The Black Trans Short Film Festival is an annual event produced by Comfrey Films and dedicated to showcasing the stories and creativity of Black Trans/Gender Non-Conforming/Intersex (TGNCI) filmmakers. It's a space where the unique experiences, struggles, and joys of Black TGNCI lives are told on screen, giving visibility to voices that often get overlooked in mainstream media.

Every year, the festival brings together filmmakers from across the African Diaspora to share their work—whether it’s a raw personal story or an experimental approach to storytelling. The films shown are diverse in style and theme, but all share a commitment to telling authentic, powerful stories that reflect the complexity and beauty of being Black and TGNCI.

More than just a film festival, it’s a space to celebrate, connect, and build community. It’s about empowering Black TGNCI artists, creating a platform for them to be seen and heard, and offering audiences a chance to engage with stories that challenge perspectives and spark important conversations.

The Black Trans Short Film Festival is for everyone who wants to see a more honest, inclusive, and vibrant representation of Black TGNCI people in film.

Awards & Prizes

Jury Prize Award includes a $2,500 cash prize, film gear, trophies, connections to filmmaking professionals, and a distribution offer.

People's Choice Award includes a $1,250 cash prize, film gear, trophies, and connections to filmmaking professionals.

Check back here soon for updates on all the exciting awards for our Black TGNCI storytellers!

Rules & Terms

1) Film must be less than 20 minutes in length.

2) Final Submission Deadline is January 7th, 2026.

3) Film must be directed, produced or written by a Trans/Gender Non-Conforming/Intersex (TGNCI) person of African descent and/or who otherwise identifies as Black, and must also feature TGNCI persons of African descent, or tell a story of Black TGNCI experiences.

NOTE: Please submit a downloadable file version of your film!

3 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Gabe Gabriel

    Incredible festival - important work, supportive team, great films. What an honour to have screened here. Hope to be back again in future!

    May 2026
    Helpful
  • NOVA CYPRESS BLACK

    Hands down the best film space I've ever been in. The level of care & intentionality put into every component of the festival was exactly what we needed during these tumultuous times. So many wonderful connections made & ancestral affirmations received!

    May 2025
    Helpful
  • Naya Ryan Rashad Writer | Director

    This was a trip to remember. Ancestral. Healing. I was a part of history coming to this gathering of beautiful black trans folks. Do yourself a favor and bring yoself to this magical event.

    April 2025
    Helpful