%20(2).png)
What is the Hollywood Black Film Festival?
The Hollywood Black Film Festival (HBFF) is an annual celebration of Black cinema, bringing together established filmmakers, film and TV stars, writers, directors, industry executives, emerging artists, and audiences from around the world.
Renowned for attracting industry icons such as Sidney Poitier, Forest Whitaker, John Singleton, Tim Story, Malcolm Lee, Bill Duke, Devon Franklin, George Tillman Jr., Sanaa Lathan, Loretta Devine, Debra Martin Chase, and Antwone Fisher, HBFF has become a creative hub for the Black Hollywood community.
The festival’s mission is to support and elevate the careers of emerging and established Black filmmakers through public exhibitions, competitions, educational programming, and networking opportunities. HBFF also plays an integral role in discovering and launching independent films and filmmakers, connecting them with the industry, press, and the general public.
When is the Hollywood Black Film Festival?
October 15-19, 2025
Where will the festival take place?
Hollywood, California
Where is the host hotel?
W Hollywood Hotel
6250 Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood, California 90028
323-798-1300
Where will film screenings be held?
Harmony Gold Preview House
7655 W. Sunset Boulevard
Los Angeles, California 90046
Where will the Infotainment Conference be held?
W Hollywood Hotel
Who can attend HBFF?
HBFF is open to everyone—from film industry professionals to general film enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a filmmaker, actor, writer, student, or simply a fan of Black cinema,
there’s something for you at HBFF!
​
Where do I pick up my tickets or festival pass?
Festival badges can be picked up starting Thursday, October 16th at the W Hollywood Hotel. Festival passes and tickets are sold online.
Can screening tickets and panel tickets be purchased at the festival?
All tickets will be available for purchase online. On-site ticket sales may be available.
HBFF IS MORE THAN JUST A FILM FESTIVAL!
​
What types of events take place besides film screenings?
-
Infotainment Conference – A series of panels, workshops, and discussions covering topics like film production, distribution, marketing, TV and film writing, acting, and pitching projects to industry professionals.
-
Kids Fest - A free one-day event designed to inspire and celebrate our youth, this exciting event will bring together 300 young
people and their families from various communities and youth organizations to enjoy a jam-packed day of fun activities, entertainment, and education. -
Picthathon - Pitchathon is a groundbreaking platform designed to amplify diverse voices in film and television. This one-of-a-kind event invites content creators to present their ideas and pitch their projects to a panel of industry executives, who will offer constructive feedback and valuable suggestions on how to shape your project into a marketable success.
-
Storyteller Live Showcase – A live reading of the finalists in the HBFF Storyteller Competition.
-
Monologue Slam – A showcase where actors perform live in front of an audience and industry judges.
-
Industry Marketplace & Job Fair – A free, one-day event open to the public, featuring entertainment industry companies, networking opportunities, and recruitment sessions with major studios, networks, and production companies.
-
Festival Parties & Networking Events – Exclusive social gatherings where attendees can connect with industry peers, executives, and talent.
When will the festival lineup and schedule be announced?
The festival screening schedule will be announced in July 2025.
Are the films rated?
Festival films are not rated by the Motion Picture Association (MPA). However, content descriptions will be provided in the HBFF Film Guide and online to help attendees make informed choices.
When & Where is the Storyteller Live Showcase?
Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the W Hotel. Time TBD.
​
When & Where is the HBFF Industry Marketplace & Job Fair?
Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the W Hotel. Time TBD.
When & Where is the HBFF Kids Fest?
Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the Harmony Gold Preview House, 11:00am-2pm.
​
How far is the Harmony Gold Preview House from the W Hotel?
Logistically it's 2 miles or 8 minutes away, but traffic conditions may vary and could take 15 minutes or more.
When is Pitchathon?
Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the W Hotel
When is the Monologue Slam?
Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the W Hotel?
When and Where is the Festival Opening Night Screening & Gala?
Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 7:00 pm. Location TBD.
When and Where is the Festival Closing Night Screening & Gala?
Sunday, October 19, 2025, 7:00 pm. Location TBD.
