LOS ANGELES, (May 22, 2024) – The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) today announced its 2024 Talks Series lineup, featuring conversations and panels with industry-leading directors, producers, and talent, including Nia Long, Meagan Good, and more. The 28th annual ABFF will take place in Miami Beach June 12-16 and will be available to a global audience June 17 – 24 on ABFF PLAY (https://abffplay.com/).
In addition, the ABFF Comedy Show will be returning this year on Friday evening, June 14 with host Janelle James from ABC’s “Abbott Elementary.” Emerging stand-up comedians Alfred Kainga, Anthony Oakes, Apple Brown Betty, Mason King, and Rashaun Reese will take the 2024 ABFF Comedy Show stage to bring an evening full of laughter.
“We are thrilled to announce a robust lineup of conversations from industry leading professionals across film, television, music, and more,” said NICE CROWD President Nicole Friday. “The Talk Series is a unique first hand experience for all festival goers to hear from industry leaders and truly our favorite part about this festival experience.”
Highlights include an exclusive first look of “Tyler Perry’s Divorce in the Black” with film stars Meagan Good and Cory Hardrict presented by Amazon MGM Studios, “UnPrisoned” panel following the world premiere with Kerry Washington and Tracy McMillan presented by Onyx Collective; Money & Mindfulness: an intimate conversation with Nia Long presented by Ally, “Friday Night Vibes Goes Off the Field with All American and All American: Homecoming” a conversation with Bre-Z, Daniel Ezra, Michael Evans Behling, Geffri Maya, and Cory Hardrict presented by Warner Bros. Discovery, an exclusive sneak peek at the second season of Hulu’s “Reasonable Doubt” with Raamla Mohamed, Emayatzy Corinealdi and McKinley Freeman presented by Onyx Collective, and the “Black & Unlimited Fatherhood Project” conversation on the joys and challenges of being a Black father in the entertainment world with Lance Gross, Carl Jones and David E. Talbert presented by Walmart.
The ABFF’s Talks Series complements previously announced programming which includes narrative and documentary official film selections, exclusive spotlight screenings and world premieres, sneak peaks and red-carpet premieres.
Highly anticipated yearly events that were previously announced include:
The 27th HBO Short Film Award Showcase featuring five shorts from emerging filmmakers who compete for the prestigious award
Best of the ABFF Awards, hosted by three-time Emmy award nominee Dondré Whitfield, where the 2024 independent film awards and talent contest winners will be presented
A new program celebrating the careers of extraordinary Black artists, kicking off this year with Retrospective: Celebrating the Legacy of Denzel Washington program
The live festival concludes on Sunday, June 16 with its annual ABFF Community Day in partnership with the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau as part of its commitment to inform, educate and provide opportunities in the entertainment industry to the local community. The event is free and open to all South Florida residents.
All ABFF live events are held in and around Miami Beach including the New World Center, the Miami Beach Convention Center, The Fillmore, and The Betsy Hotel, including experiences presented by Cadillac and Hoorae Media, an independent media production company formed by Issa Rae.
Following is the schedule of live and virtual 2024 ABFF Talks Series events to date. For times, locations and more details, visit www.ABFF.com.
