USA | 2023 | 14 minutes
Written and Directed by: Gianfranco Fernández-Ruiz

Series
A competitive section for short-form episodic television directed by and/or both written and produced by persons of African descent. Each series in this section will compete for the Jury Award for Best Series (Television or Web) (presented by Comcast NBCUniversal, $2,500 cash prize). The following are the 2023 official selections in the Series category:

Being Alex *World Premiere
An eclectic high school sophomore embarks on an entertaining journey of self-discovery amidst a spiraling pandemic and life-changing social revolution.
USA | 11 min
Written and Directed by: Christopher J. Love
Producer: LaShanda Simmons-Calhoun
Cast: Koby Calhoun, Roman Vargas, Paula Velasquez

Bloom Room *U.S. Festival Premiere
In the midst of a global pandemic, a group of twenty-somethings explores the complexities of Black mental health and the bonds of chosen family in an online plant care community.
Canada | 8 min
Directors: Tristen Sutherland, Christian Anderson, Yasmijin Nicolle, Sochima Nwakaeze, Ajhanis Charley
Writers: Tristen Sutherland, Christian Anderson, Yasmijin Nicolle, Sochima Nwakaeze, Ajhanis Charley, Maryan Haye, Anthony Meeks, Yonas Ogubu
Producers: Alexx Bryant, Caleb Phillips, Anthony Jhade, Kelvin Omori, Rochelle Chambers, Funsho Elegbeleye
Executive Producers: Alison Duke, Ngardy Conteh George
Cast: Lane Webber, Brittany Miller, Blane Soloman, Jordan Henry

Buzz Kill *World Premiere
A charismatic and chubby Black queer millennial’s life is shaken up when romance, career and family issues collide.
USA | 15 min
Director: Jessie B. Evans
Writers: Jessie B. Evans, Terrance ‘Mo County’ Williams
Producers: Jessie B. Evans, Credere Joseph, Terrance ‘Mo County’ Williams
Cast: Terrance ‘Mo County’ Williams, Marcel J. Sawyer, Danielle Carter, Stewart Jewett, Christian Omari, Jessie B. Evans

Criblore: A Horror Anthology *World Premiere
An anthology series that follows a group of eccentric characters and their encounters with witches, werewolves, mermaids, trolls, and more.
USA | 14 min
Written and Directed by: Lucien Christian Adderley, Richard “Byrd” Wilson
Executive Producer: Moon Lee Ferguson (Creator of Series)
Cast: Terayle Hill, Brittany S. Hall

Dolla Van
Two Trinidadian siblings, Jordana and Khalid, face challenges starting their own Flatbush Avenue dollar van service.
USA | 9 min
Director: Gabriel A. Tolliver
Writers: Gabriel A. Tolliver, Vinay Chowdry
Producers: Vinay Chowdry, Kecia Élan Cole, Kuye Youngblood
Cast: Jordana Persad, Khalid Hamid, Arthur Gregory Pugh, Walter T. Mudu

I Was a Soul Train Dancer
“I Was a Soul Train Dancer” is a mini-docs series that profiles some of the most recognizable and memorable Soul Train dancers from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s.
USA | 11 min
Written and Directed by: Timiza Sanyika
Producer: Timiza Sanyika
Cast: Aretha Jackson, Larry “Bobcat” Jefferies

I’ll Make You Better: Thomas Jules, Knicks Fan Counselor *U.S. Festival Premiere
An aspiring self-help guru tries to strengthen his reputation while not alienating his loyal clientele of rabid Knicks fans.
USA | 2 min
Director: Andrew Edghill
Writers: Andrew Edghill, Lee O. Valentin
Producer: Andrew Edghill
Cast: Lee O. Valentin

Love Trial *U.S. Festival Premiere
Two young Atlanta professionals hit it off fast, but find out rather quickly that finding love, and maintaining it — are two totally different journeys.
USA | 15 min
Written and Directed by: Brandon Henderson
Producers: Brandon Henderson, Ruben Ahortor
Cast: Kiah Alexandria, Brandon Henderson, Keon Mitchell, Christen Sharice, Tuki Daily, Phylicia Morgan

Shadowboxing – Round 1 *World Premiere
Andre desires to be the perfect boyfriend for the love of his life, Desi, but he struggles with a secret…Sex Addiction.
USA | 15 min
Director: Mo McRae
Writer: Mustafa Speaks
Producers: Mustafa Speaks, Michelle Mitchenor, Mo McRae, Lex Scott Davis, Anna Notarides
Cast: Mustafa Speaks, Adriyan Rae, Diego Parada, Jerrell Pippens, Lex Scott Davis, Shakira Barrera

