We are seeking Black films for our 15th Annual Bill Johnson Black Film Festival to be held at the Glen Theater in Gary, Indiana on Friday, February 20, Saturday, February 21, and Sunday, February 22, 2025. The films must have been produced by independent film directors and/or producers. We are accepting narrative features, documentaries, short films, and feature films.
Now in its 15th year, this annual 2-day (this year 3-days) event presents films from independent filmmakers, panel discussions, matinee screenings for middle and high school youth and chats with filmmakers, and others in the industry. With an audience of over 1200 the event is always held during Black History Month and is designed to celebrate black culture through independent film and discussion. Come and enjoy the excitement! The host committee will provide transportation OR housing cost for certain selected featured entrants.
ALL PARTICIPANTS ARE REQUESTED TO SUPPLY UP-TO-DATE CONTACT INFORMATION (NAME, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER, AND EMAIL ADDRESS) WHEN MAKING A SUBMISSION.
The Bill Johnson Black Film Festival believes all of the filmmakers who are selected for participation through the entry process are worthy of honor. All participants receive several recognition as is shown in the pictures above on this home page and on our website. The deadline is December 29, 2025. A submission fee of $25 is required: this fee is a one time fee and may be applied to multiple submissions. Contact Dr. Vernon G. Smith if you would like to make multiple submissions with only one fee. Entries submitted prior to July 31, 2025 will receive a $10 discount requiring a submission fee of only $15. Submissions after September 30, 2025 will be charged a late fee increasing the submission fee to $35.
ALL PARTICIPANTS ARE REQUESTED TO SUPPLY UP TO DATE CONTACT INFORMATION (NAME, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER, AND EMAIL ADDRESS) WHEN MAKING A SUBMISSION.