Can I record (audio or video) at the Infotainment Conference panels?
No. HBFF’s Infotainment Conference is fully copyrighted, and audio/video recording is strictly prohibited. Photography, however, is allowed.
​
Please note that dates and times are subject to change.
How far is the airport from the w Hotel Hollywood?
LAX is 14 miles or 40 minutes from the W Hollywood Hotel.
Burbank Airport is 8 miles or 20 minutes from the W Hollywood Hotel.
​
Where should I stay if I’m coming from out of town?
The W Hollywood Hotel is the official host hotel.
6250 Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood, California 90028
323-798-1300
​
Additional accommodations in the area.
Holiday Inn Express Hollywood Walk of Fame Hotel
1921 Highland Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90068
(323) 850-8151
Special Hotel Rates available until August 1st
Code: HBFF 15 Annual Film Festival
*Holiday Inn Express is approximately 1 mile or 6 mins from the W Hollywood Hotel and about 6 miles or 10 mins from Harmony Gold Preview House.
​
How should I dress?
California casual during the day; dressy casual for after hours events; dressy evening for the Opening Night Gala and the Closing Night Reception. Please check our website before you travel for more details on other networking and themed events.
​​
How can I make the most of my festival experience?
-
Network, network, network!
-
Update your digital presence. Ensure your IMDb page, LinkedIn, and social
-
media profiles are current.
-
Engage with attendees. Participate in panels, workshops, and networking events.
-
Take advantage of photo ops! You never know who you’ll meet.
​
What if I have more questions?
Email us at Info@TheHBFF.com for further inquiries.
​When and where is the Hollywood Black Film Festival 2025?
The 15th Hollywood Black Film Festival (HBFF) will take place October 15 – 19, 2025, in Hollywood, California.
Do I have to be Black or of African heritage to submit a film to the Hollywood Black Film Festival?
No. Submissions from all other artists will be considered for our invitational program
How do I submit my film?
All submissions must be made through FilmFreeway
Submissions will not be accepted outside this platform.
​
Who is authorized to submit a film for consideration?
The person submitting a film for consideration—whether the writer, director, or producer—must affirm that they are authorized to submit the content.
​
SUBMISSIONS
​
What are the submission deadlines:
-
Early Bird Deadline is March 29, 2025
-
Regular Deadline is April 27, 2025
-
Late Deadline is May 17, 2025
​
What are the submission fees?
Early Bird submission fee is $45 (submission received on or before March 29, 2025)
Regular submission fee is $55 (submissions received March 30 - April 27, 2025)
Late/Final submission fee is $65 (submissions received April 28 - May 17, 2025)
​
Can I submit multiple projects?
Yes, however, each submission requires a separate entry form and entry fee.
​
Is there a student rate?
Yes.
-
$30 February 24-April 27, 2025
-
$40 April 28-May 17, 2025
​
Can submission fees be waived?
No. While we recognize the financial difficulties that some filmmakers face, submission fees are necessary to help defray the cost of operating the festival
​
ELIGIBILITY & CATEGORIES
​
Narrative Feature Film:
Length: 60-120 minutes
Completion Date: After January 1, 2024
Eligibility: At least one key creative (writer, director, or producer) must be Black or of African heritage. Films not meeting this requirement will be considered for the invitational program if indicated in the application.
Short Film:
Length: No longer than 45 minutes
Completion Date: After January 1, 2024
Eligibility: At least one key creative must be Black or of African heritage. Films not meeting this requirement will be considered for the invitational program if indicated in the application.
Documentary:
Length: No longer than 75 minutes
Completion Date: After January 1, 2024
Eligibility: At least one key creative must be Black or of African heritage. Films not meeting this requirement will be considered for the invitational program if indicated in the application.
Student Film:
Completion Date: While enrolled as a full- or part-time student
Eligibility: At least one key creative must be Black or of African heritage. A valid student ID must be included, there is no invitational program for this category.
​
Film Diaspora:
Eligibility: Filmmakers from outside the U.S. or Canada. At least one key creative must be Black or of African heritage. Films not meeting this requirement will be considered for the invitational program if indicated in the application.