The Federation *World Premiere
Flex Incredible navigates the explosive world of professional wrestling in the 1990s, where the line between fantasy and reality is subjective in more ways than one.
USA | 15 min
Written and Directed by: Kola Olasiji
Producers: Kola Olasiji, Molly Neville Olasiji
Cast: Kola Olasiji, Miles Burris, Byron Hopkins

The Lesbian Homie
A man tries to forget his recent past failed toxic situationship by pursuing another woman who he finds to have a lot of the same traits and attitude as the previous woman…..Deja Vu maybe?
USA | 10 min
Director: Jahdai Pickett
Writers: Jahdai Pickett, J. Antonio Figueroa
Producer: Dirty Chucks Entertainment
Cast: Jahdai Pickett, Stephanie Nelson, Kraig Smith, G. Wayne, Marche’ Howell, Lisa Yaro, Marlin Minks, Ciera Angelia

The Table *World Premiere
The journey of London and Ed’s relationship is told over seven years primarily at their dining room table.
USA | 12 min
Directors: Caralene Robinson, Jamal Hodge, Crystal Whaley
Writers: Caralene Robinson, Nina Simone Moore
Producers: Caralene Robinson, Deborah Riley Draper, Crystal Whaley, DeDe Brown, Jamal Hodge
Cast: Devin Nelson, Brandon J. Shaw, Bevy Smith, Yvette Ganier

Third Wheel Material
When a perpetual third wheel struggles to find love and a sense of belonging, he decides to ask his two best friends, a couple, for help.
USA | 11 min
Director: Lyandre Pierre
Writer: Lyandre Pierre
Producers: Julian Park, Tezeta Solomon, Rickey Larke, Lyandre Pierre
Cast: Jerry Madison Jr., Charlotte Williams Roberts, Christian Robinson

Wallflower *World Premiere
When a shy teenage girl is gifted a family heirloom, it sparks the courage to live life on her own terms; but as she evolves and becomes unrecognizable to the people closest to her, she must decide who she wants to be.
Canada | 15 min
Director: Tristan Barrocks
Writers: Safia Bartholomew, Kern Carter
Producer: Leah Rifkin
Associate Producer: Corey Kareem
Cast: Kayla Kuhnke, Courtenay Field, Shirley Jackson, Romello Griffith, Ayan Elmi, Andrew James, Grace McDonald

Voices Of Culture
A noncompetitive section of narrative short films directed by persons of African descent. The following films represent the 2023 official selections in this category:

Bizarro World *World Premiere
Six unrelated, humorous, absurd stories, shot in and around LA.
USA | 8 min
Directors: Jonathan Salmon, Abdi Ibrahim

Writers: Khari Johnson, Jonathan Salmon
Producer: Khari Johnson
Cast: James Chrosniak, Mark Mandia,Jonathan Salmon, Jak Knight, Upendo Moore, Nona P Johnson, Zack Fox, Tyree Norwood, Mekki Leeper, Khari Johnson, Felice Levair, Kate Hollowell, Matt Law

Blackifier *World Premiere
After watching an odd TV infomercial advertising a magical spray called blackifier, that when used can make anyone appear to be black to everyone else around them, Karen goes on a journey inside an alternate TV universe to see just how exciting the Black experience is.
USA | 15 min
Director: Christian Kamaal
Writer: Jalen Young
Producers: Cory Gorman, Jordan Shanks
Cast: Diane Sargent, Christopher Grossett, Chanda Wallace, TyNae Miller, Brandon James Somerville, Peace Ikediuba, Seth Carter, Michael Duisenberg

Burning Rubber *U.S. Festival Premiere
Down on his luck, Duane Ruiz is out of college and out of options and has to choose between his responsibilities or following his passion and competing in the high stakes, Burning Rubber Wallball tournament.
USA | 7 min
Director: Chris Fequiere
Writer: Dara King
Producers: Dara King, Amanda Miller
Cast: Dante Hoagland, Gorilla Nems, Alexandria Benford, Melvin Lee Douglas, Colin Ki/Kenny, Mike Smith Rivera, Oliver Fequiere

Chidera *World Premiere
A coming-of-age story of a teenage girl bound from birth to a higher calling; but as the traditional ceremony looms she struggles to choose between her destiny and the freedom she yearns.
USA | 18 min
Directors: Sope Aluko, Adaora Nwandu-Earl
Writers: Sope Aluko, Shola Dada
Producer: Sope Aluko
Cast: Sope Aluko, Courtney Williams, Dasan Frazier, Bridget John

Fifty-four Days
One girl’s grief drives her to extraordinary lengths.
UK | 18 min
Directors: Cat White, Phoebe Torrance
Writer: Cat White
Producer: Cat White
Cast: Cat White, Celia Imrie, Juliet Cowan, Delroy Brown, Josh Williams

