THE 6TH ANNUAL DETROIT BLACK FILM FESTIVAL ' THE FANTASTIC FALL '

Detroit, MI — Trinity Films Entertainment Group, in collaboration with The Ford Foundation, Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, The Love Building, and The Marlene Boll Theater (YMCA), is thrilled to announce the 6th Annual Detroit Black Film Festival (DETBFF), set to take place from September 25 through September 28, 2025. This year's festival will showcase an impressive lineup of 72 outstanding films from 30 countries, celebrating the creativity and talent of Black filmmakers and actors worldwide.

SCREENING SCHEDULE:

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The 6th Annual 

Detroit Black Film Festival + TASTE OF BLACK SPIRITS “ COLLECTIVE BEHAVIOR “ LIQUID FORUM ( 14th edition )

A Blended Experience of Cinema, Culture & Cocktails

“ THE FANTASTIC FALL “

September 25th - 28th, 2025

Detroit, MI — Trinity Films Entertainment Group, in collaboration with The Ford Foundation, Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, The Love Building, and The Marlene Boll Theater (YMCA), is thrilled to announce the 6th Annual Detroit Black Film Festival (DETBFF), set to take place from September 25 through September 28, 2025. This year's festival will showcase an impressive lineup of 72 outstanding films from 30 countries, celebrating the creativity and talent of Black filmmakers and actors worldwide.

The DETBFF offers a diverse selection of compelling narratives, ranging from thought-provoking documentaries to engaging stories that honor the Black experience. Audiences can look forward to breathtaking cinematography, powerful performances, and insightful discussions that will enhance the cinematic experience. Over just six years, the DETBFF has become Michigan's premier film festival, screening over 500 films created by Black filmmakers, including those who are led, directed, produced, and written. This year's festival promises to be nothing short of incredible.

Spanning three days, the festival will feature screenings at three distinct locations, alongside several engaging events, including talkbacks with filmmakers and a Meet the Filmmaker AfterGlow. The festivities will kick off with a glamorous Red Carpet Opening Night Reception at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History on September 25. The festival will culminate in the Honors and Awards Ceremony on September 28, celebrating the outstanding achievements of filmmakers.

"We are excited to showcase the remarkable talents and stories represented in this year's festival," said [ Marshalle Favors ], [Co-Founder] at Trinity Films Entertainment Group. "The DETBFF serves as a vital platform for Black voices in cinema, and we can't wait to share these powerful films with our audiences."

Opening Night Reception Film series: Featuring 

"Red Clay": Directed by Nolan Jones and produced by Tauheed "2 Chainz" Epps and Omar Epps, this film portrays the poignant journey of Nook, a conflicted teenager grappling with his mother’s devastating drug addiction. It delves into themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the difficult choices one makes in the search for redemption.

"Wednesdays with Gramps": Directed by Chris Copeland and Justin Copeland, this touching story centers on a teenage boy who discovers a surprising connection with his grandfather during visits to what he initially perceives as a dull assisted living facility. The film beautifully explores themes of communication and shared experiences without relying on dialogue.

"“ ADO “ Directed by: Sam Henderson Starring Jenifer Lewis Ms. Hopkins is rehearsing Much Ado About Nothing with her middle school theatre class when it is interrupted by a school shooter.

"Kofi"  Starring Sam Asante, directed by Marianna Phung, this film captures the compelling story surrounding the character Kofi, with performances from talented rising stars.

"DnhMuzic: My Music, My Journey” Phoenix Neo-Hop artist, DnhMuzic, shares his music and reflects on the heart spaces that history, human connection and perseverance hold for him as a Black artist.

“Laundry “ Starring Danielle Monè Truitt  (Law and Order Organized Crime, Rebel (BET) and Tobias Truvillion ( Empire, First Wives Club, The Best Man, Equal Standard, Hitch) Directed by  Okema T. Moore

Attendees can also look forward to screenings by our very own home grown talent presented by “THE FEARLESS TRIBE OF FANATIC FILMMAKERS “

“Sincerely Detroit” Screening series includes 

"A Debt Owed, Not a Handout": Directed by Khary Frazier, this compelling video essay examines the fight for reparations through the stories of grassroots activists, politicians, and community leaders.

“Beyond Beliefs” By Director Shaquille Quamae Hall- A young woman from Cleveland, Ohio earns a scholarship to attend a 4-day river trip through the wild Green River's Gates of Lodore Canyon. The only catch ... she doesn't know how to swim and is terrified of water. Join Danielle and her peers on this wonderful journey, and bear witness to her inspiring first-hand account of what it took to go beyond her beliefs about water, and how that expanded the vision for her future.

“The Recruit” By Director Michael Barbee Starring Marcus Wood - The Recruit takes a comedic approach to telling the story of Mike Fly, a 5-star football recruit whose parents Mark and Melanie are helping him navigate name, image and likeness (NIL) deals related to his scholarship offers. Mike relies on his parents to determine what is in his best interest. When they meet Coach Robinson, their plans change.

"The Cut": Directed by award-winning filmmaker Jeremy Brockman, this film tells the story of a troubled veteran returning home to mend his relationship with his estranged brother, only to face an unexpected challenge that threatens his healing journey.

International Highlights:

- "AfterGlow": Directed by Benjamin George Kobena Turner and starring Adele James from Netflix's "Queen Cleopatra."

-"The Last Dance": Directed by Hayden McLean, this film addresses the impact of a compulsory purchase order on a beloved Caribbean establishment in 90's East London.

Celebrity Highlights:

- "Paw Paw & Dayja": Directed by Gregory Alan Williams and starring Aria Isabella May, showcasing Williams’ extensive career in film and television.

- "Goodnight, My Love": Starring Marla Gibbs, Hal Williams, and Jasmine Shanise, directed by Chyna Robinson.

- "White History Month": Starring Wesley Jonathan, directed by Aaron Wallace.

- "Don't Hang Up": Starring Paula Jai Parker, directed by Diamond Batiste.

- "An Extraordinary Life": Starring Lisa Arrindell, whose career spans film, television, and stage, directed by Lisa Arrindell.

Thought provoking Documentaries:

Through Their Eyes: Stories of Anti-Blackness: By Director Jason Edward Seals- is a thought-provoking documentary that explores anti-Blackness through the lived experience of people of African ancestry. features candid narratives from accomplices outside of the African community, offering a critical examination of their role in perpetuating and challenging Anti-Blackness. Through Their Eyes confronts the deep-rooted structures of racial injustice while amplifying resistance and healing.

CIRILO, A Legacy Untold: By Director Justin O'Shea Cooper- Born into poverty in Panama, Cirilo McSween's journey is one of defiance, resilience, and triumph over systemic barriers. Against the backdrop of Jim Crow America, McSween confronts entrenched racism while pursuing the elusive American Dream. From his arrival in the United States as an ambitious immigrant to his ascent as a trailblazing entrepreneur and civil rights activist, McSween’s life becomes a testament to the power of determination and community.

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