Entering its 13th year in 2027, the Denton Black Film Festival (DBFF) is the largest Black film festival in Texas and the Southwest, celebrating Black culture and storytelling through film, music, spoken word, comedy, and more. DBFF is a hybrid festival experience featuring both in-person and virtual programming.

In-Person Festival: January 27–31, 2027
Extended Virtually: January 31–February 7, 2027

DBFF welcomes filmmakers and creatives from around the world whose work reflects the richness, diversity, and complexity of Black experiences, cultures, and communities.

The festival offers filmmakers an engaging experience featuring audience conversations, filmmaker Q&As, panel discussions, workshops, networking opportunities, live performances, art exhibitions, theatrical screenings, and virtual programming. Official selections become part of a vibrant cultural experience designed to inspire, connect, and empower both artists and audiences.

Following an impactful 2026 festival season filled with meaningful storytelling and dynamic conversations, DBFF invites filmmakers to share their stories and #ExperienceCulture at the 2027 Denton Black Film Festival.

Awards & Prizes

The Denton Black Film Festival (DBFF) celebrates excellence in filmmaking, storytelling, and artistic achievement through a competitive awards program honoring outstanding films and filmmakers.

Awards may include:
• Cash prizes
• Trophies
• Certificates
• Official laurels
• Audience Awards
• Additional honors and special recognitions

Finalists are selected through DBFF’s curatorial review process, with award recipients determined by festival jurors, filmmakers, educators, and industry professionals.

In 2027, DBFF will once again host its annual Filmmaker Awards Celebration, honoring outstanding films and filmmakers from across the festival’s competitive program.

New for 2027, DBFF will introduce In-Person Audience Awards in select categories, allowing festival attendees to vote for favorite films during the live festival experience.

Virtual People’s Choice Awards will continue for eligible films participating in the Virtual Festival.

Award winners and honorees may also receive recognition and promotional support across DBFF festival, media, and social platforms.

Please Note:
• Award categories, prizes, and benefits are subject to change.
• International winners may be responsible for duties, taxes, or related fees associated with prize delivery.

Benefits for Selected Participants
Selected filmmakers and screenwriters receive VIP festival access, networking opportunities, filmmaker hospitality benefits, and access to panels, workshops, mixers, screenings, and festival events.

Additional selected filmmaker benefits may include:
• Complimentary screening tickets
• Discounted festival passes and hotel accommodations
• Access to filmmaker and industry events

Selected screenwriters may also participate in live table reads performed during the festival by professional actors.

Additional prizes, awards, and recognitions may be announced.

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Rules & Terms

By submitting a project, entrants confirm they have read and agreed to the following festival rules, terms, and conditions.

General Communication

If contact information changes after submission, filmmakers should notify DBFF at dbfffilmmaker@gmail.com. If selected and DBFF is unable to establish contact, the project may be removed from the festival lineup.

Please include a phone number for time-sensitive festival communications. Phone numbers will not be shared.

Film Submission Eligibility

Filmmakers are eligible to submit if ONE or more of the following applies:
1. The film is written, directed, or produced by a Black filmmaker
2. The film prominently features Black actors or stories
3. The subject highlights the history, culture, heritage, or experiences of the Black community

Film Submission Guidelines
• Open to U.S. and international entries.
• Non-English language films must include English subtitles.
• To be eligible for competitive awards consideration, films must have been completed on or after January 1, 2024. Earlier projects may be considered for Invitational screenings at the discretion of the festival.
• Films with commercial distribution are not eligible for the competitive awards program but may be considered for Invitational screenings.
• All films and projects submitted for competitive consideration must be submitted through FilmFreeway with the appropriate paid submission fee and an online screener. Eligible DBFF screening alumni may request a discount code by contacting dbfffilmmaker@gmail.com.
• A limited number of invitational films may be programmed outside the standard submission process at the discretion of the festival. Invitational screenings are non-competitive and are not eligible for juried awards or competitive consideration.
• Works-in-progress require advance approval prior to submission. Please contact dbfffilmmaker@gmail.com for approval requests.
• Selected projects must be delivered in the required exhibition format by the specified deadline.
• Student submissions must include proof of student status at the time of production.
• Submitters are encouraged to include press kits, posters, trailers, and promotional materials within their FilmFreeway submission.
• Submitters affirm they hold all necessary rights and permissions for submitted materials, including music, images, and other copyrighted content.
• Filmmakers are encouraged to carefully review all submission requirements and provide complete and accurate materials at the time of submission. Incomplete submissions or missing requested information may impact eligibility or consideration.
• Submission fees are non-refundable. Withdrawal requests are subject to DBFF approval.