Grown
Having recently lost his father, Rogelio (14) devises a plan to sneak into a strip club with his pals Larry and Chaz, as the night takes an unexpected turn.
USA | 18 min
Written and Directed by: Jocko Sims
Producers: Jocko Sims, Christopher Santiago, Chaz Hazlitt, Andrew Zolot
Cast: Josiah Santiago, Tristan-Lee Edwards, Giovani Cristoff, Angela Mejia-Loggia, Eliza Ramos

Love Taps *World Premiere
A young boy trying to cope with his parents separation gains a new perspective of his father after discovering his affair with another man.
USA | 14 min
Written and Directed by: Derrick Woodyard
Producers: Tara Sheffer, T. Bankolé
Executive Producer: Spike Lee
Cast: Rahim Barry, Parish Bradley, Emmanuel Kerry, Omrae Smith, Rayvon Southerland

Monochromatic *World Premiere
The inevitable moment a six-year-old girl realizes the world operates with bias when it comes to the color of her skin.
UK | 13 min
Written and Directed by: Karen Bryson
Producers: Lorraine Bhattachary, Shakyra Dowling
Cast: Stephanie Levi John, Kenedy McCallam Martin, Elisha Robin

Oba *World Premiere
In an Afro-Futurist future, the King of a prominent Nigerian village has died. The Kingmakers select an unsuspecting boy from South London to ascend him.
UK | 11min
Written and Directed by: Femi Ladi
Producer: Ray Okudzeto
Cast: Samuel Adewunmi, Funke Adeleke, Philips Nortey, Richard Olátúndé Baker

Pema
Murphy, a young Black girl of Congolese descent, suffers from depression. In opposition to a particularly religious and superficial family, Murphy has no other choice to survive than to take refuge in her bed …
France | 19 min
Written and Directed by: Victoria Neto
Producers: Anais Lonkeu, Lena Bapt
Cast: Lorena Masikini, Pauline Mbaku, Pol White, Dorea Da Rozalia, Cindy Wadja

Port Of A Prince
A young Haitian boy must decide if joining a gang is the right path for him.
USA/Haiti | 15 min
Written and Directed by: JR Aristide
Producers: Gilbert Mirambeau Jr., JR Aristide
Cast: Personna Wilensky, Guerrier Giovanni, Edmond Erthon, Rolando Etienne

Reunion *World Premiere
“Reunion” tells the story of what happens when a West African immigrant living in the Bronx discovers the child soldier who destroyed her family years ago is now a best-selling author living in NYC.
USA | 16 min
Directors: Zainab Jah, Tim Naylor
Writers: Tim Naylor, Zainab Jah
Producer: Djaka Souaré
Cast: Mayaa Boateng, Obi Abili

Somebody *World Premiere
As Jared contemplates ending his life, his plan is disrupted by a lost child seeking directions.
USA | 12 min
Director: JoJoe Earley
Writer: Ava Mone’t
Producer: Julio Mata Jr.
Cast: Kamil McFadden, Nyle Mckenzie

Speak Up Brotha!
After a brief encounter with an enigmatic woman in his car, a rideshare driver must learn to communicate in ways beyond his understanding to win her heart.
USA | 15 min
Director: Wes Andre Goodrich
Writers: Roderick Lawrence, Obbie West, James J. Johnson
Producers: Salma Qarnain, Roderick Lawrence, Dario Harris, Patrick Nichols
Executive Producers: Ron Gillyard, Will Campbell, Ike Mbanefo, Obbie West, Cameron Carr
Cast: Roderick Lawrence, T.C. Carson, Toni Lachelle Pollitt, Madeline Grey DeFreece, Alphonso Walker Jr., Justin Winley, Jaleeca Yancy

The Fairchild
The new membership desk assistant at an exclusive museum becomes a special exhibit when staff and visitors obsess over him and his hair instead of the art on the walls.
USA | 15 min
Written and Directed by: Danny Rogers
Producers: Alyssa Katalyna, Celai Ahmadzai
Cast: Danny Rogers, Eric Davis, Sierra Marcks, Lauren Killer, Ben Newton, Hunter C. Smith, Susan Priver, Frank Poynton, Maria Brodeur, Aeron Macintyre

TikTok Challenged
An elderly woman with Hollywood dreams enlists her grandson’s help to go viral on TikTok.
USA | 9 min
Written and Directed by: Ivan Rome
Producer: Yoko Kohmoto
Cast: Christine Smith, Thomas Walter Booker, Winter-Lee Holland, Kendel Rome

Welcome to Afrotree
After being fed up with life in the city, Steven and Janet move to a gated community where all the residents are Black. But, they soon realize their dreams have become a nightmare.
USA | 21 min
Written and Directed by: Chase Parker
Writer: Chase Parker
Producers: Chase Parker, Greg Rhem
Cast: Charlie Q. Smith, Wilson Christopher, Tra’Lynn Husbands, Colin Pieters

Since its inception, the highly regarded American Black Film Festival has become a cornerstone for diversity in Hollywood. It has premiered the work and supported the careers of many of today’s most successful filmmakers, actors, writers and stand-up comedians, and is recognized as a standard-bearer of excellence for Black creativity.