Narrative Feature Films: 60-120 minutes, completed after January 1, 2024
Short Films: No longer than 30 minutes, completed after January 1, 2024
Web/Digital Series:
Completion Date: Within the 2024-2025 calendar year
Eligibility: At least one key creative must be Black or of African heritage. Films not meeting this requirement will be considered for the invitational program if indicated in the application.
Submission: Up to three webisodes from the same series, each not exceeding 20 minutes.
​
We also accept submissions from filmmakers who reside outside the U.S. and Canada for our World Cinema or African Diaspora Invitational Program.
​
FILM FORMAT & SCREENING REQUIREMENTS
​
My film will not be finished by the submission deadline. Can I submit a rough cut for consideration?
Yes, but if selected, your final version must be submitted by the required deadline.
​
Can I submit a film that was not shot on film?
Yes.
​
Will HBFF accept non-English films?
Yes, but your film must be dubbed in English or have English subtitles.
​
What formats are accepted for screening?
If selected, films may be screened on the following format(s):
DCP, additional formats may become available. Please check back for updates.
Will you screen my submission copy sent to Film Freeway?
No. Submission copies cannot be used for festival screenings.
​
SCREENING POLICIES
​
Can I submit a film that has been screened at other festivals?
Yes. However, preference is given to World, U.S., or West Coast premieres. Additionally, we enforce a 60-day exclusivity window, meaning your film cannot screen in Los Angeles from August 20 – October 19, 2025. If you violate this policy, HBFF reserves the right to remove your film from the lineup.
​
Will I get my screener back?
Yes. Screeners will be available for pick-up during or immediately after the festival. Instructions with the date and time for pickup will be provided. If you are unable to attend the festival, we will return your screener only if you provide a self-addressed stamped shipping package. For special shipping arrangements, please ensure they are made at least two weeks prior to the festival
SELECTION PROCESS
​
How are films selected?
Films are selected by the HBFF Programming team.
How will I be notified?
Selected finalists will be notified via email on or before July 25, 2025. Please ensure that TheHBFF.com emails are not blocked by spam filters.
When will I receive my screening schedule?
Screening schedules will be emailed on or before July 31, 2025.
AWARDS & PRIZES
​
Who are the competition judges?
Our jury panel is composed of entertainment industry executives, professionals, and filmmakers.
What prizes are awarded?
Prizes will be awarded in the following categories:
-
Narrative Feature
-
Short
-
Documentary
-
Student
-
Web & Digital
-
African Diaspora
Additional awards will recognize:
-
Best Director
-
Best Writer
-
Best Actor
-
Best Editor
-
Best Cinematography
-
Best Sound
​​
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
​
Where will film screenings be held?
Film Festival Screenings will be held at Harmony Gold Preview House, 7655 W. Sunset Boulevard., Los Angeles, California
Do filmmakers get paid for screenings?
No. HBFF does not pay screening fees for film submissions.
When will I be notified of my acceptance status?:
Filmmakers will be notified of their acceptance status on or before July 18, 2025.
​
If my film is accepted to screen at HBFF when will I receive my screening schedule?
On or before July 25, 2025.
​
Will I receive complimentary tickets for my screening?
Yes. Each film accepted to screen at the festival will receive two (2) complimentary all-access festival passes and four (4) complimentary screening tickets.
​
How can I buy additional screening tickets?
Ticket sales will be available online July 1st.
​
Please monitor the festival website for any updates or changes to the information or the dates provided.
​
Still have questions?
Email us at programming@TheHBFF.com.
What is the HBFF Storyteller Competition?
​
The Hollywood Black Film Festival Storyteller Competition was established to discover and develop Black screenwriters and create opportunities for them.
​
Every submitted script is read by an industry professional (screenwriter, story editor, development/acquisition executive, etc.) who provides coverage on a variety of criteria and an overall score.
