The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is back in Miami Beach this June—and it’s giving us more than just a festival. From June 11–15 (and streaming globally via ABFF PLAY, June 16–24), the 29th annual celebration delivers a dynamic slate of screenings, conversations, and cultural moments that center Black storytelling in every form.
This year’s lineup is stacked: Gabrielle Union, Chris Paul, Blair Underwood, Ashanti, Holly Robinson Peete, and Tyson Beckford are just a few of the names headlining panels and talks. Nia Long and Larenz Tate, ABFF 2025’s official ambassadors, will also sit down for a special Love Jones tribute that’s sure to be one of the festival’s most talked-about events.
And it doesn’t stop there—Netflix will offer an exclusive glimpse into the creative synergy behind The Old Guard 2, ahead of its July 2 release, with a conversation featuring director Victoria Mahoney and star KiKi Layne. Plus, showrunner Mara Brock Akil will take the stage for a rare, in-depth discussion on her series Forever and the power of trauma-free Black storytelling.
New to this year’s experience is BOB Talks (Black Owned Brands), spotlighting visionary founders across beauty, food, wellness, and more. From Tyler Perry Studios and Starz premieres to HBO documentaries and intimate masterclasses, ABFF 2025 is pulling up with intention, inspiration, and a whole lot of Black brilliance.
Below is your complete guide to everything happening at this year’s festival. Whether you’re planning your schedule for Miami Beach or getting ready to stream from home, trust us—this is one slate you won’t want to miss.
Spotlight Screenings
Thursday, June 12:
- Black & Unlimited Fatherhood Project Director’s Showcase
Presented by Walmart
Celebrating Black fatherhood through independent filmmaking, featuring works by Okema T. Moore (Laundry), Aji Bass (Freshman. Again.), and Ian Phillips (Reconciliation). Moderated by Dr. Brandon Frame. - STARZ: Come Play in Our World
Screening and panel discussions for upcoming STARZ series, including:- Magic City: An American Fantasy
Executive producers Jermaine Dupri and Cole Brown delve into the cultural impact of the famed Atlanta strip club. Moderated by Jemele Hill. - Exploring the Impact of BMF on Culture, Music, and Fashion
Panelists include Da’Vinchi, Keia Bounds, and Derryck “Big Tank” Thornton, moderated by Kelley Carter.
- Magic City: An American Fantasy
Friday, June 13:
- Seen & Heard
Presented by Warner Bros. Discovery/HBO
A two-part documentary exploring Black representation in television, with a talkback featuring directors Giselle Bailey and Phil Bertelsen. - Old Gray Mare
Courtesy of Tyler Perry Studios
A poignant film addressing dementia’s impact on families. Panel includes Courtney Glaude, Charnelle Brown, Devale Ellis, Larissa Dali, and Tyler Lepley.
Saturday, June 14:
- Edge of Daybreak
Courtesy of A&E Networks
A short film by Dawn Porter about inmates creating timeless music. - Come Together: Art’s Power for Change
Courtesy of The Black Leadership AIDS Crisis Coalition (BLACC), powered by AHF
Revisiting the 2006 film Dirty Laundry and its cultural significance. Talkback with director Nathan Hale Williams.
Panels & Conversations
Thursday, June 12:
- After the Game: A Conversation with Chris Paul
NBA legend Chris Paul discusses his transition into media and entertainment. Moderated by Jemele Hill. - Sisterhood & Savings: A Conversation with Gabrielle Union
Presented by Ally Financial
Gabrielle Union explores collective financial growth and well-being. Moderated by Kelley L. Carter. - Bravo’s Kings Court: Grown Man Business – Love, Life, and the Spotlight
Presented by Comcast NBCUniversal
Panel featuring Tyson Beckford, Thaddeus “Titus O’Neil” Bullard, Holly Robinson Peete, Rodney Peete, and executive producer Richard Brown. Moderated by Scott Evans. - Propelling Purpose with Dondré Whitfield
A one-man show where Whitfield inspires attendees to transform pain into purpose.
Friday, June 13:
- The Future of Storytelling: AI and Immersive Technologies in Filmmaking
Hosted by Alton Glass, exploring AI’s role in empowering Black creators. - The Remix: Ashanti’s New Chapter of Love, Life & Legacy in Peacock’s Nelly & Ashanti: We Belong Together
Presented by Comcast NBCUniversal
Ashanti discusses her new docuseries with showrunner Oji Singletary and NBCUniversal’s Brittinee Royes. Moderated by Kathleen Newman-Bremang. - Creating with Care: A Conversation on Mental Wellness & the Creative Journey
Presented by Warner Bros. Discovery/OWN
Panelists Tai Beauchamp and Dr. Maysa Akbar discuss mental health in the entertainment industry. Moderated by Tina Perry. - The Longevity Playbook: A Conversation with Blair Underwood
Presented by AARP
Blair Underwood shares insights on career longevity and financial planning. Moderated by Alicia R. Wallace. - Reel & Radiant: A Mixer for Black LGBTQ+ Creatives and Their Allies
Presented by GLAAD’s Communities of Color & Media Team
A networking event focusing on Black LGBTQ+ voices in film and television.
Saturday, June 14:
- Reel Healing: Using Film to Normalize Mental Wellness in Black Communities
Presented by NAMI
Panelists Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. and Dr. Christine M. Crawford discuss authentic mental health narratives. Moderated by TBA. - Black Opulence: The Intersection of Culture, Class & Capital in Peacock’s Bel-Air
Presented by Comcast NBCUniversal
Panel with Carla Banks-Waddles, Cassandra Freeman, Adrian Holmes, and Olly Sholotan. Moderated by Kaitlyn McNab. - BOB Talks: Showcasing Black-Owned Brands
Celebrating Black entrepreneurship with founders Lisa Price (Carol’s Daughter), Ingrid Best (iBest Wines), Maya Smith (The Doux), and Jennifer Bell Sinigal-Cornelius (Born To Roam). Moderated by Nicole Friday. - Empowering Diversity Through Storytelling Networking Happy Hour
Presented by ESPN
Kati Fernandez discusses ESPN’s commitment to diverse storytelling. Moderated by Diadra Wilson.
Master Classes
Wednesday, June 11:
- Producing Stories for Global Audiences On A Restricted Budget
Instructor: Luisa Ibañez
Thursday, June 12:
- ACT IT OUT: Scene Exploration
Instructor: Patrice DeGraff Arenas
Friday, June 13:
- Making Choices as a Director
Instructor: Miguel Parga
Saturday, June 14:
- The Art of Emotional Writing: Engaging Audiences Scene by Scene
Instructor: Randall Dottin
Gala Events
Wednesday, June 11:
- HBO Short Film Award Showcase
Presented by Warner Bros. Discovery/HBO
Hosted by Bevy Smith, featuring five short films competing for the prestigious award.
Saturday, June 14:
- Remembering Love Jones
Presented by Walmart
An intimate conversation with Nia Long and Larenz Tate celebrating the legacy of Love Jones. Hosted by Scott Evans.
For a comprehensive schedule and more details, visit the official ABFF website: ABFF Miami.