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American Black Film Festival Announces Los Angeles Pop Up Programming Featuring Award-Winning Independent Films, Celebrity Conversations, and Curated Panels with Salli Richardson-Whitfield, Tika Sumpter, Ben Watkins, and More

ABFF’s First-Ever National Pop Up Tour Culminates in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CA (November 17, 2025) – NICE CROWD, the company behind the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), today announced the programming slate for the final stop of the first ABFF Pop Up Tour in Los Angeles taking place at AMC The Grove 14 on Saturday, December 13 and Sunday, December 14, 2025. The ABFF Pop Up Tour is a new national initiative, expanding beyond its flagship annual Miami Beach event, bringing the energy, creativity, and community spirit of the acclaimed festival to audiences in select U.S. markets. The 2025 Pop Up Tour is launched with national support from Founding Sponsor Ally Financial.

ABFF Los Angeles Pop Up Programming

More information and all event tickets available via Eventbrite HERE.

Bringing Stories to Life in 3D: Creating Believable Creatures & Characters, Presented by New York Film Academy (NYFA)
Saturday, December 13, 11:00 am
Learn the techniques and philosophy behind how some of the most iconic creatures in Hollywood were created. Creature & character creator, Craig Caton, discusses his techniques and principles for creating memorable creatures & character performances for telling visual stories. This presentation does not require the audience to have any prior specific technical knowledge. It contains several fun moments for audience participation and interaction. Instructed by Craig Caton.

Beyond the Role: Wealth, Worth & Womanhood — A Conversation with Tika Sumpter, Presented by Ally
Saturday, December 13, 2:15 pm
In Hollywood and in life women are often cast in roles written by someone else. But what happens when we reclaim the pen? In this intimate fireside chat, actor, producer and creator Tika Sumpter joins Ally’s Head of Money Wellness, Jack Howard, for a candid conversation about rewriting your personal money story and beliefs. Together they’ll explore the intersection of creative ownership, financial wellness and emotional wealth and how to build a life and career rooted in values, not validation. Moderated by Jack Howard, Head of Money Wellness.

Hit Series CROSS Returns for Season 2, Presented by Prime Video
Saturday, December 13, 4:50 pm
Be among the first to experience Prime Video’s hit crime drama CROSS with an exclusive advance screening of the first episode of Season Two, ahead of its February 11, 2026 premiere. Following the screening, join showrunner/executive producer Ben Watkins and stars Matthew Lillard, Johnny Ray Gill, and Stacie Greenwell for a live talkback diving into what fans can expect from the upcoming new season. From shocking twists to bold turns in Detective Alex Cross’ journey, the conversation offers a closer look at the stories, characters, and creative vision behind one of television’s most gripping thrillers. An exciting night celebrating dynamic storytelling and the return of a fan-favorite series you don’t want to miss.

2025 HBO Short Film Showcase Followed by a Conversation with Filmmakers Princess Adenike, Nick Buchheit, and DeeDee Casimir
Saturday, December 13, 8:30 pm
The 2025 HBO Short Film Showcase spotlights the five finalists from the 29th American Black Film Festival, selected from a pool of thousands. Together, these films reflect the vitality, humor, and complexity of contemporary Black storytelling. The program features the following lineup: ADO (Written by Sam Henderson and Ryan Romine; Directed by Sam Henderson), A Beauty Supply in Queens (Written by Princess Adenike; Directed by Oluseyi Olatujoye and Princess Adenike), In Good Hands (Written by Yasmine Crawley; Directed by Nick Buchheit), ManBooBs (Written and Directed by Luke Harris), and Last Hoorah at G-Baby’s (Written and Directed by DeeDee Casimir).

Swimming Against The Current, Presented by AARP
Sunday, December 14, 12:00 pm
As most of us dread the idea of getting “older,” the seniors of the “Harlem Honeys and Bears” Synchronize Swim Team inspire us to live our best lives regardless of age.

