Bushwick Film Fest Press Releases
Bushwick Film Festival Announces 2025 Winners & Festival Highlights
As the curtain falls on its 18th year, the Bushwick Film Festival reaffirms its role as a vital platform for independent cinema. With a dynamic lineup that drew film lovers, emerging talent, and industry voices—including acclaimed actor Giancarlo Esposito—BFF continues to spotlight stories that resonate. From bold debuts to meaningful conversations, the festival celebrated creativity, community, and the enduring power of film. Sincere thanks to our sponsors, partners, filmmakers, and audiences for making 2025 unforgettable. See you next year.
Left to Right (Giancarlo Esposito, Ann Carli, Cinqué Lee and Joie Lee)
Photo Credit: Bushwick Film Festival
See the full winners list and festival photos here.
Brooklyn, NY — October 20, 2025 — The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) is thrilled to announce the winners of its 18th annual event, celebrating outstanding independent storytelling across genres. This year, BFF continued its tradition of recognizing exceptional talent with awards in categories including Best Feature, Best Short, Best Episodic, and more. The winning films and performances told bold stories, showcased the independent spirit, and featured compelling characters that deeply resonated with audiences.
A full list of winners can be found below. Photos of each winner are available HERE.
Best Feature Narrative: Todos Somos Justos directed by Carlos Leiva Barahona
Feature Narrative Runner Up: The Color of Air directed by Oliver Moser & Drip Like Coffee directed by Anaiis Cisco
Best Feature Documentary: Join The Club directed by Kip Andersen & Chris O'Connell
Feature Documentary Runner-Up: Slumlord Millionaire directed by Steph Ching & Ellen Martinez
Best Short Narrative: Them That's Not directed by Mekhai Lee
Short Narrative Runner-Up: The Truck directed by Elizabeth Rao
Short Narrative Honorable Mention: Hodge-Podge directed by Max Scherr
Best Short Documentary: Brims of Tradition: The Dual Legacy of a Black Hat Maker directed by Jon Waldman
Short Documentary Runner-Up: No Black Dancers in Portland directed by Shareina Chandler
Short Documentary Honorable Mention: AT SEE directed by Serena Dykman
Best Episodic: Born 2 Lose directed by Carlos Cardona
Episodic Runner-Up: Au-Pair-is directed by Emily Rodriguez
Episodic Honorable Mention: DENIM directed by Tedra
Best Screenplay: Screentime written by Zoé Paddon
Screenplay Runner-Up: Again Znovu written by Katarzyna Müller
Festival Jury
The jurors for this year’s festival included industry leaders like Malcolm Barrett (Actor, Average Joe, Timeless ), Andre Ozim (Actor, You and The Gilded Age), Kaliswa Brewster (Actress (Billions) and producer, co-producer on Duke & Roya Off-Broadway), Crosby Fitzgerald (Actress, Little House on the Prairie (2025) Palm Royale (2024), The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox (2025) and Abbott Elementary (2021)), Chien-Ping Lin (Director/Executive Producer, Little Yellow Flower, & BFF Alum), Rob Fatal (Sundance Film Institute Native Film Lab Fellow Alum and an Imagine Native Director's Lab feature film fellow alum), Daniel Pravit Fethke (Producer), Natasha Florentino (Documentary Filmmaker, Abundant Land: Soil, Seeds and Sovereignty), Justin Joseph Hall (Director/Founder, Fourwind Films & Quatre-Vents), Tedd Collatos (Writer, Director, Palookaville), Lauren Smitelli (Director, Best Summer Ever), Michael Litwak (Director, Molli and Max in the Future, Snatchers), and Petra Ahmann (Silverline Cinema)
A Blue-Carpet Night to Remember
The evening brought perfect weather and inspiring remarks from the Brooklyn Borough President and local Council Members, who spoke about the importance of the arts, BFF’s legacy, and the founder’s commitment to the festival’s mission. Live music by Diego Campo Jazz set the tone, and a live DJ closed the night with a high-energy dance set. With support from Spectrum, Lot 45, and Great Jones Distilling Co., Manhattan’s first legal whiskey distillery, guests enjoyed world-class whiskey tastings, city pride, and community spirit that perfectly reflected BFF’s mission.