ABFF sponsors and partners to date are Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO^® (Founding); Andscape, Ally, Comcast NBCUniversal, Walmart, Cadillac (Presenting); City of Miami Beach, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), UPS, TV One Networks, Netflix, Meta, Prime Video (Major); American Airlines, IMDb, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Variety, YouTube Black Voices, Prudential Financial, ALLBLK, Bounce TV, OWN, Warner Bros. Television (Official); A&E Network, BET Media Group, Motion Picture Association (MPA), Confluential Films, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority, Pfizer, Procter & Gamble, Fulton Films GA, ESPN Films, Lionsgate (Supporting).

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About ABFF
The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is a property of ABFF Ventures LLC, an entertainment company specializing in the production of live events and platforms that celebrate Black culture and achievement. The ABFF, the company’s flagship event, is dedicated to recognizing Black talent and showcasing quality film and television content by and about people of African descent. ABFF founder Jeff Friday conceived the festival in 1997 as a vehicle to strengthen the Black entertainment community by fostering resource sharing, education and artistic collaboration. Now in its 27th year, the festival has become a key proponent of diversity in Hollywood, providing a platform for emerging Black artists.

---

Media Contact:

Chelsye J. Burrows
ABFF Ventures LLC
[email protected]
https://www.abff.com/miami/press-room/

World premiere of HBO Documentary Film’s Donyale Luna: Supermodel Exploring the Life and Career of the First Black Supermodel; OWN’s Time of Essence; Lionsgate’s The Blackening Directed by Tim Story; Prime Video’s I’m A Virgo Directed by Boots Riley, Starring Jharrel Jerome

Plus – A Centerpiece Screening of Netflix’s The Perfect Find, Starring Gabrielle Union and Keith Powers

LOS ANGELES, (April 27, 2023) – The 2023 American Black Film Festival (ABFF) today announced its lineup of spotlight screenings and world premieres. The festival will take place in Miami Beach June 14-18, followed by a virtual segment June 19-25 on ABFF PLAY (https://abffplay.com/), showcasing a selection of exclusive programs from networks and streamers at the forefront of diverse storytelling.

This year’s lineup includes features and series premieres plus a first look at some highly anticipated releases. World premieres include: HBO Documentary Film’s Donyale Luna: Supermodel, exploring the revolutionary life of the pioneering Black supermodel Donyale Luna. It is the second project from the initiative created jointly by Lightbox and Jeff Friday Media to foster diversity in documentary filmmaking and support emerging African American directing talent. NBC’s Found is a twisty and timely new drama that follows a PR specialist and her crisis management team as they search for missing people from marginalized groups all the while this everyday hero harbors a dark secret of her own. The series was created by Nkechi Okoro Carroll and stars Shanola Hampton and Mark-Paul Gosselaar and will premiere on NBC this fall. BET+’s world premiere of Average Joe, a darkly comedic intense one-hour drama starring Deon Cole. Warner Bros. Pictures unveils a sneak peek of a bold new take on a beloved classic, The Color Purple, produced by Oprah Winfrey, Steven Spielberg, Scott Sanders and Quincy Jones and starring Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, Colman Domingo, Corey Hawkins, H.E.R., Halle Bailey, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor and Fantasia Barrino.

The program also features Prime Video’s upcoming series I’m A Virgo created, written, and directed by Boots Riley, starring Jharrel Jerome, Allius Barnes, Brett Gray, Kara Young, Olivia Washington, Walton Goggins, Carmen Ejogo, and Mike Epps; Time of Essence, a five-part docuseries celebrating 50 years of Essence Magazine presented by the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN); A&E’s Exposing Parchman, an investigative documentary that explores the efforts to reform the Mississippi correctional system led by a team of attorneys on behalf of the inmates of Parchman Prison featuring Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter and Mario “Yo Gotti” Mims, with an encore virtual presentation; Lionsgate and MRC’s The Blackening , directed by Tim Story, starring Grace Byers, Sinqua Walls, Jay Pharoah, and Yvonne Orji, a horror comedy centering on a group of Black friends who reunite for a Juneteenth weekend getaway only to find themselves trapped in a remote cabin with a twisted killer – which poses the sardonic question: if the entire cast of a horror movie is Black, who dies first?; and Netflix’s centerpiece screening of The Perfect Find directed by ABFF alumnus, Numa Perrier, starring Gabrielle Union, Keith Powers, Aisha Hinds, DB Woodside, Janet Hubert, Alani, “La La” Anthony and Gina Torres.