ABFF Live Talks Series Events June 12-16, 2023
Thursday, June 13, 2024:
It’s All Location, Location, Location Presented by Fulton Films (GA) OfficeFilm, TV and Digital producers, actors and directors are all descending on Atlanta/Fulton County to create projects thanks to the peach state’s affordable housing market, the government’s enticing film tax credits, and the year-round ideal climate. So how is it working out for some of the stars who now call the ATL home? Join the stars of the popular BET series “The OVAL”, and the social sensation leading lady of Kountry Wayne’s skits on YouTube to hear why they chose to Live, Work, Play and Stay in Fulton County, GA, and why they encourage other creatives to do the same.Moderator: Shaunya Chavis-RuckerPanelists: Javon Johnson, Kaye Singleton, Rolonda “Rogirl” Rochelle
Navigating the Pathways to RepresentationPresented by WMEThis panel brings together the agent and manager perspectives from WME and Color Creative to provide insights and expertise to creatives and industry professionals. Our panelists will discuss the ecosystem of representation from their respective roles, the intersection of their services, and the importance of collaboration and advocating for their clients.Panelists: Eric Darnell (Agent, Motion Picture Literary, WME), Chelsea Dern (Agent, Scripted TV Literary, WME) and Ashley Calloway (Manager and Producer, ColorCreative)Moderator: Antonio Hairston (VP, Recruiting and Diversity Outreach, WME)
UnPrisoned (Season 2 World Premiere) with Kerry WashingtonPresented by Onyx Collective, ABC Signature, HuluJoin the world premiere screening of the second season of Hulu’s heartfelt dramedy “UnPrisoned,” starring Kerry Washington and Delroy Lindo, followed by a fireside chat with executive producers Kerry Washington and Tracy McMillan. In season two, the Alexander family is still a mess. Paige’s therapy practice is in trouble, Finn’s anxiety is through the roof, Edwin is still figuring out how to get his life together outside of prison, and their relationships are more complicated than ever. The family needs help, and it’s time to call in a professional – OTHER than Paige. The Alexanders turn to a “family radical healing coach,” who throws out all the rules to free them of the issues, old wounds and family secrets holding them back.Panelists: Kerry Washington (EP/Star) and Tracy McMillan (Creator/EP)
NBCU LAUNCH Talks: The Art of Content Acquisitions at NBCUniversalPresented by Comcast NBCUniversalNBCU executives will demystify the acquisition process from pitch to final delivery, discuss the type of content they seek, and share best practices on pitching your projects. They will also provide insight into the company’s acquisitions strategy across its television and film portfolio, including Peacock and Universal Pictures. During the panel, the executives will also share how they secured projects such as “The Continental: From the World of John Wick” and “Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul.”Panelists: Robert Baltazar, Britney Williams, Tony Ducret
Money and Mindfulness: A Conversation with Nia Long Presented by AllyAlly will host an intimate one one-on-one conversation on money & mindfulness with Award-winning actress Nia Long. Learn more about her journey and the financial lessons of life, and the business, she has learned picked up along the way. Moderator: Jack Howard
Sonic Force: Storytelling Through Voice Acting Presented by MetaThe voice of your project or brand, whether expressed through film, podcasts, TV, or social media reels, communicates your story. Bringing this voice to life ultimately falls to the content creator’s choice of voice actor(s). With carefully guided direction, the voice actor becomes a powerful means for establishing your story concept from pitch to fundraising, to production and advertising. Daughters of Eve Media in conjunction with the Society of Voice Arts and Sciences will explore the ways filmmakers and content creators can enrich their storytelling—and leverage their marketing power—by fully envisioning the endgame before reaching the post-production phase and highlighting the critical value of diverse voices. Moderators: Dr. Michele Prettyman and Terri Prettyman Bowles, Daughters of Eve MediaPanelists: Joan Baker, author of “Secrets of Voice-over Success,” and Emmy Award-winning producer Rudy Gaskins, founders of the Society of Voice Arts and Sciences, the Voice Arts Awards, and the That’s Voiceover Career Expo Dave Fennoy (Voice Arts Award winner known as the voice of Hulu, the NAACP Awards, and countless movie trailers and commercials).