Screenings, Filmmaker Q&As, and Full Houses All Weekend
The festival kicked off at Williamsburg Cinemas with an inspiring lineup of films from New York and around the world, featuring 11 World Premieres, 10 East Coast Premieres, and 24 New York Premieres. Packed theaters continued throughout the weekend for standout screenings including Rare and Grand Alignment by director Cinqué Lee, with award-winning actor Giancarlo Esposito in attendance.
Industry, Community, and Closing Night
BFF closed the weekend with an industry brunch hosted by festival partner Lovejoys and a screening of the award-winning films. On Wednesday, October 8, the festival concluded with an awards ceremony at Great Jones Distilling Co., co-hosted by Great Jones and longtime supporter Hadley M. Fisher, with remarks by Hadley, festival board members, and winning filmmakers. Partners including Freelancers Union and Brooklyn Cooperative were also in attendance. The evening featured a beautiful space, world-class whiskey, great food, heartfelt speeches, and a final toast to independent storytelling.
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2025 Sponsors & Partners
Spectrum, Great Jones Distilling Co., Brooklyn Cooperative, Freelancers Union, Adobe, All Things Iceland, Broadway Stages,, DCP For All, , Lot45, Lovejoys, Street Team, The Birdhouse Salon, World Owned, Zen Business, My Little Magic Shop, Chef Claudio’s Kitchen, Rise Her, Pyperbleu Collective, and Twenty-Sided.
About the Bushwick Film Festival:
The Bushwick Film Festival is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to discovering emerging voices, sharing great stories, and building community through film. As an M/WBE organization, BFF is proud to be among the 12% of U.S. festivals owned by women of color. Each year, BFF receives over 1,000 submissions from 60+ countries, welcomes 5,000 attendees, and showcases 100 standout indie films. With partner support, the festival offers free programs uplifting underrepresented storytellers in Brooklyn. Connect with us via our newsletter or on instagram.
Connect with the Bushwick Film Festival:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bushwickfilmfest
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BushwickFilmFestival/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bushwickfilmfest
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCho76RKwKp12jb6W_LkBnmg
Press Contact:
Kerri-Ann Seredinsky | Big Picture Media — KerriAnn@BigPictureMediaOnline.com
18th Annual Bushwick Film Festival Kicks Off Next Week, Oct 1–5
Featuring Chilean thriller Todos somos justos, the festival showcases nearly 100 films — including 10 world premieres and 35 New York premieres — from the next generation of indie voices in Brooklyn and around the world.
Featuring Chilean thriller Todos somos justos, the festival showcases nearly 100 films — including 10 world premieres and 35 New York premieres — from the next generation of indie voices in Brooklyn and around the world.
Program & Tickets Available:
www.bushwickfilmfestival.com/Tickets
Brooklyn, NY — The 18th Annual Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) kicks off next week, October 1–5, 2025, bringing five days of independent film and culture to venues across Brooklyn. This year’s theme, Meet Us at the Movies, is an invitation to connect through film and share the experience with friends, filmmakers, and fellow movie lovers.
This year’s programming is a bold mix of big feelings and fresh perspectives — films that make you laugh, think, scream, feel seen, get inspired, and maybe even want to change the world. With nearly 100 films from New York and around the globe, the 2025 lineup includes 11 World Premieres, 10 East Coast Premieres, and 24 New York Premieres, showcasing bold new voices and unforgettable stories.
Festival Highlights
Todos Somos Justos — This gripping Chilean social thriller by Carlos Leiva transforms a quiet dinner party into a violent moral showdown. Exploring power, class, and justice with sharp tension, the film stars Paulina García and Andrew Bargsted. A winner of the Bolivia Lab and Dolby Grant, Todos makes its New York Premiere at BFF.