Other festival highlights include TV One’s original film A Mother’s Intuition, directed by Cas Sigers-Beedles; YouTube Black Voices Film Showcase, highlighting original short films from Black Voices creators Baby Tate, Armani White, Conscious Lee and Glen’ Beleaf’ Henry; the return of Three Ways (known as Threesome), a bold, sexy drama written and directed by Jamal Dedeaux, made its feature film debut as an audience favorite among the official selections at last year’s ABFF was acquired by Andscape and premiered on Hulu; ALLBLK’s Judge Me Not, executive produced by Judge Lynn Toler, cast its leading man Javon Terrell from their 2022 Shoot Your Shot national casting call at ABFF. This year, the original series will screen during the virtual program. Other virtual programming includes OWN’s encore showing of Ready to Love 100th Episode Special and season 8 sneak peek produced by ABFF alumni Will Packer, Will Packer Media and Lighthearted Entertainment and hosted by Tommy Miles. Andscape’s The Conversations Project, a limited unscripted series of funny, fearless and far-ranging dinner parties among some of the most prominent figures in culture, hosted by Elaine Welteroth, David Lawrence and Andscape’s Senior NBA writer Marc Spears, debuting on Hulu in August.

“There’s a variety of projects from our network and streaming partners this year. We’re excited for our attendees to experience all of the great content both live and virtually. From conspiracy theories to romance and comedy horror, to learning about the first Black supermodel named Donyale Luna to grace the cover of British vogue. There really is something for everyone to see at the festival,” said festival producer and ABFF Ventures President/COO Nicole Friday. “It’s a thrill to be able to program provocative and captivating stories each year at ABFF.”

As previously announced, the American Black Film Festival opens with Juel Taylor’s directorial debut They Cloned Tyrone, a Netflix film that follows a series of events that thrusts an unlikely trio – John Boyega, Teyonah Parris and Jamie Foxx – onto a trail of nefarious government conspiracy.

Emmy Award-winning writer, producer and actor Lena Waithe is ABFF’s 2023 Festival Ambassador.

For more updates on programming follow @ABFF on Twitter and @AmericanBlackFilmFestival on Instagram and Facebook. To purchase passes for the 2023 American Black Film Festival, visit www.abff.com.

The Full Spotlight-Screenings Lineup:

A Mother’s Intuition
A young, pregnant woman grieving the sudden death of her husband is told that her baby was stillborn; but she suspects a switched-at-birth cover-up, implicating the very doctors trusted to care for her.
Cast: Denise Boutte, Matt Cedeño, Brély Evans, Hazel Renee, Tamar Braxton, Jeff Marchelletta and Karon Riley
Director: Cas Sigers-Beedles
Executive Producer: Dr. Holly Carter of Relevè Entertainment
Writer: Nicole D. Sconiers
Courtesy of: TV One Networks

Average Joe
Inspired by the life of creator Robb Cullen, “Average Joe” is a darkly comedic, intense one-hour drama set in “The Hill” district of Pittsburgh. Blue-collar plumber, Joe Washington, discovers his recently deceased father lived a secret second life and stole millions of dollars from dangerous people just before he died. Now those people think Joe knows where the money is. A bloody and violent confrontation triggers a chain of events that force Joe and his close-knit circle of family and friends out of their very average and mundane lives into a life-or-death race against time to find the truth and the millions.
Cast: Deon Cole, Tammy Townsend, Malcolm Barrett, Cynthia Kaye McWilliams, Michael Trucco, Ashley Olivia Fisher, Pasha Lychnikoff
Directors: Eric Dean Seaton, Christoph Schrewe, Marshall Tyler, David Katzenberg, Joy T. Lane
Writers: Robb Cullen, Scott Boden Hodges, Tyrone Finch, Arthur Harris, Bryce Ahart, Hawa Macalou, Paul McLalin, D.J. Ryan, Stephanie McFarlane, Jerron Horton, Kevin O’Hare
Executive Producers: Robb Cullen, McG, Mary Viola, Corey Marsh
Produced by: Wonderland Sound and Vision
Courtesy of: BET+

Donyale Luna: Supermodel
Donyale Luna: Supermodel explores the remarkable life and career of Donyale Luna, one of the first Black supermodels who graced the covers of both Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar in Europe. Today, most people have never heard of her. Born Peggy Anne Freeman in Detroit, Donyale Luna went on to revolutionize the fashion industry in the 1960s and 1970s, becoming the muse to some of the foremost photographers of the 20th century until her untimely death at the age of 33 in 1979.
Cast: Dream Cazzaniga, Beverly Johnson, Omar Boone, Kyle Hagler
Director: Nailah Jefferson
Producers: Melissa Kramer, Isoul Harris, Melanie Sharee
Executive Producers: Jonathan Chinn, Simon Chinn, Jeff Friday, Dream Cazzaniga
Courtesy of: HBO Documentary Films