​
The ten highest-scoring scripts become semi-finalists and are reread and rescored by a different industry professional. The ten semi-finalists are invited to the festival to participate in an exclusive coaching session with the writing mentor, Harrison Reiner. Three finalists chosen from the ten storyteller semi-finalists will have the privilege of seeing a portion of their work come to life in the Storyteller Live Showcase at the festival. The Showcase is directed by a renowned director and features professional actors.
The award for the best script is handed out during the festival's Awards Brunch.
Please read the complete rules & terms for the storyteller competition before submitting your script. By submitting your entry, you confirm that you have read and agree to the submission requirements. Failure to adhere to the competition rules may result in disqualification.​
When and where is the Storyteller Live Showcase?
Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the Hollywood W Hotel, time TBD.
Do I have to be Black or of African heritage to submit a script to the Hollywood Black Film Festival?
Yes.
How do I submit my script?
All submissions must be made through FilmFreeway
Submissions will not be accepted outside this platform.
Who is authorized to submit a script for consideration?
Only the writer(s).
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Submissions may be written in any genre. They must be properly formatted and adhere to industry norms and standards. For guidance, refer to The Complete Guide to Standard Script Formats by Hillis Cole and Judith Haag or any other reputable industry reference.
-
A feature-length screenplay should not exceed 120 pages.
-
A half-hour pilot or episodic script should not exceed 25 pages.
-
A half-hour short film should not exceed 45 pages
-
A one-hour teleplay or script should not exceed 45 pages.
The cover page of your submission must not include any identifying information about the writer(s). DO NOT INCLUDE the writer’s name, contact information, Writers Guild of America registration number, or copyright number. This information should not appear anywhere within the body of your submission. Submissions containing prohibited information will be disqualified.
SUBMISSION FEES & DEADLINES
What are the submission deadlines:
-
The early submission deadline is March 29, 2025.
-
The regular submission deadline is April 27, 2025.
-
The final submission deadline is May 17, 2025.
What are the submission fees?
-
Early Bird submission fee is $50 (submissions received on or before February 24 - March 29th, 2025)
-
Regular submission fee is $55 (submissions received on or before March 30 - April 27, 2025)
-
Late/Final submission fee is $60 (submissions received April 28 - May 17, 2025)
​
Please be advised that all submission fees are non-refundable.
Can I submit multiple projects?
Yes, however, each submission requires a separate entry and entry fee.
Is there a student rate?
Yes. A valid copy of your student identification must be included with your submission.
-
$30 February 24-April 27, 2025 (Regular Submission)
-
$40 April 28-May 17, 2025 (Late Submission)
Can submission fees be waived?
No. While we recognize the financial difficulties that some writers face, submission fees are necessary to help defray the cost of operating the festival.
SELECTION PROCESS
How are scripts selected?
A committee of entertainment industry professionals (including writers, filmmakers, industry executives, and agents) review all submissions.
When will I be notified of my acceptance status?
Writers will be notified of their acceptance status via email on or before July 25, 2025. Please ensure that TheHBFF.com emails are not blocked by spam filters.
​
AWARDS & PRIZES
Who are the competition judges?
Our jury panel is composed of entertainment industry executives, professionals, and filmmakers.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Will I receive complimentary tickets to the festival?
Storyteller finalists will receive two (2) complimentary all-access festival passes.
​
Please monitor the festival website at www.TheHBFF.com for any updates or changes to the information or the dates provided.
Still have questions?
Email us at Storyteller@TheHBFF.com.
What is the HBFF Monologue Slam?
The Hollywood Black Film Festival Monologue Slam is an electrifying live competition that puts actors in the spotlight, performing their monologues before a dynamic panel of industry leaders—casting directors, producers, and filmmakers. Participants not only showcase their talent but also receive invaluable feedback and critiques to sharpen their performance and presentation. It's your chance to shine and make an unforgettable impression!
Where and When will This Event Take Place?
The Monologue Slam will be held at the W Hotel in Los Angeles, California, the official host hotel for the Hollywood Black Film Festival, on Saturday, October 18, 2025, time TBD.​​
Who Can Participate?