$HARE — A boundary-pushing web series about three women who inherit a British-Swiss mining empire — and dismantle it from the inside. Created by Swiss filmmaker Katja Meier, $HARE recently caught the attention of Better Call Saul star Rhea Seehorn, who joined as Executive Producer after its award-winning debut at SeriesFest.
67 Bombs to Enid — From Executive Producer Errol Morris, this powerful documentary centers on survivors of nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands and the legacy carried by their descendants.
The Color of Air — In this German feature, three siblings reunite to sell their childhood home — only to unearth a buried family history. The film makes its North American Premiere at BFF.
AT SEE — An innovative short that uses Open Audio Description to create a fully shared cinematic experience for blind and sighted audiences alike.
A Rare Grand Alignment — Directed by Cinqué Lee and featuring Roman Griffin Davis, Felix Jamieson, Charlie Price, and Kristofer Hivju. Set in 1982 Norway, three American boys become trapped in a cable car with a dead body during a rare celestial event. A haunting meditation on fear, friendship, and fate.
Drip Like Coffee — Directed by Anaiis Cisco, this lyrical Brooklyn romance follows two Black femme-identifying baristas navigating desire, identity, and emotional survival.
Honeyjoon — Winner of the Tribeca AT&T Untold Stories Award for $1million. Written and directed by Lilian T. Mehrel, this sexy emotional comedy follows Lela and her sensual daughter June on a funny, moving, deeply human journey through grief and rediscovery in the Azores.
Fireline — Directed by Robin Takao D’Oench and executive produced by Lena Waithe, this short follows an incarcerated firefighter caught between a deadly blaze and a justice system that won’t let him go.
Coroner to the Stars — A documentary portrait of Dr. Thomas Noguchi, Hollywood’s legendary coroner, who performed autopsies on Monroe, Kennedy, and other icons. A fascinating look at fame, forensics, and truth.
Slumlord Millionaire — A timely and urgent documentary on housing justice in NYC, following tenants and organizers fighting displacement in the face of gentrification.
Shorts Highlights
From the intimate to the epic, this year’s shorts explore big themes in small, unforgettable ways — with stories about identity, family, fear, and change. Short blocks highlights include:
Matriarch — Stories that reckon with the weight, warmth, and complexity of motherhood
For the Gworlies — A joyous tribute to friendship, chosen family, and unfiltered fun
The Art of Letting Go — Women breaking cycles and finding power in release
How to Fix Your Heart — Tales of heartbreak, hilarity, and healing
Strange Futures — Sci-fi shorts exploring the uncanny edges of tomorrow
In the Name of Justice — Grounded films about resilience, community, and the fight for fairness
Art / History — Shorts on creativity, memory, and legacy, anchored by The Art of Brotherly Love, a revival of the 1800 USS Ganges rescue of enslaved Africans.
October Comes with a Scream
On Saturday, October 4, BFF dives into horror with a lineup of scary and campy favorites — including Between Two Waves, a speculative ghost story about grief, memory, and what we can’t leave behind. The chills continue with two standout shorts blocks: Everyday Nightmares, which twists familiar spaces and relationships into unsettling tales, and Scream Queens, a campy collection of haunted sleepovers and toxic friendships.
Festival Events
In addition to screenings, BFF will host, Opening Night Blue Carpet & Reception, Industry Brunch, Comedy Night, Award-Winning Screenings
Tickets & Passes
Passes are available now at bushwickfilmfestival.com/tickets, including new options like, Film Friend Friday Pass, My BFF Pass, Group Chat Bundle. All passes include access to select screenings and special events.
Sponsors & Partners:
This year’s festival is made possible thanks to the support of our sponsors and partners, including Spectrum, Great Jones Distilling Co., Brooklyn Coop, Freelancer’s Union, DCP For All, World Owned, Lovejoys, The Birdhouse, Lot45, Streat Team, All Things Iceland, ZenBusiness, Adobe Express, Broadway Stages, and JolaHouse.
