North Carolina Black Film Festival Celebrates 24 Years in Wilmington

North Carolina Black Film Festival Returns to Wilmington for 24th Year

WILMINGTON, N.C. – The highly anticipated 24th annual North Carolina Black Film Festival is set to kick off this Friday in Wilmington, bringing a diverse showcase of Black storytellers and filmmakers to the area. The three-day event promises a rich cinematic experience, featuring a wide range of genres and highlighting narratives often overlooked by mainstream platforms.

Brandon Bigby Hickman, a key organizer of the festival, recently spoke with WECT about the significance of the event. He emphasized the festival’s crucial role in providing a platform for filmmakers to share their unique stories with audiences who might not otherwise have the opportunity to see them on the big screen. “This is a chance for you to tell your story in audiences that probably would never get to see your story,” Hickman explained.

A Celebration of Black Storytelling

The festival, running from Friday, May 1st, will feature an impressive lineup of shorts, animation, documentaries, and family-friendly films. Wilmington, known for its warm hospitality, has been chosen as the ideal location to host this celebration of Black artistry. Hickman highlighted the welcoming atmosphere, stating, “We like to say it is Wilmington’s hospitality. We get to sit around, enjoy some beverages, enjoy some great food and enjoy some great film.”

Honoring Young Talent with the Donna Green Award

A highlight of the festival is the presentation of the Donna Green Award, a prestigious recognition named after a former board member. This year, the award goes to the exceptionally talented 11-year-old Imani Summer for her film, “The Babysitters v.s. The Cookie Monsters.” Hickman expressed excitement about recognizing such promising young talent.

The youth film block, featuring Summer’s film and others, will screen on Saturday at 10 a.m. and is open to the public free of charge.

Festival Details & Ticket Information

Screenings will primarily take place at Jengo’s Playhouse and Gna’s Event Hall on Friday, May 1st, and Saturday, May 2nd. Sunday, May 3rd, screenings will be held at the Cameron Art Museum.

• Individual Film Blocks: $10
• All-Access Weekend Pass: $100

For tickets, film ratings, and a complete schedule, visit https://blackartsalliance.org. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the power and diversity of Black storytelling at the 24th annual North Carolina Black Film Festival!