“A Creator Conversation” with Salli Richardson-Whitfield, Presented by AARP
Sunday, December 14, 2:10 pm
Join acclaimed Emmy nominated director and executive producer Salli Richardson-Whitfield for an inspiring conversation about her evolution both in front of and behind the camera. From standout performances in film and television to her acclaimed work directing and executive producing Task, The Gilded Age, and Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, Richardson-Whitfield has become one of Hollywood’s most visionary storytellers. This candid discussion will explore her creative process, leadership, and commitment to authenticity and representation in shaping stories that create lasting impact. Moderated by Nicole Friday (President & Co-founder, NICE CROWD).

Hoops, Hopes & Dreams Screening, Presented by Andscape
Sunday, December 14, 4:30 pm
The untold story about how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a team of civil rights activists took to basketball courts to connect with young voters, and how their strategy echoes in politics through President Obama’s historic campaign.

ABFF Pop Up sponsors and partners to date include Ally Financial (Founding & National Presenting), AARP, Amazon MGM Studios, Andscape (Official), New York Film Academy (NYFA) (Supporting), AMC Theaters (Screening Venue Partner), IMDbPro (Industry).

About ABFF Pop Up Tour:
A national tour bringing ABFF programming and spirit to four key U.S. markets.

Founding sponsor: Ally Financial

  • New York – October 25-26 | AMC Lincoln Square
  • Atlanta – November 8-9 | AMC Madison Yards
  • Dallas – November 15-16 | AMC NorthPark
  • Los Angeles – December 13-14 | AMC The Grove

About ABFF:
Founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is the premier destination for Black storytelling and a vital platform for emerging talent. ABFF has helped launch the careers of many of today’s most acclaimed filmmakers and actors while advocating for inclusion and representation in Hollywood and beyond.

About NICE CROWD:
NICE CROWD is a pioneering live events company operating at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and tourism. Founded by husband-and-wife team Nicole and Jeff Friday, the company produces festivals, awards shows, and destination-based experiences across major U.S. cities and international markets. At the heart of NICE CROWD is a belief in The Power of Gathering—bringing communities together to celebrate creativity, amplify emerging voices, and spark meaningful connection. The company’s mission is to harness that power to drive cultural relevance and economic impact for its partners. Best known for its flagship property, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), now in its 30th year, the company has evolved into a global brand with deep expertise in event production, audience engagement, and strategic partnerships.

More information about the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Pop Up Tour: https://www.abffpopup.com/

Apply for a media credential HERE

Download images from ABFF HERE

Media Contact:
[email protected]

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American Black Film Festival Announces Dallas Pop Up Programming Featuring Award-Winning Independent Films, Celebrity Conversations, and Curated Panels

ABFF’s First-Ever National Pop Up Tour Continues in Dallas

LOS ANGELES, CA (October 30, 2025) – NICE CROWD, the company behind the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), today announced the programming slate for the upcoming ABFF Pop Up Tour in Dallas taking place at AMC NorthPark 15 on Saturday, November 15 and Sunday, November 16, 2025. The ABFF Pop Up Tour is a new national initiative, expanding beyond its flagship annual Miami Beach event, bringing the energy, creativity, and community spirit of the acclaimed festival to audiences in select U.S. markets this fall. The 2025 Pop Up Tour is launched with national support from Founding Sponsor Ally Financial.

ABFF Dallas Pop Up Programming

More information and all event tickets available via Eventbrite HERE.

Break It Down: How to Bring Any Script to Life, Presented by New York Film Academy (NYFA)
Saturday, November 15, 11:00 am
Learn how to creatively and efficiently break down a script or audition sides so you can sharpen your service as a storyteller in this masterclass with NYFA instructor and actor Gerrard James! We will learn how to ask and answer the right questions so the script can activate your imagination, and also learn how to start embodying the text so you can believably live within its world.

Creative Storytelling and the Business of Sports and Content with Syd Colson and Theresa Plaisance (TP), Presented by Ally
Saturday, November 15, 2:15 pm
In today’s world, athletes and entertainers aren’t just performing – they’re producing, investing, and owning their stories. This fireside chat explores the intersection of sports, content and finance: how storytelling can be a tool for empowerment, education and wealth building. From films that reshape public perception to business ventures that secure financial independence, we’ll unpack how today’s athletes and creatives are transforming their platforms into legacies of ownership and impact. Featuring Syd Colson and Theresa Plaisance (TP). Moderated by Jack Howard, Head of Money Wellness, Ally Financial.