About the Bushwick Film Festival
The Bushwick Film Festival is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and MWBE-certified organization dedicated to discovering emerging voices and building community through film. One of the few U.S. festivals led by a woman of color, BFF draws over 5,000 attendees annually and features films from more than 60 countries.
Press Contacts:
Kerri-Ann Seredinsky | Big Picture Media
KerriAnn@BigPictureMediaOnline.com
Passes On Sale for the 18th Bushwick Film Fest I October 1–5, 2025 I Theme: Meet Me at the Movies
Brooklyn, NY — The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) returns October 1–5, 2025, for its 18th edition, bringing five days of independent film and culture to venues across Brooklyn. Film submissions are open until July 30, 2025.
This year’s theme, Meet Me at the Movies, is a celebration of friendship, connection, and the timeless joy of sharing stories. In a world that often pulls us in different directions, BFF continues to create space for people to come together — through film, culture, and meaningful experiences.
Whether it’s your BFF, your mom, the group chat, or someone you meet in the popcorn line, the Bushwick Film Festival offers a place to connect, discover new stories, and share them with the people who matter most.
“This year, we’re leaning into the impact of friendship and the power of connection,” says BFF Founder Kweighbaye Kotee. “We’re creating a festival experience that feels heartfelt, nostalgic, and highly visual. We want audiences to leave feeling more connected, creatively recharged, and reminded of how good it feels to share stories with people we love.”
Festival highlights include an opening night reception, nearly 100 short and feature films, a Festival Hub for industry networking and creative panels, and special events like Comedy Night, the Bushwick Crawl, the BFF Awards Ceremony, and more.
Festival passes are now on sale, including fun new options like our Film Friend Friday Pass, My BFF Pass, and Group Chat Bundle. The full film lineup drops September 1. Film Submissions are open until July 30,
For updates and passes, visit bushwickfilmfestival.com
Follow @bushwickfilmfest on Instagram
Press Inquiries: 347-450-3464 I press@bushwickfilmfestival.com
Press & Industry Accreditation: bushwickfilmfestival.com/industry-accreditation
About the Bushwick Film Festival
The Bushwick Film Festival is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and MWBE-certified organization dedicated to discovering emerging voices, sharing great stories, and building community through film. One of the few U.S. festivals led by a woman of color, BFF showcases 100 top indie films from over 60 countries and draws 5,000 attendees annually. With support from sponsors and elected officials, BFF offers free public programs, filmmaking workshops, and a five-day celebration of screenings, panels, and creative connection.
The 17th Annual Bushwick Film Festival Announces 2024 Winners
View Festival Photos Here
Brooklyn, NY – October 30, 2024 – The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) is thrilled to announce the winners of its 17th annual event, which celebrates outstanding independent storytelling across various genres. The awards ceremony took place on Saturday, October 19th, at Gracemoon Arts Theater Salon and Gallery.
This year, BFF continued its tradition of recognizing exceptional talent with awards in categories like Best Feature, Best Short, Best Episodic, Best Actor, and more. The winning films and performances told bold stories, showcased the independent spirit, and featured compelling characters that resonated with audiences.
The jurors for this year’s festival included industry leaders like Malcolm Barrett (Actor, Average Joe, Timeless ), Craig Butta (Founder/Producer, BASE 12, Ghost: RIte Here Rite Now), Nicole Emanuele (Producing Partner, Le Train Train Productions, Not Waving But Drowning), Vianni Novich (Executive at HBO, Nikki Glaser: Someday You’ll Die), Jika Gonzalez (Documentary Filmmaker, After The Flood), Cass Gardiner (Filmmaker, The Edible Indian), June Cross (Founder, professor at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism), Matt Thurm (Producer, Crown Heights), Molly O'Keefe (Producer, End of the Party), Justin Joseph Hall (Director/Founder, Fourwind Films & Quatre-Vents), Kavery Kaul (Director, Cuban Canvas), Natasha Florentino (Documentary Filmmaker, Abundant Land: Soil, Seeds and Sovereignty), Mike Prall (Producer, The Sound of Silence), Richie Doyle (Producer, Dad & Step-Dad), Clare O'Kane (Actor/Comedian/Writer, Saturday Night Live).
