Welcome to XL Fest, where stories take up space ‘For the Culture’, unapologetically.
XL Fest is more than just a festival, it's a space where innovation, culture, and storytelling collide. As the premier celebration of BIPOC creativity in film, television, and immersive media, we are dedicated to amplifying voices that have long shaped the culture yet remain underrepresented in the industry. Through bold storytelling, boundary-pushing visuals, and groundbreaking ideas, XL Fest is a space where creators and audiences connect, celebrate, and re-imagine what’s possible in entertainment and most importantly eliminate the need for permission!
Our Programming:
At XL Fest, we showcase a dynamic range of content that reflects the richness and diversity of our communities. From visionary feature films and short-form storytelling to Afrofuturist narratives and experimental works, our programming is carefully curated to ignite conversation, inspire change, and spotlight the next wave of cinematic excellence. Whether you're an emerging filmmaker or an avid cinephile, XL Fest is your space to experience storytelling in its most powerful form.
Below is the lineup of our captivating themes for our 2025 short-form content:
For the Joy: A Celebration of Black Joy On-Screen
Laughter that echoes. Smiles that linger. Moments that remind us why we hold on. For the Joy is a radiant collection of films that celebrate the humor, warmth, and resilience of Black life. From razor-sharp comedies to moments of everyday triumph, these stories capture the energy that fuels us and the love that sustains us. Whether through satire, heartfelt connection, or outright hilarity, this block is a cinematic reminder that joy is not just an emotion—it’s a revolution.
For the Love: Romance, Relationships, and Radical Self-Love
Love is never just one thing. It’s electric, unpredictable, tender, and, at times, devastating. For the Love captures it all—romantic passion, unbreakable friendships, the ties of family, and the often-overlooked journey of loving oneself. These films explore love’s many faces, from the exhilarating first spark to the quiet comfort of something lasting. No matter the form it takes, love changes us, and this block proves that every love story—whether big or small—is worth telling.
For the Future: Sci-Fi, Afrofuturism, Fantasy & Experimental Cinema
The future isn’t waiting—it’s being created. For the Future is a bold, genre-bending showcase of sci-fi, fantasy, Afrofuturism, and experimental cinema that pushes the boundaries of imagination. These films transport us to new worlds, rewrite the past, and reclaim narratives too often left untold. Whether through mind-bending visuals, cosmic odysseys, or speculative storytelling, this block reminds us that the BIPOC experience is not limited to reality—it is infinite.
Join Us
Are you a filmmaker eager to share your work? An industry professional looking for fresh talent? A film enthusiast searching for stories that move and challenge you? XL Fest is your festival. For details on submissions, upcoming events, and ways to get involved, visit our website or reach out to us directly at: info@xlfest.org. Let’s take up space and eliminate the need for permission, TOGETHER.
Awards & Prizes
XL Fest is supported by leading industry partners, offering filmmakers professional resources and real-world industry exposure, not just awards on paper.
Industry Affiliates:
- AMC+
- Tubi
- Starz
- The Vault Access
- Vyre.TV
- Kweli TV
All official selections are automatically considered for potential STREAMING opportunities through these affiliations, creating a curated pathway for standout projects to be evaluated and positioned for release on today’s most relevant streaming platforms.
Select films will also be programmed for LIVE EVENTS throughout the year.