Liability & Promotional Use

DBFF is not responsible for damage, loss, or third-party claims involving copyright, music, trademarks, credits, or other ownership disputes.

By submitting, entrants grant DBFF permission to use up to three (3) minutes of accepted projects, trailers, stills, titles, and related materials for festival marketing, publicity, and promotional purposes.

Texas Short Screenplay Eligibility

Screenwriters are eligible to submit if ONE or more of the following applies:
1. The primary writer is Black
2. The screenplay features prominent Black characters or stories
3. The subject highlights the history, culture, heritage, or experiences of the Black community

Texas Short Screenplay Guidelines

• The primary writer must be a current Texas resident.
• Proof of residency dated within the past 12 months is required and may include:
- Texas Driver’s License or State ID
- Utility Bill
- Lease or Mortgage Statement
- Student ID with Enrollment Verification
- Voter Registration Card
• Screenplays must be 20 pages or fewer and submitted as a PDF in standard screenplay format.
• Pages must be numbered, and writer names should not appear on the title page in order to support anonymous judging.
• Scripts must be original and unproduced.
• Scripts must be submitted by the writer or an authorized member of the writing team.
• Revisions or missing pages will not be accepted after submission.
• Awards are presented to the submitting writer, with co-writers acknowledged where applicable.
• Submission fees are non-refundable. Withdrawal requests are subject to DBFF approval.

Screenplay Recommendation
DBFF recommends registering screenplays with the U.S. Copyright Office or the Writers Guild of America (WGA) prior to submission.

Screenplay Liability & Promotional Use
DBFF is not liable for damages or third-party claims related to submitted screenplays or materials.

By submitting, entrants grant DBFF permission to use excerpts, titles, loglines, and related promotional materials for festival marketing and publicity purposes.

126 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
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Networking
  • Amber Monet

    I was truly honored to premiere at the Denton Black Film Festival. DBFF is, without question, one of the most meaningful and well-executed festivals I have experienced as a filmmaker.

    Having attended dozens of festivals over the years, I can honestly say this was one of the best experiences I’ve had. From the moment I arrived, it was clear how intentional the team is about supporting filmmakers and creating a genuine sense of community. The audiences were engaged, present, and deeply invested in the stories being shared, and the conversations extended far beyond the screenings.

    I left Denton not only grateful for the experience, but genuinely inspired by the work of others and the community that DBFF continues to build. This is a festival that stays with you, and one I would return to without hesitation.

    March 2026
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Amber, thank you so much for these incredibly kind and thoughtful words. It truly means a lot to our entire team to hear that your experience at the Denton Black Film Festival felt both meaningful and intentional.

    We are especially grateful that you chose DBFF for your premiere. Creating a space where filmmakers feel supported, audiences are engaged, and stories spark real connection is at the heart of what we strive to do, so your reflections affirm that in a very special way.

    We’re so glad you felt the spirit of community here in Denton—and that you left inspired. That’s exactly what we hope for every filmmaker and guest who joins us.

    We would absolutely love to welcome you back anytime. Thank you again for sharing your work with us and for being part of the DBFF family.

    Warmly,
    Linda & the DBFF Team

  • Spartakus Santiago

    Being at the Denton Black Film Festival was an unforgettable experience. I felt very welcomed by everyone. Linda and Harry are amazing. It was especially meaningful to have my film FREE ON BAIL selected and my short film SPELL awarded. As a Brazilian director, this experience showed me that our community truly transcends national borders. Thank you for that. 🙂

    March 2026
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Spartakus, thank you so much for these kind words. It truly meant a lot to have you with us at DBFF.

    We were honored to present both FREE ON BAIL and SPELL, and so pleased to see your work recognized. You brought such a wonderful spirit to the festival—everyone who met you felt it.

    It means even more knowing you traveled all the way from Brazil. You’re absolutely right—this community does transcend borders, and we’re grateful you were a part of it.

    We are always welcome at DBFF.

    Warmly,
    Linda & the DBFF Team

  • Keshia Thomas

    The environment was energetic and welcoming. It was great to be surrounded by creative minds showcasing their incredible work. Thank you for the selection, award, and amazing experience.

