Pan African Film and Arts Festival
WHY IT'S HERE
Founded in 1992 by Ayuko Babu and the late Danny Glover, the largest Black film festival in the United States, screens over 150 films from filmmakers across the African diaspora.
The Pan African Film and Arts Festival was founded in 1992 by Ayuko Babu, Danny Glover, and Ja'Net DuBois as a celebration of Black film and visual art from across the African diaspora. Held each February in Los Angeles, PAFF has grown into the largest Black film festival in the United States, screening over 150 films from filmmakers in Africa, the Caribbean, Latin America, Europe, Canada, and the United States. The festival also includes an art exhibition featuring works by Black and Brown artists, alongside panel discussions, filmmaker Q&As, and student programming. PAFF holds Academy Award qualifying status in its narrative and documentary short film categories.
Other Film Events
MVAAFF
Oak Bluffs • August
Founded in 2002, cultural anchor of Martha's Vineyard Black professional community, past attendees include Spike Lee, Ava DuVernay, and President Obama.
FILMABFF
Miami Beach • June
Founded in 1997, premier showcase for Black film creators, launched careers of Ryan Coogler and Ava DuVernay, attracts studio executives and major industry decision-makers.
FILMEssence Black Women in Hollywood
Los Angeles • March
Founded in 2008 by Essence magazine, honors Black women in film and television during awards season, past honorees include Viola Davis, Lupita Nyong'o, and Ava DuVernay, draws Hollywood executives and power players.
FILMBlackStar Film Festival
Philadelphia • August
Founded in 2012 by Maori Karmael Holmes, one of the most respected showcases of independent Black, Brown, and Indigenous filmmakers globally, with a reputation for elevating bold and experimental work.