Festival Overview
The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is an annual event dedicated to empowering Black talent and showcasing film and television content by and about people of African descent. Believing that diverse artists deserve the same opportunities as their mainstream counterparts, ABFF Founder Jeff Friday conceived the festival in 1997 to strengthen the Black entertainment community through resource sharing, education, and artistic collaboration.
As the most prestigious festival of its kind, ABFF attracts a global community of Black film and television enthusiasts. Featuring a dynamic mix of film screenings, panel discussions, master classes, and networking opportunities, the festival provides a vital platform for both emerging and established talent to connect, showcase their work, and engage in meaningful industry dialogue. Held annually in June, the five-day event in Miami Beach draws over 7,000 attendees from around the world, amplifying Black voices in Hollywood and beyond.
The festival’s origins trace back to a pivotal moment in January 1997 when Friday, motivated by the lack of diversity he noticed while attending a major industry film festival, asked himself three critical questions: Were Black and Brown filmmakers feeling unwelcome at industry festivals? Could a platform focused on content created by and about people of African descent succeed? And if such a platform were created, would people attend? Without clear answers, Friday took a leap of faith, leaving his role as president of a major advertising agency’s film division to dedicate himself to building the American Black Film Festival.
For nearly three decades, ABFF has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. It has served as a springboard for countless actors, writers, and directors—many of whom were previously unknown—helping to reshape the narratives of film and television. The festival’s dedication to inclusivity and fostering new talent has cemented its legacy, with its significance recognized by the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, which has preserved ABFF’s photographs and archives in its permanent collection. As ABFF approaches its 29th year, it continues to inspire change, paving the way for a more equitable entertainment landscape both in the U.S. and internationally.
The 29th annual festival will take place in Miami Beach from June 11-15. 2025.
Programming Pillars
Programs designed to encourage and assist with career development.
Exhibition platform where a cross-section of content creators can share their work.
Numerous networking opportunities to connect and share resources.
Up-and-coming creative and industry professionals meet and stay connected, building strong ties within and beyond the Hollywood community.
Acknowledging outstanding work and rewarding creatives, inspiring them to continue their road to success.
Festival Activities
ABFF features a diverse array of programming, including Hollywood premieres, independent screenings, panels, seminars, master classes, awards presentations, talent showcases, community events, networking opportunities, and live entertainment.
Star-studded screenings of highly anticipated films, offering audiences exclusive first looks at major studio releases.
Narrative features, documentaries, shorts, and series spotlighting stories by and about people of African descent, celebrating diverse voices and perspectives.
Exclusive previews of television and film content from major studios, networks, and streaming platforms, showcasing the best in Black entertainment.
Intimate celebrity interviews and discussions on the latest trends, anticipated releases, and key topics in entertainment. Moderated by top media figures, these sessions provide behind-the-scenes insights and thought-provoking perspectives, making them a festival highlight.
Professional sessions led by top media and technology companies, offering insights into the business of entertainment and industry best practices.
Classroom-style lectures led by industry professionals, covering a wide range of entertainment disciplines. The 2025 program is proudly presented in partnership with the New York Film Academy (NYFA).
The festival’s closing ceremony, celebrating excellence as winners of the film competitions and talent programs are announced.
Live presentations featuring winners of the festival’s corporate-sponsored talent discovery programs, celebrating and rewarding emerging actors and content creators.
A free, community-focused day featuring screenings and activities at the Historic Lyric Theater in Miami’s Overtown, celebrating local culture and connection.
Social activities including festival parties, influencer dinners, and receptions, designed to foster community engagement and build professional connections.
Exclusive passholder events featuring comedy, music, podcasts and other live performances.