Sponsored by the Ford Foundation, the 4th annual Detroit Black Film Festival (DBFF) is set to run from September 27th to October 1st, 2023, featuring an impressive lineup of 74 independent films spanning six countries and the African continent. Noteworthy highlights include the short film “Unexpected,” a collaboration between industry producer/director Zeberiah Newman and Emmy award-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, which explores the underground network of women helping each other navigate and overcome an HIV diagnosis in the rural south. Another must-see is the psychological thriller “Reunion,” written and directed by Emmy award-winner Gregory Alan Williams, starring leading cast members Xamon Glasper and T. Denise Johnson.
The festival commences on Wednesday, September 27th, with an afternoon showcase at the Carr Center from 12:00 noon to 1:15 pm, offering a glimpse of the diverse movie selection at this year’s DBFF. The opening night festivities take place at the downtown Marlene Boll Theater, featuring screenings of two films produced by Detroit filmmakers: “Fractured Hope,” a short film addressing the challenges of raising a child with autism, co-directed by Keely Stevens and James C. Turner, and “Intimate Betrayals,” a dramatic feature co-directed by Michael Jeffers and the late Melissa Talbot, starring Tee Bynum, Jonathan Crawford, Jayda Jones, and Robert Q Jackson.
In addition to showcasing established filmmakers, the festival spotlights emerging talent, including Tari Wariebi with “We Were Meant To,” a film celebrating self-liberation, and Chrishenda Dawkins with “My Mother’s Voice,” a compelling story about a son recalling his mother’s advice during encounters with the police.
Under the theme “Cinema, Cuisines, and Cocktails,” festival organizers Lazar & Marshalle Favors promise an unforgettable experience, combining exceptional films, delectable culinary delights, and the unique “Taste of Black Spirits: The Cocktail Concierge” exhibit, where attendees (21+) can sample handcrafted cocktails prepared by skilled mixologists. The festival will also host legendary artist Ronald “Mr. Biggs” Isley, presenting his new Liquid Gold XO Brandy, “Contagious,” crafted by Gravesande Braxton Distillery, in a signature event.
With screenings held at two venues, the Carr Center (Inside of the Park Shelton) and the Marlene Boll Theater (inside of the Downtown Detroit YMCA), attendees can access tickets and the screening schedule through EVENTBRITE. Additionally, three of the festival’s international films, “Dodma,” “The Black Italian Renaissance,” and “Return to Your Corner,” will be available for virtual viewing on the EVENTIVE platform.
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