Miami Beach, FL – The 29th American Black Film Festival (ABFF) lit up South Beach June 11–13, bringing together Hollywood icons, fresh talent, and audiences celebrating Black storytelling.
Day 1 opened with the HBO® Short Film Award Showcase, one of the most prestigious short film platforms. Five finalists competed for prizes, as festival ambassador Larenz Tate joined founders Jeff & Nicole Friday in welcoming guests.
Day 2 featured Chris Paul on his transition into production, Walmart’s Black & Unlimited Fatherhood Project, and a candid talk with Gabrielle Union on sisterhood and money. Later, Bravo’s Kings Court stars Tyson Beckford and Titus O’Neil hit the stage, followed by premieres with Michael Jai White, Method Man, and a moving one-man show by Dondré Whitfield. The night closed with DC Young Fly’s comedy showcase.
Day 3 kept the momentum with Ashanti debuting her Peacock docuseries with Nelly, a longevity chat with Blair Underwood, and a STARZ double feature of Magic City and BMF featuring Jermaine Dupri and Da’Vinchi. Mara Brock Akil shared insights on her hit Netflix series FOREVER, and the festival closed with *Courtney Glaude’s moving film Old Gray Mare.
Since 1997, ABFF has been the leading platform for Black creativity on screen — and 2025 proved once again why it remains the culture’s biggest stage.
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