A full list of winners can be found below, and photos of each winner can be found through the LINK HERE.
Best Feature Narrative: Failed State directed by Christopher Jason Bell & Mitch Blummer
Feature Narrative Honorable Mention: Doubles directed by Ian K Harnarine
Best Feature Documentary: All We Carry directed by Cady Voge
Feature Documentary Honorable Mention: The Opener directed by Jeff Toye
Best Short Narrative: Tea directed by Blake Winston Rice
Short Narrative Honorable Mention: Super High: A Period Piece directed by Bianca Lambert
Best Short Documentary: David Again directed by Adam Elliott
Short Documentary Honorable Mention: Aliza Nisenbaum: Painting from Life directed by Ian Forster
Best Web Series: Dreams & Schemes directed by Daniel Fermín Pfeffer & Carlos Cardona
Web Series Honorable Mention: Cache Money directed by Bruno Dramatik
Best Performance Winner: Meagan Kimberly Smith (But He's Gay directed by Michael Calciano) Nominess: Dale Smith (Failed State), Joshua Rivera (Dreams & Schemes) Stéphanie Colle (My Tomato Heart), Darren Gilshenan (Jason Is My Dad)
This year’s theme, Producing The Dream, highlighted the journey of realizing a dream and celebrated the passion and effort it takes to achieve it. The festival screened nearly 100 films from Brooklyn and beyond, featuring a range of events including an Opening Night Yellow Carpet Reception presented by Netflix with cocktails by Johnnie Walker Blended Scotch Whisky, live screenings at Williamsburg Cinemas, a Comedy Night, a Screenplay Reading, an Industry Lunch, and an awards ceremony. The festival concluded on Sunday, October 20th, with a day of screenings of their award-winning films.
Since its founding, the Bushwick Film Festival has been a platform for emerging and underrepresented filmmakers, championing unique voices and bold storytelling. From global brands to beloved local businesses, we are incredibly grateful and humbled to have the support of the following 26 sponsors and supporters, all coming together to uplift talented filmmakers and create meaningful cultural experiences: Netlfix, Spectrum, Johnnie Walker, DCP For All, Lot 45, All Things Iceland, World Owned, Brooklyn Cooperative, Moxy Williamsburg, Gracemoon Arts Company , Broadway Stages, Lovejoys, FirstLive, Bushwick Print Lab, The Tiny Cupboard, The Bird House Salon, Be Electric Studios, Artichoke Pizza, Abe's Pagoda Bar, Inca Chicken, Brooklyn Comedy Collective Tony’s Pizzeria Ollie’s Ice Cream.
About the Bushwick Film Festival:
The Bushwick Film Festival is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to discover emerging voices, share great stories, and build community through the power of film. As an MWBE organization, we are proud to be part of the 12% of film festivals in the U.S. that are owned by women of color. With over 1000 yearly film submissions from 60+ countries, the festival draws 5000 attendees and features the top 100 indie films from NYC and beyond. BFF has received recognition from City and State Elected officials for its significant contribution to Brooklyn's cultural, artistic, and economic growth.With the generous support of partners and sponsors, the festival offers free public programming and filmmaking initiatives designed to empower and uplift underrepresented storytellers in the Brooklyn community.
