Get ready for the Hollywood Black Film Festival, Oct. 25-28, at the W Hotel in Hollywood. The festival will feature an exciting lineup of films, panels, panelists and festivities over the four-day period.
Now in its twelfth year, Executive Director Tanya Kersey says: “This year marks a pivotal moment in our history as we celebrate the artistry of Black film from coast to coast and worldwide. This year it’s our goal to expose the masses to dynamic Black film, while educating people on best practices for getting film financing, creating stories and tapping into the power players doing the deals through our informative Infotainment Conference panels and workshops.”
The Hollywood Black Film Festival (HBFF) was founded in 1999 by Kersey, offering independent filmmakers the opportunity to showcase their work in front of Hollywood executives and decision makers, as well as the film-going audience. These films showcase new talent, as well as our favorite stars, making this festival the stuff of dreams.
To assist in fostering that Hollywood dream, be it in front of or behind the camera, outstanding panel discussions will be offered so attendees can get information straight from the source. From packing and pitching the project or you, and financial advice, to learning how to get into acting, filmmaking and creating content on a multi-platform market, it’s yours for the attending.
I’ve already signed up for the up-close-and-personal conversation Kersey will have with preacher/producer Devon Franklin. They will be discussing his career and book, “Produced by Faith.”
You can check out his video on the HBFF website. He will be signing his book at the event.
Much to my delight, “Note to Self” will open the 12th Hollywood Black Film Festival on Thursday, Oct. 25, at 7 p.m. at the Montalban Theater. “Note to Self” centers around a handsome and popular student-athlete who embarks on a journey of self-realization while navigating the choppy waters of a love triangle. “Note to Self” has a very fresh appeal, ushering in quality filmmaking and good storytelling.
The film stars Christian Keyes, LeToya Luckett, Richard T. Jones, Brian McKnight, Eva Marcille, Clifton Powell, Valarie Pettiford, Jason Weaver, Brely Evans, Sebastian Siegal, Willie Taylor, Mishon Ratliff and Brian McKnight Jr.
Following the screening, there will be a Q&A with the director, writer and cast, and a college-themed after-party will follow.
Closing night will feature the world premiere of ” 24 Hour Love,” which showcases seven stories of everyday people experiencing love, laughter, life and relationships of the heart–the good, the bad and the ugly. The film stars Melinda Williams, Tatyana Ali, Keith Robinson, Eva Marcille, Flex Alexander, Chico Benymon, Lynn Whitfield and Darius McCrary. The movie promises to be a sheer delight.
Following the screening there will be a Q&A with the director, writer and cast. The festival wrap-party will follow.
For additional information about the Hollywood Black Film Festival, and to get a schedule of the films, panels, activities, and other surprises, go to www.bhff.org. There you can also register and purchase tickets.
The W Hotel is located at 6250 Hollywood Blvd. All films will be screened around the corner at the Montalban Theater, 1615 Vine St. Visit the website at www.hbff.org.
Gail can be reached at gail@hollywoodbychoice.com