Exposing Parchman
From A&E Network, Roc Nation, Good Caper Content, and Red Summer comes “Exposing Parchman,” an investigative documentary that explores the efforts to reform the Mississippi correctional system led by a team of attorneys on behalf of the inmates of Parchman Prison. The film tells the inside stories of the families, the legal team, and Roc Nation across three years of legal battles to end the deadly conditions for those incarcerated at Parchman.
Director: Rahman Ali Bugg
Writer and Producer: Jeanmarie Condon
Executive Producers: Rahman Ali Bugg (also director), Jordana Hochman, Jeanmarie Condon, Desiree Perez, Lori York, Elaine Frontain Bryant, Shelly Tatro, Brad Abramson. Alison Dammann serves as co-executive producer
Produced by: ITV America’s Good Caper Content, Roc Nation, and Red Summer TV for A&E Network. A+E Networks holds worldwide distribution rights for “Exposing Parchman.”
Courtesy of: A&E Network

Found
This twisty and timely drama follows PR specialist Gabi Mosely (Shanola Hampton) and her crisis management team as they search for missing people from marginalized groups who do not typically receive widespread media attention, as she was once one of the forgotten ones. But unbeknownst to anyone, this everyday hero is hiding a chilling secret of her own.
Cast: Shanola Hampton, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Kelli Williams, Brett Dalton, Gabrielle Walsh, Arlen Escarpeta and Karan Oberoi
Creator: Nkechi Okoro Carroll
Showrunners: Nkechi Okoro Carroll and Sonay Hoffman
Courtesy of: Comcast NBCUniversal and NBC

I’m a Virgo
From visionary filmmaker Boots Riley, “I’m a Virgo” is a fantastical coming-of-age joyride about Cootie (Jharrel Jerome), a 13-foot-tall young Black man who lives in Oakland, California.
Creator, Writer, Director: Boots Riley
Cast: Jharrel Jerome, Allius Barnes, Brett Gray, Kara Young, Olivia Washington, Walton Goggins, Carmen Ejogo, and Mike Epps
Executive Producers: Boots Riley, Tze Chun, Michael Ellenberg, Lindsey Springer, Rebecca Rivo. and Jharrel Jerome
Showrunners: Boots Riley, Tze Chun
Courtesy of: Prime Video

The Blackening
“The Blackening” centers around a group of Black friends who reunite for a Juneteenth weekend getaway only to find themselves trapped in a remote cabin with a twisted killer. Forced to play by his rules, the friends soon realize this ain’t no motherf****** game. “The Blackening” skewers genre tropes and poses the sardonic question: if the entire cast of a horror movie is Black, who dies first?
Cast: Grace Byers, Jermaine Fowler, Melvin Gregg, X Mayo, Dewayne Perkins, Antoinette Robertson, Sinqua Walls, with Jay Pharoah, and Yvonne Orji
Director: Tim Story
Screenplay and screen story by: Tracy Oliver and Dewayne Perkins
Producers: Jason Clark, Marcei A. Brown, E. Brian Dobbins, Tracy Oliver, Tim Story, and Sharla Sumpter Bridgett Lionsgate and MRC present, a Story Company / Tracy Yvonne / Artists First / CatchLight Studios
Courtesy of: LIONSGATE

The Perfect Find
After a high-profile firing, Jenna’s (Gabrielle Union) fashion career comeback hits a snag when she falls for a charming, much younger coworker (Keith Powers) who happens to be her boss’ son. As sparks fly, Jenna must decide if she’ll risk it all on a secret romance.
Cast: Gabrielle Union, Keith Powers, Aisha Hinds, DB Woodside, Janet Hubert, Alani “La La” Anthony, Gina Torres
Director: Numa Perrier from a screenplay by Leigh Davenport
Producers: Glendon Palmer, Gabrielle Union, Jeff Morrone, Codie Elaine Oliver, Tommy Oliver
Based on the book of the same title, by Tia Williams
Courtesy of: Netflix

Three Ways
A sex comedy told in “Three Ways” … Sexually awkward Stacey Johnson decides to take control of her life, cancel her ex, and conquer her fears by having a threesome with her new beau and a mysterious woman she’s never met. What could possibly go wrong? Previously titled “Threesome,” “Three Ways” was an ABFF 2022 official film selection.
Cast: Andrea Lewis, Brittany S. Hall, Jerrel O’Neal
Writer & Director: Jamal Dedeaux
Producers: Jaleel Ghafur, Rebecca Haze, Jamal Dedeaux
Courtesy of: Andscape

