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.

Jury Awards are given in the following categories:

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

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 2022 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 a current, valid ID and submit with school e-mail.

I hereby enter the above named film/video in the 2023 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.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Jessica Marcy

    Amazing festival and very well organized. As a Washingtonian, I had been to the festival beforehand and enjoyed it as a festival goer. This year, I was excited to have my film selected to screen here, but unfortunately I wasn't able to attend in person. Still, Kevin and the team did a wonderful job at creating a sense of community for everyone, including virtually. I appreciated the online aspect and press promotion. It really is a wonderful festival!!

    November 2023
  • Karen (Dr.K) Baptiste

    Kevin and Brittany did their thing. Everything was well-organized. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Most of all, I am grateful that our film was selected to be screened in 2023. The turnout was great, the panel was great, and the media interview was a nice bonus. Definitely recommend submitting your film here.

    September 2023
  • Gregory Williams

    A true joy! Loved meeting and networking with some fine filmmakers. Appreciated the kindness of Festival staff and volunteers . Well curated and run. Top notch!

    September 2023
  • Andy Mundy-Castle

    Brilliant Comms, didnt attend but by all acocounts we should have done.

    September 2023
  • Doreon Johnson

    Great festival, good city. Good people

    August 2023