The Countdown to HBFF 2025 Begins!
HBFF Film Festival Screenings will be held at Harmony Gold Preview House
located at 7655 W. Sunset Boulevard Los Angeles, California
Festival Screenings | Thursday, October 16 - Sunday, October 19 | Location - Harmony Gold Preview House
The Hollywood Black Film Festival (HBFF) will present a diverse lineup of feature films, short films, student films, documentaries, and web/digital content from emerging and established filmmakers—not only from the United States but from around the world. Our programming powerfully reflects Black creativity, culture, and storytelling, providing audiences with a memorable cinematic experience that spans genres, themes, and perspectives.
Opening Night | Wednesday, October 15 | Red Carpet Arrivals @ 6pm | Film Begins @ 7pm | Location - TBA
The Opening Night of the Hollywood Black Film Festival is a star-studded red-carpet media event that celebrates the brilliance and diversity of Black storytelling in cinema. Celebrities, industry executives, acclaimed filmmakers, and members of the Hollywood creative community came together in a glamorous display of talent and artistry. This amazing event is a celebration of cinema, community and collaboration. The evening’s screening is followed by a gala reception filled with networking, live entertainment, and a shared passion for elevating Black voices in the industry.
Closing Night | Sunday, October 19 | Red Carpet Arrivals @ 6pm | Film Begins @ 7pm | Location - Harmony Gold Preview House
Closing Night at the Hollywood Black Film Festival wraps up in style with an amazing screening and afterparty that brings the festival community together to celebrate a week of groundbreaking storytelling. Our filmmakers, actors, and industry creatives get together for a final showcase of cinematic talent and will mingle afterwards to network and relax with new friends in a relaxed, upbeat atmosphere filled with music, dancing, and food. It’s the perfect culmination that allows us to toast and celebrate Black storytelling in Hollywood.
HBFF Awards Brunch | Sunday, October 19 | 11:00am - 1pm | Location - TBA
Join us for the 2025 Awards Brunch, the grand finale of an exciting five-day celebration of screenwriters and filmmakers! This lively and relaxed event honors the exceptional achievements and creative contributions of our community. Attendees will enjoy brunch, network, and celebrate the talent and dedication behind the films showcased during the festival.
The Hollywood Black Film Festival is a juried competition led by esteemed industry executives. Films screened during the festival compete for prestigious awards, including Best Narrative Feature, Best Short Film, Best Documentary, Best Student Film, and Best Web Series Pilot or Episode. The HBFF Storyteller Competition highlights excellence in screenwriting.
The Awards Brunch not only celebrates these remarkable accomplishments but also features the presentation of the distinguished HBFF Heritage Award. This honor is given to an individual whose inspiring body of work exemplifies the trailblazing spirit of HBFF founder Tanya Kersey, serving as a beacon of inspiration to peers and colleagues. This is private invitation only event.