The American Black Film Festival is heading to Los Angeles for its 31st edition, which takes place May 20-23, 2027.
ABFF 2027 will set up shop across the greater Los Angeles area, making stops at AMC’s Grove location for film screenings and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures for marquee events. The SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills will serve as the hub for industry programming, and the Original Farmers Market will host activations and community experiences.
“For more than three decades, we’ve built ABFF with the belief that access can change the trajectory of a career and that creating space for new voices strengthens our entire industry,” said Jeff Friday, founder of ABFF and CEO of festival coordinator NICE CROWD. “As we look to the future, our responsibility is to keep pushing forward, expanding what’s possible, and creating greater opportunities for the next generation of storytellers. That’s what this next chapter represents.”
The 31st edition brings with it new programming, including ABFF First Look: The Studio Showcase, which platforms studios, independent filmmakers and streamers to present upcoming projects. ABFF Sports, which focuses on the intersection of sports, media and entertainment, as well as the noncompetitive film section Crossroads, are likewise coming to ABFF for the first time in 2027.
“ABFF has always been defined by the people who come together and the sense of community we’ve built over the years,” said Nicole Friday, President of NICE CROWD. “As we look ahead, we want to build on that foundation, creating new opportunities for filmmakers, audiences, industry leaders, and partners to connect while preserving the spirit and sense of belonging that have always made ABFF special.”
Submissions for the 31st ABFF are now open. See the submission categories below.
U.S. Narrative Feature – A competitive section showcasing feature-length narrative films directed or written by filmmakers of African descent working within the United States. Representing the cornerstone of ABFF’s commitment to discovery, the section highlights distinctive voices, original storytelling, and compelling artistic vision. Selected films compete for the Grand Jury Prize, Directing Award, and Performance Award.
International Narrative Feature – A competitive section dedicated to feature-length narrative films from across the global Black diaspora. The section celebrates distinctive storytelling voices and cinematic perspectives from outside the United States. Selected films compete for the Grand Jury Prize for International Narrative Feature.
Documentary Feature – A competitive section presenting feature-length documentaries directed by filmmakers of African descent. The section showcases nonfiction storytelling distinguished by cinematic craft, insight, and cultural relevance. Selected films compete for the Grand Jury Prize for Documentary Feature.
Crossroads – New Section for 2027 – A non-competitive showcase of narrative and documentary features that explore identity, culture, community, resilience, and belonging through distinctive American experiences. Open to filmmakers of all backgrounds, Crossroads highlights work that aligns with ABFF’s cultural spirit while offering fresh perspectives and meaningful opportunities for connection.
Episodic Series – A competitive section showcasing episodic storytelling created by filmmakers of African descent. The section highlights compelling serialized narratives and innovative approaches to long-form storytelling. Selected works compete for the Grand Jury Prize for Episodic Series.
Voices of Culture – Selection by invitation or internal curation only – A non-competitive showcase of short-form work by filmmakers of African descent whose films expand and enrich contemporary conversations around culture, identity, and community. Reflecting the breadth of the global Black experience, the section highlights distinctive voices across genres, forms, and storytelling traditions.
The ABFF 9:16 Microdrama Project – A non-competitive showcase of original vertical microdrama series created by storytellers of African descent. Dedicated to celebrating emerging creators and new forms of mobile-first storytelling, the section highlights original serialized short-form content from creators working at the forefront of the medium. Selected projects demonstrate strong episodic momentum, emotional immediacy, and a clear command of serialized storytelling.
HBO® Short Film Award – Now in its 30th year, the HBO® Short Film Award remains a cornerstone of ABFF’s commitment to discovering and elevating emerging filmmakers. Each year, five finalists are selected to screen at the festival before a distinguished jury. As an Academy Award-qualifying award, the recipient of the HBO® Short Film Award becomes qualified for consideration in the Live Action Short Film category of the 100th Academy Awards®, subject to all Academy rules and requirements. Submissions for the HBO® Short Film Award will open at a later date, with additional details to be announced.