    February 2026
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much, Keshia, for being part of DBFF — and congratulations again on your award. We’re grateful you shared your work with our community, and it means a lot to hear the experience felt welcoming and creatively energizing. We hope to see you back with us again soon.
    Linda & DBFF Team

  • Pamela Davis-Noland

    It is an honor to have been selected to screen at the Denton Black Film Festival. From the onset of us receiving the OFFICIAL SELECTION the communication from Festival organizers was nothing short of stellar: quick responses, clear, informative emails, Zoom Meetings to keep every abreast, and so on and so on. The excitement to attend was incredible. Unfortunately, due to the Nation-wide winter storm, only one member of the team was able to attend and represent us. Linda was so sweet in her efforts to make the changes needed to accommodate her. We plan on attending next year's festival, with or without a film screening. Here is Lead Actress, BROOKES WASHINGTON's (Waitress, Room for Dessert) review of the festival:

    I want to share my reflections on the Denton Black Film Festival experience:
    Overall, I was genuinely excited to attend. Despite the winter weather and freezing temperatures, the festival environment itself felt incredibly warm, welcoming, and engaging.

    My hotel stay was lovely and provided a comfortable space to recharge and prepare between events. Having that time and space made the overall experience even more enjoyable.

    The red carpet event was especially memorable for me, as it was my first official red carpet. While I was nervous going in, it quickly became an exciting and surreal moment. I had the opportunity to participate in interviews and speak about our film, Room for Dessert, which was both affirming and energizing.

    Seeing the premiere of Quakertown was deeply impactful. The audience’s emotional connection, unity, and engagement were powerful to witness. It was inspiring to see such a passionate project resonate so strongly with the community.

    The voice-over workshop led by Kenneisha Thompson was another highlight. She created an engaging, welcoming, and creatively freeing environment. We did warm-up exercises that were dynamic, playful, and grounding, which served as a wonderful reminder of the physicality, imagination, and presence required in performance work. It was also a pleasure connecting with other artists in that space.

    Attending additional screenings at the Alamo Drafthouse added another layer to the experience. Being able to watch other films, support fellow creatives, and fully immerse myself in the festival atmosphere was incredibly enjoyable.

    My own screening held special significance. Seeing myself on screen in a theatrical setting was both exciting and humbling. While I was certainly nervous during the Q&A, I appreciated the thoughtful engagement from attendees. It meant a great deal to hear audience members share their interpretations and feedback afterward. Several individuals took the time to express how strongly the performance resonated with them, which I deeply valued.

    The festival staff and organization were excellent throughout. Communication was clear and efficient, and the overall energy felt supportive and welcoming. I am especially grateful for moments of kindness from those who helped create a sense of connection and community during the events.

    Personally, this festival represented a meaningful milestone in my journey as an actress. The experience felt both surreal and deeply affirming, and I would absolutely welcome the opportunity to attend again in the future.

    Warmly,
    Brookes

    Thanks again, Denton! xoxo

    February 2026
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much, Pamela, for these incredibly kind words — and please extend our appreciation to Brookes as well for sharing such a heartfelt reflection on her experience.

    We know this year brought unexpected challenges with the winter storm, so it truly meant a lot that your team still found a way to be part of the festival. It was our pleasure to support Brookes and ensure she felt welcomed and cared for while representing Room for Dessert. Moments like her first red carpet, meaningful audience conversations, and the connections formed throughout the weekend are exactly why we do this work.

    At DBFF, our goal is always to create a space where filmmakers and artists feel seen, supported, and celebrated — both on and off the screen. Hearing that the festival environment felt warm, engaging, and affirming, even in freezing temperatures, means more than you know.

    We are grateful you chose to share your film and your artistry with our community, and we would be honored to welcome you back anytime — next year or beyond.

    With appreciation,
    Linda Eaddy & The DBFF Team

  • Sharon Samuels

    This festival was very well organized and the festival directors were amazing! There was a good variety of things to do and there was plenty of time to socialize with other filmmakers. Highly recommend!

    February 2026
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much — we truly appreciate you being part of DBFF. Creating a well-organized, welcoming space where filmmakers can connect and build community is always our goal, so your words mean a great deal. We’re grateful you joined us and hope to welcome you back again soon.
    Linda & DBFF Team