Lights, Camera, Access: A Director’s JourneyPresented by Warner Bros. DiscoveryStep into the world of cinematic mastery with our Director’s Craft Workshop, where imagination meets technique and creativity knows no bounds! Whether you’re a budding filmmaker looking to hone your skills or a seasoned director seeking fresh inspiration, our Director’s Craft Workshop is designed to ignite your passion for storytelling and elevate your craft to new heights. Join us for an unforgettable experience that will leave you empowered, inspired, and ready to take on the world of cinema like never before!Moderator: Bevy SmithPanelist: Rashaad Ernesto Green
Tyler Perry’s Divorce in the Black: An Exclusive First Look with film stars Meagan Good and Cory HardrictPresented by Amazon MGM Studios“Tyler Perry’s Divorce in the Black” follows Ava (Meagan Good), a young bank professional who is devastated when her husband Dallas (Cory Hardrict) abandons a marriage she is determined to fight for until fate intervenes, revealing Dallas’ wicked deeds that have trashed their marriage, and once upon a time sabotaged Ava’s destiny to be loved by her true soulmate. During this conversation, film stars Meagan Good and Cory Hardrict will sit down together to discuss the film, and to give an exclusive first look at the trailer for the first time, anywhere. The film will be released on Prime Video on July 11.Moderator: Latasha Gillespie
Uncensored Live w/ TrinaPresented by TV OneDescription: TV One’s hit show “Uncensored” explores the lives of some of today’s most notable personalities as they provide first-hand accounts of their success and the obstacles they faced throughout their careers. Experience the same raw and unfiltered storytelling in an exclusive “Uncensored” LIVE edition featuring rapper, producer, TV/radio personality, entrepreneur and now author Trina. As one of the most successful female Hip Hop artists in history, Trina continues to break barriers more than two decades into her legendary career. From her early days on the Miami music scene to achieving global stardom, Trina will share stories about the music industry, the role of women in hip-hop, her cultural impact, personal loss, and more. Moderated in conversation by comedian, writer, and director Chris Spencer, listen as both trailblazers share their unique journeys from adversity to achievement. Moderator: Chris Spencer
Friday, June 14, 2024:
Meet the Streaming Innovation Alliance Presented by the Motion Picture Association (MPA)Meet the united voice of the streaming community – driving a new era of creativity, opportunity, diversity, value, and choice in home and mobile entertainment. SIA fights for smart policies that will continue to meet audiences where they are and propel streaming innovation forward. Alliance members include groundbreaking platforms providing opportunities and access to Black and historically marginalized content creators. Join John Gibson, Vice President for External and Multicultural Affairs at the Motion Picture Association for an engaging conversation with the creative forces behind alliance founding streamers AfroLandTV, AmericaNU, ForUsByUs Network, and VAULT Access. Delve into a world of diverse storytelling and learn how these platforms are reshaping the streaming landscape for independent content creators. Moderator: John GibsonPanelists: Omarr Salgado, AmericaNu; Michael Maponga, AfroLandTV; J. Alexander Martin, ForUsByUs Network; and Kenneth Giffords, VAULT Access
Court is Back in Session: Season Two of Hulu’s “Reasonable Doubt” Presented by Onyx Collective, ABC Signature, HuluJoin “Reasonable Doubt” creator Raamla Mohamed and stars Emayatzy Corinealdi and McKinley Freeman as they unpack the shocking twists of Season One and reveal an exclusive sneak peek from the highly anticipated second season, premiering August 22 on Hulu. After trying to heal from her wounds from last season’s arduous trial and deadly affair, Jax Stewart is attempting to get her life back on track. That is until one of her closest friends reveals that she has killed her husband. Her friend is claiming self-defense, but an uncompromising prosecutor thinks otherwise. Needing all the help she can get, Jax brings in an ambitious defense attorney to lead the case, but things get tense very quickly. Can Jax defend her friend, save her marriage, and protect her energy while being catapulted into the biggest case of her career? Or will she lose it all? Panelists: Series stars Emayatzy Corinealdi (“Jax”) and McKinley Freeman (“Lewis”), alongside Raamla Mohamed (Creator/EP/Showrunner)
Pitch Perfect: Promoting Yourself & Connecting With OthersPresented by TV OneJoin us for an insightful and fun discussion on the art of pitching yourself and making meaningful connections. In today’s competitive landscape, the ability to effectively promote your uniqueness and establish valuable, long-term relationships is essential for continued success. We will share practical tips, real-world experiences, and proven strategies to help you master the art of pitching and networking. From crafting an impactful elevator pitch to navigating networking events with confidence to pitching virtually, this discussion will equip you with the tools and techniques needed to stand out and forge meaningful connections in any setting. Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking to enhance your networking skills or a newcomer eager to make a memorable impression, this panel promises valuable insights and actionable advice to propel your pitching and networking game to the next level! Panelist: Austyn Biggers