Love Offside Screening
Saturday, November 15, 4:50 pm
When an undervalued physical therapist secretly takes on a famous rugby player’s recovery using a bold mix of Jamaican herbal remedies and modern therapy, she risks her career—and her heart—in a fight to prove her worth.

2025 HBO Short Film Showcase Followed by a Conversation with Filmmakers Princess Adenike and Sam Henderson
Saturday, November 15, 8:30 pm
The 2025 HBO Short Film Showcase spotlights the five finalists from the 29th American Black Film Festival, selected from a pool of thousands. Together, these films reflect the vitality, humor, and complexity of contemporary Black storytelling. The program features the following lineup: ADO (Written by Sam Henderson and Ryan Romine; Directed by Sam Henderson), A Beauty Supply in Queens (Written by Princess Adenike; Directed by Oluseyi Olatujoye and Princess Adenike), In Good Hands (Written by Yasmine Crawley; Directed by Nick Buchheit), ManBooBs (Written and Directed by Luke Harris), and Last Hoorah at G-Baby’s (Written and Directed by DeeDee Casimir).

The Fisherman Screening
Sunday, November 16, 1:00 pm, Family Friendly
In Zoey Martinson’s award-winning feast of magical realist comedy, aging Ghanaian Atta Oko sets his sights on finally having his own boat and becoming the envy of his village; he’ll just need help from a talking dead fish first. Winner, 2025 American Black Film Festival Best Narrative Feature and Best Director.

Good Shot Screening
Sunday, November 16, 4:00 pm
In the heart of Watts, a beloved neighborhood legend named Maxwell seeks redemption as a father after a lifetime of using basketball to mask his pain.

The Late Night Creep Screening
Sunday, November 16, 6:45 pm
For a married man, date night without the wife can be hell.

ABFF Pop Up sponsors and partners to date include Ally Financial (Founding & National Presenting), Andscape, New York Film Academy (NYFA), The Marketing Collective (Supporting), AMC Theaters (Screening Venue Partner), IMDbPro (Industry).

About ABFF Pop Up Tour:
A national tour bringing ABFF programming and spirit to four key U.S. markets.

Founding sponsor: Ally Financial

  • New York – October 25-26 | AMC Lincoln Square
  • Atlanta – November 8-9 | AMC Madison Yards
  • Dallas – November 15-16 | AMC NorthPark
  • Los Angeles – December 13-14 | AMC The Grove

About ABFF:
Founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is the premier destination for Black storytelling and a vital platform for emerging talent. ABFF has helped launch the careers of many of today’s most acclaimed filmmakers and actors while advocating for inclusion and representation in Hollywood and beyond.

About NICE CROWD:
NICE CROWD is a pioneering live events company operating at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and tourism. Founded by husband-and-wife team Nicole and Jeff Friday, the company produces festivals, awards shows, and destination-based experiences across major U.S. cities and international markets. At the heart of NICE CROWD is a belief in The Power of Gathering—bringing communities together to celebrate creativity, amplify emerging voices, and spark meaningful connection. The company’s mission is to harness that power to drive cultural relevance and economic impact for its partners. Best known for its flagship property, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), now in its 30th year, the company has evolved into a global brand with deep expertise in event production, audience engagement, and strategic partnerships.