Time of Essence
“Time Of Essence” is a five-part documentary series highlighting how ESSENCE Magazine has informed and reflected Black culture in America over the past 50 years. Each episode covers a different decade – from the ’70s to today – and features first-hand commentary on that era’s biggest moments from the icons, trailblazers, staffers, and leaders who lived and defined them. This candid commentary is coupled with never-before-seen footage and exclusive behind-the-scenes moments from the worlds of entertainment, sports, politics, fashion, and beauty.
Executive Producers: Christian Sarabia, Nicole Elliott, Raymond Garcia, Emmet Dennis, Sidra Smith, Barkue Tubman-Zawolo, and Stephanie Hodges-Dunivan
Produced by: 51 Minds and ESSENCE Studios, LLC
Courtesy of: OWN

The YouTube Black Voices Festival Showcase
“The YouTube Black Voices Festival Showcase” features highlights of original short films from Black Voices creators. In Black Girl Day Off, Baby Tate wants Black women to take a day off and imagines how the world would crumble if they all did simultaneously. Armani White revisits his home and past mistakes in Proud of You. Conscious Lee explores the world of Black fine art through the lens of Afrofuturism. June’s Crown, a short film by Glen’ Beleaf’ Henry, follows a young girl’s journey to loving her hair.
Courtesy of: YouTube Black Voices

Spotlight Screenings That Will Appear Virtually on ABFF PLAY Are:

Exposing Parchman (see description above)
Courtesy of: A&E Network

Judge Me Not
Loosely based on the life of the famed Judge Lynn Toler, “Judge Me Not” is the story of Zelma Jay Johnson (Chyna Lane), an exceptionally bright, young Black woman who struggles with mental health issues, a ludicrous family, and volatile love life. We join her as she takes on her new role as a judge in a court full of outrageous characters both in front of and behind the bench. As her passionate relationship with her live-in lover takes them both on a ride, she finds herself caught in the crosshairs a psychological thriller that puts her life at risk.
Cast: Chyna Lane, Javon Terrell, Terrence Green, Jonathan Chase, Gena Shaw and Bonita Brisker.
Executive Producer: Judge Lynn Toler
Courtesy of: ALLBLK

Makeup x Breakup Season Two
This season on “Makeup x Breakup,” both Brooke (Nicolette Ellis) and Spencer (Kamel Goffin) work to adapt to their new environment. However, in a matter of months there’s a shift with impulsive decisions causing turmoil in their personal and professional lives. Blake (Omar Salmon) tries love again with Shannon (Olivia Grey) and the two work to build a stronger foundation of trust. Meanwhile, Laura (Karmia Berry) works to rebuild her self-confidence exploring a new relationship. In the end, will happiness work out in everyone’s favor?
Courtesy of: ALLBLK

Ready to Love
Record-breaking Hollywood producer Will Packer’s popular dating series hosted by Thomas “Nephew Tommy” Miles explores the real-life dating interactions of sexy, successful, and grown Black men and Black women in their 30s and 40s who are each looking for lasting love and an authentic relationship.
Producers: Will Packer Media and Lighthearted Entertainment produce the Ready to Love series “Ready to Love” 100th Episode Special Producers: Tara Montgomery and Brian Piotrowicz
Courtesy of: OWN

The Conversations Project
Thirty-minute episodes of prominent cultural figures, from athletes and entertainers to astronauts, Michelin-starred chefs and philosophers, engaging in candid conversations over some of the best food and wine this country has to offer. Topics tap into the vastness of the culture and the people within it through funny, fearless and far-ranging anecdotes.
Cast: Hosts Elaine Welteroth, David Lawrence and Marc Spears joined by numerous credentialed guests
Executive Producers; Raina Kelley, Tracey Baker-Simmons, AC Roe
Courtesy of: Andscape

Since its inception, the highly regarded American Black Film Festival has become a cornerstone for diversity in Hollywood. It has premiered the work and supported the careers of many of today’s most successful filmmakers, actors, writers and stand-up comedians, and is recognized as a standard-bearer of excellence for Black creativity. Continuing its legacy to empower Black artists and showcase a wide range of entertainment content, the ABFF features studio premieres, independent films, master classes, panels, talent showcases, networking and hospitality events.

ABFF sponsors and partners to date are Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO^® (Founding), Andscape, Ally, Comcast NBCUniversal, Walmart, Cadillac (Presenting), City of Miami Beach, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), UPS, TV One Networks, Netflix, Meta, Prime Video (Major), American Airlines, IMDb, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Variety, YouTube Black Voices, Prudential Financial, ALLBLK, Bounce TV, OWN, Warner Bros. Television (Official), A&E Network, BET Media Group, Motion Picture Association (MPA), Confluential Films, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority, Pfizer, Procter & Gamble, Fulton Films GA, ESPN Films, Lionsgate (Supporting).