Insuring Your FuturePresented by Northwestern MutualJoin us for cocktails and conversations. Hear thought-provoking insights about tools that can help protect your income—and leave a legacy for your family. This panel discussion with Northwestern Mutual financial advisors Julian Pouncy, MBA and Mshon K. Pulliam, Sr. CLTC® will be followed by a complimentary happy hour and one-on-one advising. Let us help you build a legacy plan!Moderator: Monique IdlettPanelists: Julian Pouncy, MBA and Mshon K. Pulliam, Sr. CLTC®
Friday Night Vibes Goes Off the Field with All American and All American: HomecomingPresented by Warner Bros. DiscoveryWarner Bros. Television Group presents an ALL-AMERICAN franchise takeover with cast members from ALL-AMERICAN and ALL-AMERICAN: HOMECOMING for an intimate conversation about celebrating and shaping Black culture through family, sports and education.Hosts: Nina Parker, KevOnStagePanelists: Daniel Ezra, Michael Evans Behling, Bre-Z, Geffri Maya, Cory Hardrict
Saturday, June 15, 2024:
Uplifting Talent and Stories from Untapped SpacesPresented by Comcast NBCUDescription: This panel will spotlight the partnership between Universal Filmed Entertainment Group (UFEG) and Monkeypaw Productions and their shared commitment to creating access and discovering new talent. This discussion will explore the various strategies championed by UFEG and Monkeypaw Productions, both above and below-the-line, including the Universal Filmmakers Project ‘NO DRAMA’, Universal Below-the-Line Traineeship, and Universal Composers Initiative. Through this engaging discussion, we hope to inspire those in the audience as to how these programs are reshaping the industry’s talent, workforce, and creative innovation. Moderator: Candace AfiaPanelists: Keisha Senter, Emerlynn Lampitoc, K. Nicole Mills
Black & Unlimited Fatherhood Project – Celebrity ConversationPresented by WalmartA blend of perspectives in both fatherhood and the tv and film industry; meaningful discussions on the joys and challenges of being a Black father in the entertainment world.Moderator: David E.TalbertPanelists: Lance Gross, Carl Jones
Music For Media: Secrets of a Successful CollaborationPresented by New World SymphonyMichael Abels is the Pulitzer Prize-winning composer of scores for the Jordan Peele films GET OUT, US and NOPE, and is the first black composer to score a scripted series for LucasFilm (“Star Wars: The Acolyte” – Disney+). In this session, Abels discusses his process, his journey through Hollywood, the relationship between composer and director/showrunner, and provides insights to achieving an evocative score for any size project. Host: Michael Abels
ABFF Retrospective: Celebrating the Legacy of Denzel WashingtonJourney with Denzel Washington through the highlights of his illustrious career, as he talks about Hollywood, his evolution as an actor, director, producer and his love for the work of August Wilson.Moderator: Chaz Ebert
For festival information, including media credentials and how to obtain an ABFF pass, visit www.abff.com. Follow @ABFF on Twitter and @AmericanBlackFilmFestival on Instagram and Facebook.
Since its inception, the highly anticipated American Black Film Festival has premiered the work and supported the careers of many of today’s most successful filmmakers, actors, writers and stand-up comedians and is recognized as a standard-bearer of excellence for Black creativity. Continuing its legacy to empower Black artists and showcase a wide range of entertainment content will feature studio premieres, independent films, master classes, panels, talent showcases, networking and hospitality events.
ABFF sponsors and partners to date are Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO® (Founding), Cadillac, Comcast NBCUniversal, Walmart, Ally (Presenting), City of Miami Beach, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), Sony Pictures Entertainment, TV One Networks, American Airlines, IMDbPro, Meta, Onyx Collective, Simply (Official), Amazon MGM Studios, Miami Beach Visitors and Convention Authority (MBVCA), Motion Picture Association (MPA), New World Symphony, STARZ, Fulton Films, Procter & Gamble, Northwestern Mutual (Supporting), A&E Network, Getty Images, NYFA, GLAAD, WME, Digital Media Systems, Netflix, Planned Parenthood, UTA, Viarae (Industry), Variety, LA Times (Media).
About NICE CROWD NICE CROWD, formerly ABFF Ventures, is a Los Angeles-based live events company that develops and produces properties in the arts, entertainment, lifestyle and wellness industries that showcase BIPOC culture and talent. The Company’s tentpole event is the American Black Film Festival, founded in 1997.
To learn more about NICE CROWD events, visit www.nicecrowd.com.