More information about the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Pop Up Tour: https://www.abffpopup.com/

Apply for a media credential HERE

Download images from ABFF HERE

Media Contact:
[email protected]

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American Black Film Festival Announces Atlanta Pop Up Programming Featuring Award-Winning Independent Films, Celebrity Conversations, and Curated Panels with Terri J. Vaughn, Isaac Keys, Kris Lofton, Adrienne Walker, And More

ABFF’s First-Ever National Pop Up Tour Continues in Atlanta

LOS ANGELES, CA (October 6, 2025) – NICE CROWD, the company behind the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), today announced the programming slate for the upcoming ABFF Pop Up Tour in Atlanta taking place at AMC Madison Yards 8 on Saturday, November 8 and Sunday, November 9, 2025. The ABFF Pop Up Tour is a new national initiative, expanding beyond its flagship annual Miami Beach event, bringing the energy, creativity, and community spirit of the acclaimed festival to audiences in select U.S. markets this fall. The 2025 Pop Up Tour is launched with national support from Founding Sponsor Ally Financial.

ABFF Atlanta Pop Up Programming

More information and all event tickets available via Eventbrite HERE.

The Art of Emotional Writing: Engaging Audiences Scene by Scene Master Class with Randall Dottin, Presented by New York Film Academy (NYFA)
Saturday, November 8, 11:00 am
The phrase write what you know is a cornerstone of storytelling advice, but it’s only part of the equation. Great writing isn’t just about facts—it’s about feelings. Emotion is the heartbeat of every great story, and creating it is a skill every storyteller should master. In this two hour workshop, Randall Dottin, Chair of the New York Film Academy Film Arts Department, Sundance grant recipient and winner of the 2022 ABFF Award for Best Web Series—will guide you through tools and techniques to make your stories emotionally resonant. With the help of curated short film clips, writing exercises, and open discussion, you’ll learn how to make every scene in your film leave a lasting impression.

“Flourish Creatively and Financially” with a Special Guest Appearance, Presented by Ally
Saturday, November 8, 2:15 pm
Ally will host an intimate conversation with a special guest. This panel will equip you with the tools and inspiration needed to thrive, balancing creativity with financial acumen. Discover how behind the camera roles can open doors to unparalleled creative control and how forging your own path can inspire others, particularly women and underrepresented voices, to embrace their unique stories and visions. We’ll also explore how merging artistic vision with smart financial strategies can sustain your creative endeavors. Moderated by: Erica Hughes, Sr. Director-PR, Ally Financial.

Power Moves: Isaac Keys, Kris Lofton & Adrienne Walker on the Final Season of Power Book IV: Force, Presented by STARZ
Saturday, November 8, 4:30 pm
Join STARZ for a special screening of its season three premiere, “Power Book IV: Force” episode. Following the special screening, stay for a special conversation with cast members Isaac Keys (“Get Shorty,” “The Oath”), who plays “Diamond Sampson,” Kris Lofton (“Ballers,” “Snowfall”), who plays “Jenard Sampson” and Adrienne Walker (The Lion King, “Law & Order: Organized Crime,”) as the trio discuss the impact of Force, their creative processes, and their Atlanta ties.

2025 HBO Short Film Showcase Followed by Talkback with Filmmakers Princess Adenike and Dr. Sylvia Owusu-Ansah
Saturday, November 8, 7:00 pm
The 2025 HBO Short Film Showcase spotlights the five finalists from the 29th American Black Film Festival, selected from a pool of thousands. Together, these films reflect the vitality, humor, and complexity of contemporary Black storytelling. The program features the following lineup: ADO (Written by Sam Henderson and Ryan Romine; Directed by Sam Henderson), A Beauty Supply in Queens (Written by Princess Adenike; Directed by Oluseyi Olatujoye and Princess Adenike), In Good Hands (Written by Yasmine Crawley; Directed by Nick Buchheit), ManBooBs (Written and Directed by Luke Harris), and Last Hoorah at G-Baby’s (Written and Directed by DeeDee Casimir).

