"Basement People."
5 Reasons to Head to the American Black Film Festival This Weekend
The American Black Film Festival is celebrating its 30th anniversary in Miami Beach with celebrity appearances, world premieres, documentaries and conversations that highlight Black storytelling in all its forms.
While the festival officially opened earlier this week, there is still plenty happening through the weekend, whether you're interested in film, television, sports, music or community events. Here are five reasons to check out ABFF before it wraps up.
Brittney Griner in "The Brittney Griner Story."
“The Brittney Griner Story,” 4:30 p.m., Friday, May 29, Miami Beach Convention Center
One of the festival's marquee screenings is "The Brittney Griner Story," an ESPN documentary that follows the WNBA star's journey from basketball phenom to international headline after her detention in Russia.
The screening is followed by a conversation featuring Griner's wife, Cherelle Griner, and legendary basketball coach Dawn Staley, offering audiences a chance to hear firsthand about one of the most talked-about stories in sports in recent years.
Brown Sugar
“Brown Sugar,” 8 p.m., Friday, May 29, Soundscape Park, New World Center
Not every ABFF event requires sitting inside a dark theater.
The festival's outdoor screening of "Brown Sugar" transforms SoundScape Park into a community movie night. The 2002 romantic comedy starring Sanaa Lathan and Taye Diggs remains a fan favorite for its blend of romance, friendship and hip-hop culture.
Best of all, the screening is free and open to the public.
“Basement People,” 11 a.m. Saturday, May 30, O Cinema South Beach
ABFF has long been known as a launching pad for emerging filmmakers, and that tradition continues through its narrative features, documentaries and short-film showcases.
One Saturday highlight is "Basement People," a spotlight screening at O Cinema South Beach. The film follows a young girl navigating difficult family circumstances and offers the kind of independent storytelling that has become a festival hallmark.
Raising Kanan
“Power Book III, Raising Kanan,” 4 p.m., Saturday, May 30, Miam Beach Convention Center
ABFF isn't just about movies.
Fans of STARZ's "Power" universe can attend "Kanan's Evolution: An Inside Look at Season Five of 'Power Book III: Raising Kanan,'" which offers an exclusive preview of the upcoming season along with insights from cast and creative team members.
The event reflects the festival's growing role as a destination for television programming and industry conversations.
Community Day in Overtown
The festival concludes with its annual Community Day, Sunday, May 31, at the Historic Lyric Theater in Overtown.
Designed to make ABFF accessible to a wider audience, the free event features screenings, discussions and family-friendly programming while celebrating the festival's long-standing connection to South Florida's Black community.
For many local attendees, Community Day has become one of the most meaningful traditions of the festival.
If You Go
The American Black Film Festival continues through Sunday, May 31 at venues including the Miami Beach Convention Center, O Cinema South Beach, SoundScape Park and the historic Lyric Theater.
For tickets, schedules and additional programming information, visit ABFF.com.