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About ABFF
The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is a property of ABFF Ventures LLC, an entertainment company specializing in the production of live events and platforms that celebrate Black culture and achievement. The ABFF, the company’s flagship event, is dedicated to recognizing Black talent and showcasing quality film and television content by and about people of African descent. ABFF founder Jeff Friday conceived the festival in 1997 as a vehicle to strengthen the Black entertainment community by fostering resource sharing, education and artistic collaboration. Now in its 27th year, the festival has become a key proponent of diversity in Hollywood, providing a platform for emerging Black artists.

---

Media Contact:

Chelsye J. Burrows
ABFF Ventures LLC
[email protected]
https://www.abff.com/miami/press-room/

Starring Golden Globe Winner John Boyega, Teyonah Parris, and Oscar Winner Jamie Foxx

LOS ANGELES, (April 6, 2023) – The 2023 American Black Film Festival (ABFF) today announced it will open its 27th year with the upcoming Netflix satirical conspiracy caper film They Cloned Tyrone. The film stars Golden Globe winner John Boyega (Small Axe, Attack the Block, Star Wars), Teyonah Parris (The Marvels, WandaVision) and Oscar winner Jamie Foxx (Ray, Just Mercy) who also produced the film. The opening night screening will take place on June 14 in Miami Beach.

The film follows a series of eerie events that thrusts an unlikely trio (Boyega, Parris, and Foxx) onto the trail of a nefarious government conspiracy in this pulpy mystery caper. They Cloned Tyrone will have a limited theatrical release prior to launching on Netflix July 21, 2023.

They Cloned Tyrone is the directorial debut of Juel Taylor, the writer behind Creed II, and is co-written by Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier. The film is produced by Charles D. King, MACRO, Stephen “Dr.” Love, Tony Rettenmaier, Juel Taylor, Jamie Foxx, and Datari Turner. The film is executive produced by Mark R. Wright, Kim Roth, Jack Murray, Federal Films, Dana Sano, Monte Lipman and co-executive produced by James Lopez and Poppy Hanks.

“ABFF is proud to continue its legacy of elevating emerging Black content creators,” said Nicole Friday, President and COO of ABFF Ventures LLC. “Opening the festival with Juel Taylor’s directorial debut They Cloned Tyrone, represents what we have stood for within the Hollywood community for 27 years, and we are thrilled to join with our partner Netflix to bring this film to our festival audience.”

“It’s an honor and privilege to open the 27th American Black Film Festival.” said Juel Taylor, director and co-writer of They Cloned Tyrone. “We had a blast making this film alongside John, Teyonah, and Jamie, and we’re excited to share it.”

The 2023 festival will take place June 14 – 18 in Miami Beach followed by a virtual segment June 19-25 on ABFF PLAY, https://abffplay.com/. As previously announced Emmy^®-winning writer, producer and actor Lena Waithe is ABFF’s 2023 Festival Ambassador.

For festival information, including media credentials and how to obtain an ABFF pass, visit www.abff.com. Follow @ABFF on Twitter and @AmericanBlackFilmFestival on Instagram and Facebook.

Since its inception, the highly anticipated American Black Film Festival has become a cornerstone for diversity in Hollywood. It has premiered the work and supported the careers of many of today’s most successful filmmakers, actors, writers and stand-up comedians and is recognized as a standard-bearer of excellence for Black creativity. Continuing its legacy to empower Black artists and showcase a wide range of entertainment content will feature studio premieres independent films, master classes, panels, talent showcases, networking and hospitality events.

ABFF sponsors and partners to date are Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO^® (Founding), Andscape, Ally (Presenting), City of Miami Beach, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), UPS, Netflix, TV One Networks (Major), American Airlines, IMDb, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Variety, YouTube Black Voices, Prudential Financial, Bounce TV (Official), A&E, BET Media Group, Motion Picture Association (MPA), Confluential Films, Pfizer, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (Supporting).

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About ABFF
The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is a property of ABFF Ventures LLC, an entertainment company specializing in the production of live events and platforms that celebrate Black culture and achievement. ABFF, the company’s flagship event, is dedicated to recognizing Black talent and showcasing quality film and television content by and about people of African descent. ABFF founder Jeff Friday conceived the festival in 1997 as a vehicle to strengthen the Black entertainment community by fostering resource sharing, education and artistic collaboration. Now in its 27th year, the festival has become a key proponent of diversity in Hollywood, providing a platform for emerging Black artists. The ABFF is a property of ABFF Ventures LLC, an entertainment company specializing in the production of live events that promote Black culture and achievement.

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Media Contact:

Chelsye J. Burrows
ABFF Ventures LLC
[email protected]