BOB Talks: Couples Edition
Sunday, November 9, 12:00 pm
BOB Talks (Black-Owned Brands) is a panel series celebrating Black entrepreneurship. This edition spotlights Atlanta–based founders and their standout brands, featuring candid conversations on the realities of building a business—from navigating challenges to achieving success. The session offers practical insights and inspiration for the next generation of entrepreneurs. Featured founders include Maya & Brian Smith of The Doux and Jilea & Jamie Hemmings of Nourish + Bloom. Moderated by: Nicole Friday (President & Co-founder, NICE CROWD)

“A Creator Conversation” with Terri J. Vaughn
Sunday, November 9, 2:30 pm
Join acclaimed actor, director, and producer Terri J. Vaughn for an inspiring conversation reflecting on her multifaceted career in film and television. From her breakout comedic roles that cemented her as a fan favorite to her evolution as a filmmaker dedicated to telling authentic stories, Vaughn has built a legacy rooted in creativity, resilience, and representation. This candid discussion will explore her journey in front of and behind the camera, the lessons learned along the way, and her vision for empowering the next generation of storytellers.

Hoops, Hopes, & Dreams Screening Followed by Talkback with Special Guests Including Producer Alexys Feaster, Presented by Andscape
Sunday, November 9, 5:00 pm
The untold story about how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a team of civil rights activists took to basketball courts to connect with young voters, and how their strategy echoes in politics through President Obama’s historic campaign.

Meta Take One Screening Followed by Talkback with Writer-Directors John Dierre and Ryan Dutter.
Sunday, November 9, 7:30pm
Winner, 2025 American Black Film Festival John Singleton Award for Best Debut Feature. An obsessive young director & his crew plunge into a frantic night-long odyssey of desperation to finish his film, no matter the cost.

ABFF Pop Up sponsors and partners to date include Ally Financial (Founding & National Presenting), Andscape, STARZ, (Official), New York Film Academy (NYFA), Nissan (Supporting), AMC Theaters (Screening Venue Partner), IMDbPro, Fulton Films (GA) Office (Industry).

About ABFF Pop Up Tour:
A national tour bringing ABFF programming and spirit to four key U.S. markets.

Founding sponsor: Ally Financial

  • New York – October 25-26 | AMC Lincoln Square
  • Atlanta – November 8-9 | AMC Madison Yards
  • Dallas – November 15-16 | AMC NorthPark
  • Los Angeles – December 13-14 | AMC The Grove

About ABFF:
Founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is the premier destination for Black storytelling and a vital platform for emerging talent. ABFF has helped launch the careers of many of today’s most acclaimed filmmakers and actors while advocating for inclusion and representation in Hollywood and beyond.

About NICE CROWD:
NICE CROWD is a pioneering live events company operating at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and tourism. Founded by husband-and-wife team Nicole and Jeff Friday, the company produces festivals, awards shows, and destination-based experiences across major U.S. cities and international markets. At the heart of NICE CROWD is a belief in The Power of Gathering—bringing communities together to celebrate creativity, amplify emerging voices, and spark meaningful connection. The company’s mission is to harness that power to drive cultural relevance and economic impact for its partners. Best known for its flagship property, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), now in its 30th year, the company has evolved into a global brand with deep expertise in event production, audience engagement, and strategic partnerships.

More information about the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Pop Up Tour: https://www.abffpopup.com/

Apply for a media credential HERE

Download images from ABFF HERE

Media Contact:
[email protected]

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American Black Film Festival Announces NYC Pop Up Programming Featuring Award-Winning Independent Films, Celebrity Conversations, and Curated Panels with Naturi Naughton, Malcolm D. Lee, and More

New York City Stop Kicks Off ABFF’s First-Ever National Pop Up Tour

LOS ANGELES, CA (September 22, 2025) – NICE CROWD, the company behind the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), today announced the programming slate for the upcoming ABFF Pop Up Tour in New York City taking place at AMC Lincoln Square 13 from Saturday, October 25 – Sunday, October 26, 2025. The ABFF Pop Up Tour is a new national initiative, expanding beyond its flagship annual Miami Beach event, bringing the energy, creativity, and community spirit of the acclaimed festival to audiences in select U.S. markets this fall. The 2025 Pop Up Tour is launched with national support from Founding Sponsor Ally Financial.

ABFF New York City Pop Up Programming

More information and all event tickets available via Eventbrite HERE.

