The Blacksno Film Festival is a celebration of untold stories, culture, and resilience. Our mission is to preserve and amplify the voices of Black communities in Fresno and beyond through the power of film & documentary.
We welcome filmmakers from around the world who explore themes of history, migration, identity, social justice, faith, and culture. By showcasing documentaries and films that reflect diverse perspectives, we aim to create a platform for meaningful dialogue, cultural education, and community pride.
Hosted in the heart of California’s Central Valley, this festival highlights Fresno as both a unique local setting and a mirror of broader global experiences. From intimate shorts to powerful features, the Blacksno Film Festival connects storytellers with audiences eager for authentic, thought-provoking cinema.
Join us as we honor the past, reflect on the present, and inspire the future.

Awards & Prizes

Awards & Prizes
The Fresno Black History Documentary & Film Festival recognizes excellence in both documentary and narrative filmmaking. Our awards honor artistry, spotlight projects with cultural impact, and connect filmmakers to potential investors and industry partners.
Core Festival Awards
Best Documentary Feature
Best Documentary Short
Best Narrative Feature
Best Narrative Short
Best Student Film (documentary or narrative)
Audience Choice Award (voted by festival attendees)
🌍 Special Honors
Community Spotlight Award – for films highlighting Fresno or Central Valley stories.
Outstanding Historical Contribution – celebrating works that uncover overlooked aspects of Black history and culture.
Emerging Filmmaker Award – recognizing visionary new voices ready to make their mark.
💵 Cash Prizes
First Place Overall Festival Winner: $5,000
Second Place Overall Festival Winner: $2,500
Third Place Overall Festival Winner: $1,000
🎁 Additional Benefits
Laurels & Trophies/Certificates for all category winners.
Investor Spotlight: Winning films will be presented in curated sessions with potential investors, distributors, and festival programmers.
Industry Access: Networking opportunities with film enthusiasts, producers, and cultural institutions seeking scalable projects.
Press & Promotion: Featured across festival media channels and community press partners.
Future Collaboration: Consideration for extended distribution, co-productions, and partnerships through festival networks.
At our core, we believe great films deserve not just recognition, but the resources and opportunities to grow, connect, and thrive on a larger stage.

Rules & Terms

Rules & Terms (Template)
Eligibility
We accept submissions from filmmakers worldwide.
All films must be the original work of the applicant, and the applicant must own or control all rights to the film.
Non-English language films must include English subtitles.
Categories & Length
Documentary Feature: 40 minutes or longer.
Documentary Short: Under 40 minutes.
Student Films: Must be enrolled in a recognized educational institution during production.
Community Spotlight: Films highlighting Fresno or the Central Valley.
Submission Format
Films must be submitted via secure online screener (FilmFreeway, Vimeo, or YouTube private link).
Physical media (DVD/Blu-Ray) will not be accepted, except on special request by the programming team.
Premiere Status
While premiere status is not required, preference may be given to films making a Fresno or California premiere.
Deadlines & Fees
All submissions must be received by the posted deadlines on FilmFreeway.
Submission fees are non-refundable.
Selection Process
Submissions will be reviewed by the festival programming team.
Not all submissions will be selected. Selection is at the sole discretion of the festival.
Screening Format
Accepted films must be available in MP4, MOV, or DCP format for screening.
Downloadable screener links are strongly encouraged.
Rights & Clearances
By submitting, you affirm you hold all rights, licenses, and clearances necessary for exhibition.
The festival is not liable for any copyright infringement.
Promotional Use
Selected films may have excerpts, stills, or trailers used for festival promotion.
Agreement
By submitting to the Blacksno Film Festival, you agree to these terms.