Connect with the Bushwick Film Festival:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bushwickfilmfest
X: https://x.com/BushwickFilm
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BushwickFilmFestival/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bushwickfilmfest
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCho76RKwKp12jb6W_LkBnmg
Press Contacts:
Samantha LaPare | Big Picture Media
Sam@BigPictureMediaOnline.com
Kerri-Ann Seredinsky | Big Picture Media
KerriAnn@BigPictureMediaOnline.com
17th Annual Bushwick Film Festival | Tickets On Sale Now
17th Annual Bushwick Film Festival
Tickets On Sale Now
October 16-20, 2024
Festival Theme Producing The Dream + Welcoming New Sponsor
Brooklyn, NY – September 19, 2024 – Tickets for the 17th Bushwick Film Festival are now on sale, with the event running from October 16-20, 2024. This year’s theme, “Producing The Dream,” explores what it takes to bring dreams to life, celebrating the artistry and effort that filmmakers pour into their work to reflect our shared stories. To purchase tickets, please visit: https://www.bushwickfilmfestival.com/tickets
The festival is also thrilled to announce Netflix as a sponsor for the opening night event, which will kick off an exciting week of films and events for filmmakers and audiences alike.
“When Netflix opened studios in Bushwick, it was a huge moment for our community and filmmakers,” said festival founder Kweighbaye Kotee. “Partnering with them this year feels like a natural fit, and we’re excited to work together.”
“We are thrilled to support the community and local filmmakers at this year's Bushwick Film Festival. We look forward to a fantastic festival that will showcase the creativity and diversity of storytelling in Brooklyn and worldwide,” added Nick Maniatis, Netflix Director of Studio and Production Policy, US and Canada.
As Bushwick continues to grow as a hub for emerging talent, the Bushwick Film Festival remains dedicated to showcasing fresh voices often overlooked by larger festivals. This year’s program features nearly 100 films selected from close to 1,000 submissions, signaling a near return to pre-pandemic levels. Audiences will be taken on a journey through stories of dreamers, creators, lovers, and everyday heroes. From comedies about breakups to heartwarming tales of resilience, explorations of technology and AI, and suspenseful thrillers, the lineup captures the ways our lives are interconnected and how we shape each other’s paths.
In addition to the opening night and film screenings, the festival will host special events such as an industry luncheon, comedy night, screenplay reading, and live performances of film scores. The awards night and reception will present categories including Best Feature, Best Short, Best Screenplay, Audience Choice, and more. The festival will close on Sunday, October 20th, with a showcase of award-winning films.
The festival would like to thank its long-standing community partners Spectrum, Broadway Stages, Brooklyn Coop, Lot 45, World Owned; hotel partner Moxy Williamsburg; and a growing list of local small businesses.
You can find a program overview and a full list of selected films below and at the LINK HERE..
Short Narrative and Series Blocks:
This film collection captures a wide range of life experiences, from family dynamics to magical moments, and features stories about resilience, second chances, and unexpected challenges.
Courage https://bit.ly/3XxeNVx
Be careful what you wish for https://bit.ly/3Xue2wG
Family Compass https://bit.ly/3MP9ZWJ
Somewhere Over The Rainbow https://bit.ly/4eqkIm9
Good Company https://bit.ly/3zoNiFJ
Women on The Verge of a Nervous…Breakthrough https://bit.ly/3zoYja2
Whatever It Takes https://bit.ly/4go0kEh
Queer Hearts https://bit.ly/3zbIyU4
Everyday Hustle https://bit.ly/4eqnyHY
Short Doc Blocks:
This documentary collection dives into cultural and community anchors, resilience, and the fight for justice. It also includes "The Artist’s Way," which showcases how artists use creativity to navigate and make sense of the world around them.
Dream Keepers https://bit.ly/3MODvvO
The Path of Resistance https://bit.ly/3XN4Lkv
The Artist Way https://bit.ly/3XRbytO
Feature Docs and Narratives
From the struggles of refugees to humorous family stories and explorations of technology, this collection showcases human resilience and how people confront adversity in an ever-changing world.