Everyone is invited to submit to participate in this event:: actors, performers, festival attendees, and the general public.
Why Participate in the Monologue Slam?
This event is designed to:
-
Open doors and create powerful opportunities for Black creatives.
-
Provide industry mentorship and instant, actionable feedback.
-
Connect participants directly with key decision-makers in film and television.
So, get ready to elevate your career and make lasting industry connections!
Is there a submission fee to perform at the Monologue Slam?
Yes. The submission fee is $40
​
How do I submit my Monologue to HBFF?​
Submissions will only be accepted through FilmFreeway.
​
How Will Participants Be Selected?
A panel of festival staff and industry professionals will review all submissions and select the final 20 participants for this event based on the following criteria:
-
Performance skills (voice, emotion, stage presence)
-
Creativity and originality
-
Clarity of vision
-
Ability to engage the audience
​
Applicants must submit the following:
-
A current headshot
-
Your résumé
-
A video recording of your selected monologue (2-3 minutes)
​​
When will the Monologue Slam open for submissions?
Submissions will open June 1, 2025, and close on July 1, 2025.
​
If you have additional questions, please contact infotainment@TheHBFFf.com.
​
We look forward to seeing your submissions and helping you take your career to the next level at HBFF 2025!
What Is Pitchathon?
Pitchathon is a groundbreaking platform designed to amplify diverse voices in film and television. This one-of-a-kind event invites content creators to present their ideas and pitch their projects to a panel of industry executives, who will offer constructive feedback and valuable suggestions on how to shape your project into a marketable success. This is not a sales event; it’s an incredible opportunity to receive expert guidance and elevate your creative vision.
​
Where Will This Event Take Place?
Pitchathon will take place at the W Hotel in Los Angeles, California, the official host hotel for the Hollywood Black Film Festival, on Saturday, October 18, 2025, time TBD.
​​​
Who Can Participate?
Everyone is invited to submit to participate in this event:: all content creators, actors, performers, festival attendees, and the general public.
​
Why Participate in the Pitchathon?
This event is designed to:
-
Open doors and create powerful opportunities for Black creatives.
-
Provide industry mentorship and instant, actionable feedback.
-
Connect participants directly with key decision-makers in film and television.
​​
So, get ready to elevate your career and make lasting industry connections!
​
Is There a Fee to Pitch at this Event?
Yes. The submission fee is $40
​
When Will Submissions Open?
Submissions will open June 1, 2025, and close on July 1, 2025.
​
How do I submit my Pitch to HBFF?​
Submissions will only be accepted through FilmFreeway.
​
What is the Application Process?
Applicants must submit the following:
-
A logline for your project (a brief 1-2 sentence summary)
-
The genre (e.g., drama, comedy, sci-fi, horror, etc.)
-
The format of your project (e.g., feature film, half-hour pilot, 1-hour series, etc.)
-
Potential distribution outlets (optional, but encouraged)
-
A potential distribution strategy (optional, but encouraged)
-
A short video pitch (2-3 minutes) OR a 1-page written pitch
​
Additional recommendations:
-
Demonstrate a clear understanding of your target audience and the current marketplace for distribution.
How Are Finalists Selected?
Finalists will be selected based on the following criteria:
-
Strength of the idea
-
Clarity of presentation
-
Marketability and originality
-
Potential for development
​​
What Happens If I’m Selected?
All applicants will be notified via email regarding their acceptance status.
If selected as one of the 20 participants, you will pitch your project live at HBFF 2025 where you will receive valuable feedback in real time from a panel of industry professionals.
​
Please note: This is an educational event only—no sales or funding will be offered. The focus is on constructive feedback to help you refine and develop your project.
​
Confidentiality & Protection of Ideas
All submitted materials will remain confidential and will be reviewed solely by festival staff. The festival is not responsible for any public disclosure of ideas, pitches, or creative content. Participants are strongly encouraged to take their own precautions to protect their intellectual property.
​
We look forward to seeing you at HBFF 2025 and supporting you on your creative journey!
​
If you have additional questions, please contact infotainment@TheHBFF.com.