Programming Preview
Panels & Conversations
The following provides a preview of the 2025 festival events, with more to be announced. Some events are available by purchasing tickets, while others are exclusive to pass holders. Please follow us on social media for updates.
Remembering Love Jones: An Evening with Nia Long and Larenz Tate
Saturday, June 14 | 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
New World Center
Join us for a rare and intimate conversation with Nia Long and Larenz Tate celebrating the legacy of Love Jones (1997), the iconic romantic drama written and directed by Theodore Witcher. This signature ABFF event offers attendees a unique behind-the-scenes look at the cult classic, honoring its poetic dialogue, dynamic performances, and authentic portrayal of Black love—elements that made Love Jones a cultural touchstone.
Adding to the magic of the evening, we’ll feature curated selections from the film’s iconic soundtrack, a musical masterpiece in its own right. From soulful ballads to jazzy rhythms, these timeless tracks will transport attendees back to the essence of Love Jones and its unforgettable vibe.
ABFF First Look is a signature panel at the American Black Film Festival, offering attendees an exclusive preview of the year’s most anticipated Black films and television series. Featuring directors, creators, and on-screen talent, the panel provides behind-the-scenes insights, extended clips, never-before-seen trailers, and informative conversations with the storytellers shaping Hollywood in 2025. To extend its impact beyond the live event, ABFF First Look will also stream on ABFF PLAY—the festival’s online platform—reaching more than 100,000 viewers across 125 countries.
Clicks To Careers: Navigating Social Media Success
Friday, June 13 | Time TBA
New World Center
Join the 2025 ABFF Social Media Ambassadors for a discussion on building a successful online presence and leveraging social media to enhance their careers in entertainment. Gain actionable insights on using digital platforms as game-changers in film, TV, and content creation.
The Future of Storytelling: AI and Immersive Technologies
Thursday, June 12 | Time TBA
New World Center
Hosted by Alton Glass from GRX Immersive Labs, this panel will explore the transformative role of AI and immersive technologies in storytelling, focusing on empowering Black creators. Participants will discover the creative possibilities of technology in narrative creation, including the application of Afrofuturism to enhance representation and expression.