Boss XL Mag Highlights and Recaps of the American Black Film Festival in Miami
- Allia Jama
- Jun 21
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 21
The American Black Film Festival returned to Miami Beach by storm again, presenting full days of panels, events, and screenings for thousands of attendees.
Day Two
The day kicked off as festival goers were still buzzing with excitement after the opening night party at The Bass art museum attended by Michael Jai White, DC Young Fly, and Jemele Hill. The powerhouse lineup of panels began as NBA icon Chris Paul took center stage to discuss his transition from the court to the world of production through Ohh Dip!!! Productions.
Later in the evening, Michael Jai White and Method Man attended the premiere of Trouble Man and Dondré Whitfield delivered a powerful one-man show filled with raw emotion, and sharp humor.
Closing out the white-hot second day of ABFF was the Because They’re Funny Comedy Night, hosted by the always-electric comedian and entertainer DC Young Fly.
Day Two
The day began as Ashanti took the stage to discuss her new Peacock docu-series “Nelly & Ashanti: We Belong Together,” offering an intimate look at the Grammy-winning couple’s journey from rekindled romance to starting a family.
Attendees were invited into the world of STARZ with a double feature of two of culture’s most anticipated series launching this summer: Magic City: An American Fantasy and BMF. The double feature included a lively Q&A with Magic City executive producers Cole Brown and Jermaine Dupri as well as clips and conversation with BMF’s Da’Vinchi and Derryck “Big Tank Thornton”.
Mara Brock Akil joined Terrence J for a conversation about the creative journey behind her hit new Netflix series FOREVER.
The packed day came to a close with the touching film Old Gray Mare, highlighting the quiet shadow of dementia that many families face.
Day Four
The week’s programming concluded with Remembering Love Jones, an intimate conversation with Nia Long and Larenz Tate celebrating the legacy of Love Jones (1997). Attendees were offered a unique behind-the-scenes look at the iconic romantic drama, honoring its poetic dialogue, dynamic performances, and authentic portrayal of Black love — elements that made Love Jones a cultural touchstone.
To close out the festival with a bang, Terrence J hosted The Legendary White Party, and DJ Fly Guy had attendees celebrating and dancing into the early morning hours.
Founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is the leading festival of its kind showcasing Black storytelling. Since its inception, the ABFF has been dedicated to supporting Friday’s conviction that Black artists deserve the same opportunities as their mainstream counterparts. Having premiered the work and encouraged the careers of many of today’s most successful filmmakers and actors, the ABFF has become the standard-bearer of excellence for Black American creativity.
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