For 14 years the Charlotte Black Film Festival (CBFF) will screen 100 films in-person and virtually. In addition to films this hybrid festival will produce Master classes, Workshops, Industry Networking, Fashion of Film Showcase, Actors Idol, PItchMe and the Red Carpet Vision Awards and more.

Our mission is to create economic empowerment for, heighten awareness of, promote the significance and need for African American cinema as an art form, and to be a voice for independent filmmakers of color.

This year’s festival itinerary includes four days of educational and empowering film screenings, panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities. In addition, the CBFF’s prestigious Red Carpet “Vision Awards” will recognize the achievements of emerging actors, composers, screenwriters and directors.

Trophies Awarded - Best of the Carolinas, Best Short, Best Feature, Best Black Women In Film, Best Documentary, Best Student Film, Best International Film. Audience Award, Best Director, Best Score, Best Actors, Best Animation and Best Art Film

Only films premiering at the Charlotte Black Film Festival as a Charlotte premiere will be permitted. meaning you cannot premiere your film at another festival in the Charlotte area prior to screening at our festival.

The winners of which are chosen by special juries will receive awards for the highest score in each of the following rating categories.

1) Originality / Creativity 2) Direction 3) Writing 4) Cinematography 5) Performances
6) Production Value 7) Pacing 8) Structure 9) Sound / Music.

All categories are eligible for the Audience Awards, which is chosen based on ballots
submitted by the festival audience. Street teams and promotional flyers
are encouraged to promote your film to attendees. Winners will be
announced during the Red Carpet “Vision Awards”.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Marcus Baum

    "THE BEST EVER" !! CLASS CLASS CLASS

    October 2023
  • Tiffani Bliss Brown

    My cast, crew, and I had an enjoyable time in Charlotte and were all so glad we got to experience the festival in-person. We had an amazing screening as well as a great exchange with the audience during our Q&A. And although we didn't win, walking away as a finalist in the Black Women in Film category was an incredible honor. Thank you to the Charlotte Black Film Festival.

    August 2023
  • Charlie Bingham

    I had such a good experience at the CBFF - they owe me nothing! I didn't have a chance to attend too many of the networking events because I met great people to network with outside of those events. The staff were kind and very accomodating. The films were top notch and made me feel like I need to step up my game. I was super proud for my first project GoodGame to receive an award from this awesome festival!

    August 2023
  • The Red Carpet, Comedy, and Fashion Show is so much fun! The workshops are very informative. Good networking for filmmaker’s, actors, directors and creative people. Thanks CBFF for an Official Selection! Six Feet Apart Six Feet Under! 🎞️🎥

    July 2023
  • One of the best film festivals I have been to, and it continues to grow. Great people, great networking, and great experience. Will definitely return next year.

    July 2023