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The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) made a dynamic return to Miami Beach, delivering five electrifying days that celebrated the power of Black artistry and storytelling from June 11 to June 15.
The one-of-a-kind event brought together a global community of filmmakers, creatives, and fans of Black culture for a week filled with thought-provoking panels, exclusive screenings, high-energy parties, and invaluable networking opportunities.
Here are the winners of this year’s Best of ABFF Award.
Source: Arturo Holmes
Among the standout moments of the 2025 festival was the announcement of the Best of ABFF award winners. Zoey Martinson’s The Fisherman, a whimsical tale about a Ghanaian fisherman who teams up with talking sea creatures on a journey to Accra, took home top honors.
Also recognized was Meta Take One, a psychological thriller from directors John Dierre and Ryan A. Dutter, which follows a relentless young filmmaker and his crew as they descend into a feverish, all-night mission to finish their film at any cost.
Other award-winning titles included Black Women and Sex, Sideline Story, and ADO, each offering fresh and resonant takes on Black experiences.
Larenz Tate and Nia Long spoke about their iconic film Love Jones.
One of the festival’s most cherished highlights was a special panel featuring ABFF ambassadors Nia Long and Larenz Tate. Titled Remembering Love Jones, the conversation offered an intimate look back at the 1997 romantic classic. The duo reflected on the film’s significant impact on Black film through its lyrical dialogue, nuanced performances, and authentic depiction of Black love. The experience was further elevated by a curated musical journey through the film’s legendary soundtrack, enveloping attendees in the soulful sounds and emotional resonance that made Love Jones a generational touchstone.
While chatting with WPLG Local 10, Tate said that playing Darius Love Hall in the film was one of his biggest accomplishments. He also found a personal connection with the character outside of the award-winning film.
“I have a little bit of Darius. I don’t think I was as cool as him. He was real smooth,” Tate quipped. “I wasn’t as smooth as Darius, but I like to believe that I can be a bit of a romantic when I want to.”
Tate is gearing up to play the legendary Berry Gordy in the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, and he can’t wait for people to see the film.
“We’re putting together a movie that we think is going to be pretty extraordinary,” he added.
The festival also tackled pressing social themes through impactful programming. Rising star Da’Vinchi and acclaimed actor Shameik Moore led a powerful discussion on destigmatizing mental health in Black communities through cinema. Meanwhile, the cast and creatives behind Peacock’s Bel-Air—including Cassandra Freeman, Adrian Holmes, Olly Sholotan, and showrunner Carla Banks-Waddles—shared insights into how the reimagined series challenges stereotypes and redefines Black excellence and wealth on television.
Additional highlights included screenings of 40 Acres, followed by a conversation with actress Danielle Deadwyler and director/co-writer R.T. Thorne, and Come Together: Art’s Power for Change, capped by a compelling discussion with director Nathan Hale-Williams on the transformative role of art in activism.
The festivities wrapped in true ABFF style with The Legendary White Party, hosted by Terrence J. With DJ Fly Guy on the decks, attendees danced well into the early hours, closing out the festival with energy, joy, and celebration that honored the richness and creativity of Black storytelling.
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