The 29th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is set to illuminate Miami Beach from June 11 to 15, 2025, celebrating Black culture and creativity in cinema. This year’s festival promises a packed schedule of film screenings, master classes, panels, and entertainment, with the overarching goal of showcasing Black talent and storytelling.
A highlight of the festival is the appointment of Trinidad’s Nia Long and Larenz Tate as ABFF Ambassadors. Renowned for their roles in the 1997 romantic drama “Love Jones,” Long and Tate will engage in an intimate conversation reflecting on the film’s enduring legacy, offering attendees a behind-the-scenes look at this cult classic.
The festival’s schedule is filled with diverse events. Official Selection Screenings will run daily at the Miami Beach Convention Center and O Cinema South Beach, providing a platform for emerging and established filmmakers. Master classes, such as “Producing Stories for Global Audiences on a Budget” and “The Art of Emotional Writing: Engaging Audiences Scene by Scene,” aim to equip attendees with practical industry skills. Panel discussions and expert talks will delve into various facets of filmmaking and Black culture, including the future of the industry as it relates to AI. Notably, the “The Fabric of Storytelling: Costume Design in Black Entertainment” will explore the intersection of fashion and film, celebrating the nuances of costume design in Black narratives.
Evening entertainment includes the “Because They’re Funny” comedy show, spotlighting BIPOC comedic talent, and the iconic “Legendary White Party” at M2 Nightclub, offering a vibrant nightlife experience.
The festival culminates with the “City of Miami Community Day” at the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater, a free public event emphasizing community engagement and cultural appreciation.
For those interested in attending, various festival passes are available, offering access to screenings, panels, and exclusive events. Early purchase is recommended, as some events may require separate tickets.
Get your passes at abff.com/miami/festival-passes, or check out the specific programming at abff.com/miami/programming-preview.
