The DC Black Film Festival (DCBFF) is dedicated to showcasing quality film, webseries and television content by and/or about people of African descent. We support emerging artists striving to add diversity to the images and storytellers working in the entertainment industry. The DCBFF is committed to playing an integral role in discovering, celebrating and helping films and filmmakers by bringing them to the attention of the industry, media and public.

*In light of the global pandemic (COVID-19) we have decided to make this year's festival virtual once again. As we did last year, we will have the amazing experience you've come to love!*

Awards & Prizes

Jury Awards are given in the following categories:

Best Narrative Feature
Best Narrative Short
Best Documentary
Best Documentary Short
Best International Film
Best Short
Best Web Series
Best Student Film
Best Animated/Experimental
Best Children's Film
Best Director
Best Actor
Best Actress
Best DC Film- Given to film in which DC is a prominent setting or focus of the story.

Rules & Terms

All films submitted must have at least one or more of the above-the-line crew members (writer, director, producer or actors) be of African descent. All non-English language films must be subtitled in English. Entry does not guarantee acceptance into the festival. Films must have been created in 2019 or after. Submissions MUST NOT be available for viewing online (sites like YouTube, Vimeo, etc.) or on VOD platforms. Our only exception to this is for web series submissions. All students must provide current, valid ID and submit with school e-mail.

I hereby enter the above named film/video in the 2021 DC Black Film Festival (DCBFF) competition and hold all necessary rights for said production. I understand that DCBFF will not be responsible for accidental damage to, or loss of, my entry or any other materials submitted, nor will they be liable for any legal actions, which may arise in connection to this production. If nominated, I understand I must provide DCBFF with production photos, promotional materials, and an exhibition copy of my work. I understand that, unless otherwise specified, DCBFF provides no financial compensation for any exhibition of my work. I understand that if my work is nominated, excerpts may be used by DCBFF for promotional purposes. I understand and am authorized to accept all of the terms listed under the submission guidelines, and I agree to abide by all guidelines.
47 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
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Networking
  • Mark Vinzant

    LESSONS LIVED was honored to be a part of the D.C. Film Festival We cannot thank you all enough for the support. See you all next year.

    October 2020
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  • Chloe Gardiner

    I was very lucky to be apart of the DC Black Film Festival. As an aspiring writer and director and as a young black woman, it was great to have my film showcased at this festival as well as see the other talented works from other black filmmakers. The organizers of the festival were clear in their request and the communication between me and them was fantastic. I enjoyed the festival being virtual as I was able to watch the films on my own time. I enjoyed the masterclasses and learned valuable lessons I will take with me in the future for my career.

    October 2020
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  • Brandon Haynes

    An amazing experience! I look forward to coming back next year. They transitioned perfectly to give a full festival experience online. Panels, screening, parties, press days, social gatherings, and an award ceremony. Best festival experience in 2020 so far.

    September 2020
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  • Angela Heath

    Super Festival! Kevin Sampson is quite passionate about presenting an excellent festival and we filmmakers greatly appreciate his efforts! Thank you DCBFF for screening Women of Faith: Coping with Trauma. We participated in a panel discussion, screened our film and got to meet musicians - all virtually. It was a challenge for sure - but you all did a great job. Next project: will def submit! Thank you!!

    September 2020
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  • Alyscia Cunningham

    The DC Black Film Festival team was professional, courteous, and well organized. I volunteered with DCBFF 2 years ago and appreciated their professionalism. This year was virtual and they still maintained maintained high standards. I would highly recommend DCBFF to any Filmmakers considering entering their film.

    September 2020
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