If there’s one event that consistently fills my creative cup, it’s the American Black Film Festival. I’ve been attending for the past three years, and before summer peaks, Miami Beach transforms into a vibrant playground for Black storytellers, dreamers, and disruptors. Last year’s festival left me inspired, emotional, and ready for more — and trust me, 2025 is the year you’ll want to experience it for yourself.
An unforgettable highlight was attending the celebration of director and actor Denzel Washington in 2024. He returned to the festival for the first time in 26 years where he shared his journey of being in the film industry to his upcoming film (at the time) “Gladiator II”. He’s definitely a celebrated artist because the entire room was packed!
Now let’s bring it all the way south to Mississippi. The Southern-fried drama “P-Valley” made an appearance promoting the anticipated “Down in the Valley” docuseries. After stumbling upon this series, I was hooked about 20 episodes in and at the festival when I learned about the spin off docu series that delves into the rich and complex culture of the Deep South, guided by starring actor Nicco Annan, showcasing its sensuality, music, and diverse stories.
You may be asking “Why does ABFF matter?” Well, it’s about culture and opportunity. It’s not just for film buffs but for artists, fans, industry hopefuls, and culture lovers. The creativity and storytelling in ALL of the film projects will bring you into a world of curiosity and it’s a safe space to see “US” – on and behind the screen. It’s also about who’s in the room, who’s getting greenlit, and who’s finally being seen. And I’ve seen ALL! Especially opportunities to pitch, network, and grow as a collective. With a track record of star-studded premieres, thought-provoking panels, and unforgettable community moments, 2025 is shaping up to be even more electric!
Peep this…every year there are powerhouse ambassadors such as Lena Waithe in 2023. Now this year is going to be all the BUZZ because our favorite “Love Jones” iconic stars Nia Long and Larenz Tate are repping this year.
Don’t suffer from FOMO, grab your passes, download the event schedule in advance, stay close to the venues (save on Uber/Lyft), dress comfortably + fashionably and don’t sleep on the shorts! Your ABFF experience is what you make it. Go for the films, stay for the community, and leave with a deeper sense of purpose.
Nicky Gelin “Nicky Says Yolo”
Editor-At-Large
M•I•A Media Group |
M•I•A Magazine
Nicky@miamediagrp.com