“Money Wellness and the Creator” with Naturi Naughton, presented by Ally
Saturday, October 25 – 2:15 pm
Ally will host an intimate one-on-one conversation with actress and singer Naturi Naughton to learn about her journey to financial independence and how smart saving, budgeting, and building a healthy relationship with her finances have played a key role. The fireside chat, moderated by Ally’s Erica Hughes, will explore how creativity and money can work in partnership to ignite your best life. Join us for practical tips and insights on thriving as a financially independent creator in the entertainment industry.

The Fisherman Screening Followed by Talkback with Writer and Director Zoey Martinson and Producer Korey Jackson
Saturday, October 25 – 4:50 pm
In Zoey Martinson’s award-winning feast of magical realist comedy, aging Ghanaian Atta Oko sets his sights on finally having his own boat and becoming the envy of his village, he’ll just need help from a talking dead fish first. Winner, 2025 American Black Film Festival Best Narrative Feature and Best Director.

2025 HBO Short Film Showcase Followed by Conversation with Filmmakers, Princess Adenike, Nick Buchheit, and Yasmine Crawley
Saturday, October 25 – 8:30 pm
The 2025 HBO Short Film Showcase spotlights the five finalists from the 29th American Black Film Festival, selected from a pool of thousands. Together, these films reflect the vitality, humor, and complexity of contemporary Black storytelling.

BOB Talks
Sunday, October 26 – 12:00 pm
BOB Talks (Black-Owned Brands) is a panel series celebrating Black entrepreneurship. This edition spotlights New York-based founders and their standout brands, featuring candid conversations on the realities of building a business—from navigating challenges to achieving success. The session offers practical insights and inspiration for the next generation of entrepreneurs. Featured founders include Chaneve Jeanniton of epi.logic and Kim Harris of Harlem Hops. Moderated by: Nicole Friday (President & Co-founder, NICE CROWD).

Fatherless No More Screening Followed by Talkback with Director and Producer Kayla Johnson and Pastor Tim Johnson
Sunday, October 26 – 2:35 pm
Fatherless No More chronicles the remarkable journey of an Orlando-based pastor and former Super Bowl Champion who was driven by a divine calling to move into an RV at a place often deemed hell on earth, Rikers Island.

“A Creator Conversation” with Malcolm D. Lee
Sunday, October 26 – 5:40 pm
Join acclaimed writer, director, and author Malcolm D. Lee (The Best Man, Girls Trip) for an intimate conversation exploring his creative process and celebrated career. From shaping enduring stories of friendship and love to directing box-office comedies that define a generation, Lee has built a body of work that resonates across audiences. This candid discussion will highlight his journey as a filmmaker, the challenges and triumphs behind his success, and his perspective on the evolving landscape of contemporary cinema.

Can You Stand The Rain Screening Followed by Talkback with Director, Writer, and Producer Eden Marryshow
Sunday, October 26 – 8:15 pm
A group of lifelong friends reunite after the sudden death of their childhood anchor, only to confront buried dreams, hidden tensions, long-held regrets — and the truth about who they’ve become… and who they still might be

ABFF Pop Up sponsors and partners to date include Ally Financial (Founding & National Presenting), Andscape (Supporting), AMC Theaters (Screening Venue Partner), New York Film Academy (NYFA) (Industry).

About ABFF Pop Up Tour:
A national tour bringing ABFF programming and spirit to four key U.S. markets. Founding sponsor: Ally Financial

  • New York – October 25-26 | AMC Lincoln Square
  • Atlanta – November 8-9 | AMC Madison Yards
  • Dallas – November 15-16 | AMC NorthPark
  • Los Angeles – December 13-14 | AMC The Grove

About ABFF:
Founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is the premier destination for Black storytelling and a vital platform for emerging talent. ABFF has helped launch the careers of many of today’s most acclaimed filmmakers and actors while advocating for inclusion and representation in Hollywood and beyond.

