2025 Festival Dates: In Person January 29th- February 2nd and Extended Virtually February 2nd- February 9th!
DBFF is dedicated to preserving and celebrating Black culture with film at its heart and spotlights on other forms of storytelling, like spoken word, art, music, comedy, and dance. We also highlight social justice issues through films and panel discussions. We are looking for creatives from all around the world who want to share "our" stories in a variety of genres. The submission categories offer a wide range of opportunities whether you are a new filmmaker or have an established career in the industry.
Each year we host curated experiences alongside our competitive film festival. Being accepted means you have access to experience an array of films, insightful panel discussions, workshops, music, comedy, spoken word, art, virtual events. This is all designed to inspire and connect you with like minds, hone your craft and of course, #ExperienceCulture. It's time to get noticed at the 2025 Denton Black Film Festival!
We are excited this year to announce a new category: Texas Short Screenplays. See screenwriting rules and terms for additional information.
The competitive program awards are provided in each category and have included Panavision camera packages, cash prizes, trophies, and certificates. Stay tuned for the announcement of award prizes for the 2025 festival. Finalists for each award category are determined by the submission team's ratings. The selection of award recipients in each category is accomplished through a ranking system by industry professionals. Award winners are announced at the Awards Celebration held during the festival and on social media after the end of the festival.
For the Virtual program, People Choice Awards ( Special Laurel and Certificate) are provided to the audience favorites in each category. Winners are announced at the end of the Virtual festtival.
Note: Award eligibility is subject to any restrictions or conditions imposed by applicable laws and regulations (international, federal, state or otherwise), and the award recipient is responsible for all applicable taxes, tariffs, insurance, and similar charges or costs.
For international filmmakers, awards and prizes will have free shipping, but the filmmaker is responsible for any duties, taxes, special fees, etc. Certain prizes may not be available internationally and may only be available in the USA. No alternate or additional compensation will be provided in this situation.
Screening Filmmaker Benefits:
• Two VIP Experience (All Access) Festival privileges for filmmaker and one guest.
• Up to Six (6) complimentary tickets for your film’s screening.
• Discounted prices for additional passes and tickets.
• Filmmaker events i.e., panels, workshops, award programs, mixers, etc. are usually complimentary, but special classes or events may require a nominal fee.
• Access to all special VIP spaces.
• Discounted hotel accommodation rates are available for all filmmakers and guests.
*Categories, awards, and benefits are subject to change at the discretion of DBFF*
Selected Screenwriter Benefits:
• Two VIP Experience (All Access) Festival privileges for writer(s) and/or guest.
• Discounted prices for additional passes and tickets.
• Finalists’ screenplay table reads performed during the festival by qualified actors
• Additional prizes to be announced.
•Filmmaker events i.e., panels, workshops, award programs, mixers, etc. are usually complimentary, but special classes or events may require a nominal fee.
• Winner(s) announced at the Awards Celebration during the festival.
• Access to all special VIP spaces.
• Discounted hotel accommodation rates
* Categories, awards, and benefits are subject to change at the discretion of DBFF*