Double Mini-Feature: White Buffalo Presents & The Big Raise https://bit.ly/3Xt2F85
Or Something https://bit.ly/3B5vgJk
The Beldham https://bit.ly/47DVgHW
A Fantastic Relationship https://bit.ly/3Bi3c5g
Doubles with Slight Pepper https://bit.ly/3Ty2erW
The Strangers' Case https://bit.ly/4ddtO4W
A Little Family Drama https://bit.ly/4enqxAM
Failed State https://bit.ly/4eu7kgU
All We Carry https://bit.ly/3XNKsDE
I Hope This Helps! https://bit.ly/47vvllu
Searching for Satoshi: The Mysterious Disappearance of the Bitcoin Creator (Feature) https://bit.ly/3XvPx2f
The Opener https://bit.ly/3Nb1NR3
Director’s Cut https://bit.ly/3XQkPC7
Press and industry accreditations, select tickets, and passes for the 17th Annual Bushwick Film Festival are now available at www.bushwickfilmfestival.com.
About the Bushwick Film Festival:
The Bushwick Film Festival is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to discover emerging voices, share great stories, and build community through the power of film. As an MWBE organization, we are proud to be part of the 12% of film festivals in the U.S. that are owned by women of color. With over 1000 yearly film submissions from 60+ countries, the festival draws 5000 attendees and features the top 100 indie films from NYC and beyond. BFF has received recognition from City and State Elected officials for its significant contribution to Brooklyn's cultural, artistic, and economic growth. With the generous support of our partners and sponsors, we are able to expand our free public programming and develop filmmaking programs specifically designed to empower and uplift underrepresented storytellers in the Brooklyn community.
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Call for Submissions: The 17th Annual Bushwick Film Festival: Producing The Dream
The 17th Annual Bushwick Film Festival
“Producing The Dream”
Set for October 16-20, 2024
Last Call for Film Submissions:
Extended Deadline August 15, 2024
Brooklyn, NY – July 31, 2024 – The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) is thrilled to announce its 17th annual event, scheduled for October 16-20, 2024. The submission deadline has been extended to August 15, 2024, and filmmakers can submit their entries through the festival’s website at www.bushwickfilmfestival.com/submit.
This year’s theme, "ProducingThe Dream," is about exploring what it takes to realize a dream, and celebrating the incredible artistry, effort, and creativity that filmmakers pour into their creative work to reflect our stories.
Since its founding, the Bushwick Film Festival has been a cornerstone for emerging and underrepresented filmmakers, providing a stage where unique voices can be heard and dreams can take flight. "We are excited to spotlight the dedication and passion that filmmakers pour into their work," said festival founder Kweighbaye Kotee. “We hope audiences are moved by the stories on screen and inspired to take action in producing their own dreams.”
In addition to film screenings, the 17th Annual Bushwick Film Festival will feature Creative Community Day with industry panels, workshops, and neighborhood pop-ups, Youth Film Screenings showcasing high school talent and discussions on youth issues, Comedy Night with stand-up comedians and writers, Live Music with beloved film scores, and an Awards Night and Closing Party celebrating cinematic achievements, culminating in a finale showcasing all the award-winning films.
The festival will also continue its tradition of recognizing exceptional talent through various awards in both doc and narrative, including Best Feature, Best Short, Best Screenplay, Best Actor, Audience Choice Award, Programmers Choice, and more.
Press and industry accreditations, select tickets, and passes for the 17th Annual Bushwick Film Festival are now available on their website. Additional details on selected films, a programming schedule and more will be forthcoming. For more information please visit www.bushwickfilmfestival.com.
About the Bushwick Film Festival:
The Bushwick Film Festival is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to discover emerging voices, share great stories, and build community through the power of film. As an MWBE organization, we are proud to be part of the 12% of film festivals in the U.S. that are owned by women of color. With over 1000 yearly film submissions from 60+ countries, the festival draws 5000 attendees and features the top 100 indie films from NYC and beyond. BFF has received recognition from City and State Elected officials for its significant contribution to Brooklyn's cultural, artistic, and economic growth. With the generous support of our partners and sponsors, we are able to expand our free public programming and develop filmmaking programs specifically designed to empower and uplift underrepresented storytellers in the Brooklyn community.