About NICE CROWD:
NICE CROWD is a pioneering live events company operating at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and tourism. Founded by husband-and-wife team Nicole and Jeff Friday, the company produces festivals, awards shows, and destination-based experiences across major U.S. cities and international markets. At the heart of NICE CROWD is a belief in The Power of Gathering—bringing communities together to celebrate creativity, amplify emerging voices, and spark meaningful connection. The company’s mission is to harness that power to drive cultural relevance and economic impact for its partners. Best known for its flagship property, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), now in its 30th year, the company has evolved into a global brand with deep expertise in event production, audience engagement, and strategic partnerships.

More information about the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Pop Up Tour: https://www.abffpopup.com/

Download images from ABFF HERE

Media Contact:
[email protected]

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American Black Film Festival Expands to New York City, Atlanta, Dallas & Los Angeles Ahead of the Legendary Festival’s 30th Anniversary

ABFF POP-UP TOUR IGNITES THIS OCTOBER IN NEW YORK CITY, ATLANTA, DALLAS & LOS ANGELES

LOS ANGELES, CA (August 13, 2025) – NICE CROWD, the company behind the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), today announced the launch of the ABFF Pop-Up Tour, a new national initiative bringing the energy, creativity, and community spirit of the acclaimed festival to four major markets across the U.S. this fall. The ABFF Pop-Up Tour kicks off in October 2025 at AMC Theatres in New York City, followed by stops in Atlanta and Dallas in November, and culminating in Los Angeles this December. Now approaching its 30th year, ABFF is expanding beyond its flagship annual Miami Beach event to extend its mission of cultural equity, creativity, and access to communities nationwide. The Pop-Up Tour will feature award-winning independent films, celebrity conversations, and curated panels—including BOB Talks, an inspiring speaker series spotlighting Black-Owned Brands. Designed to meet audiences where they are, the tour activates cities where Black arts and entertainment communities live and thrive. The 2025 Pop-Up Tour is launched with national support from Founding Sponsor Ally Financial.

“For nearly three decades, ABFF has been a cornerstone for showcasing and elevating Black storytelling,” said Jeff Friday, ABFF Cofounder and CEO of Nice Crowd. “The ABFF Pop-Up Tour is a natural evolution of that mission—a mobile cultural movement designed to expand opportunity and deepen connection. By bringing the ABFF experience directly into local communities, we’re creating new spaces to discover talent, celebrate creativity, and unite through the power of film and shared culture. We’re excited to partner with Ally Financial to help bring this vision to life.”

ABFF POP-UP TOUR (October 2025 – December 2025)

A national tour bringing ABFF programming and spirit to four key U.S. markets. Founding sponsor: Ally Financial

  • New York – October 25–26 | AMC Lincoln Square
  • Atlanta – November 8–9 | AMC Madison Yards
  • Dallas – November 15–16 | AMC NorthPark
  • Los Angeles – December 13–14 | AMC The Grove

“Ally honors the remarkable talent and creativity showcased at the American Black Film Festival Pop-Up Tour as a part of our long-standing commitment as a true ally to Black and brown creators and artists,” said Erica Hughes, senior director, Ally Marketing. “Elevating their voices, sharing their experiences, and celebrating the unique gifts they bring to our communities is a key piece of Ally’s mission to serve everyone as a financial ally.”

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.

About ABFF:
Founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is the premier destination for Black storytelling and a vital platform for emerging talent. ABFF has helped launch the careers of many of today’s most acclaimed filmmakers and actors while advocating for inclusion and representation in Hollywood and beyond.

About NICE CROWD:
NICE CROWD is a pioneering live events company operating at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and tourism. Founded by husband-and-wife team Nicole and Jeff Friday, the company produces festivals, awards shows, and destination-based experiences across major U.S. cities and international markets. At the heart of NICE CROWD is a belief in The Power of Gathering—bringing communities together to celebrate creativity, amplify emerging voices, and spark meaningful connection. The company’s mission is to harness that power to drive cultural relevance and economic impact for its partners. Best known for its flagship property, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), now in its 30th year, the company has evolved into a global brand with deep expertise in event production, audience engagement, and strategic partnerships.

More information about the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) PopUp Tour: https://www.abffpopup.com/

Download images from ABFF HERE

Media Contact:
[email protected]