The 16th Annual Bushwick Film Festival Announces Award Winning Films
AWARDED $10,000 THROUGH STAND FOR THE ARTS AWARDS BY SPECTRUM AND OVATION TV
FEATURED ON NY1, DEADLINE, HYPERALLERGIC, GOTHAMIST, BROOKLYN MAGAZINE, BK READER, NEWS 12 BROOKLYN, PIX 11, NBC-4 AND MORE
November 8, 2023 (Brooklyn, NY) – The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) celebrated its 16th edition this year from October 25th – October 29th, screening over 125+ films from Brooklyn and around the world. The festival included live screenings hosted by Williamsburg Cinemas, an Opening Night Red Carpet Reception, presented by Spectrum with specialty cocktails by Johnnie Walker Blended Scotch Whisky, on October 25th at Brooklyn Borough Hall. For the third consecutive year, Johnnie Walker has been a proud sponsor of the Bushwick Film Festival, demonstrating its commitment to nurturing storytellers, championing diversity, and encouraging bold strides forward. Other festival events included a Movie Industry Conference held at Be Electric Studios featuring engaging panel discussions and a lively Sweet 16 Party at Lot 45.
The festival culminated with an award ceremony this past Sunday, October 29th where over 10 films and filmmakers received awards. The award winners told bold stories, embodied the independent spirit, and featured extraordinary characters that reveal tales of change, self-discovery, and transitions into new phases of life.
This year’s jurors included Theo Rigby, (Founder/Director, iNation Media ), Danelle Eliav (Producer, Menashe, and Omara), Melody C Roscher (Writer/Director/Producer, Martha Marcy May Marlene and White Wedding), Petra Ahmann (Executive Producer, Silverline Cinema), Amenya Makuku (Head of Development and Production with Courtney Lee Mitchell's 4TH Power Films (KINDRED with FX; in development on UNCATCHABLE with Apple and Appian Way)), Courtney Andrialis-Vincent (Former VP, Production Management for Warner Bros Discovery Sports & Bleacher Report), Niki Williams (Senior Manager, Production & Development, Nickelodeon), and Kweighbaye Kotee (producer, Starlit Pictures, BFF Founder)
Below is the full list of winners:
FEATURE NARRATIVE CATEGORY
Best Feature Narrative
Darla in Space
Director: Susie Moon, Eric Laplante
Special Jury Prize
Bittersweet
Director: Haroldo Borges
Honorable Mention
Playing Sam
Director: Ramon Felipe Pesante
SHORT NARRATIVE CATEGORY
Best Short Narrative
The Old Young Crow
Director: Liam LoPinto
Special Jury Prize
The Vacation
Director: Jarreau Carrillo
Honorable Mention
Bodies Will Tumble and Roll
Director: Eli Vazquez
FEATURE DOCUMENTARY CATEGORY
Best Feature Doc
Storming Caesar's Palace
Director: Hazel Gurland-Pooler
Special Jury Prize
Estamos Unidos
Director: Alvaro Manuel Morales
Honorable Mention
Esu and The Universe
Director: Thiago Zanato
SHORT SERIES CATEGORY
Best Series
Story of Godia
Director: Mouayed Zabtia
Special Jury Prize
Awesome
Director: Paul Munger
Honorable Mention
Monologue
Director: Nick Clifford, Stef Smith
During the Opening Night Ceremony, Ovation TV awarded the Bushwick Film Festival a $10,000 check through the Stand For The Arts Awards, a partnership with Spectrum that recognizes local arts, cultural, and educational organizations and programs. Since the initiative started in 2017, Ovation TV and Spectrum have given out 70 awards totaling $700,000 towards arts education. Bushwick Film Festival is one of 10 organizations receiving support in Spectrum markets across the country. Select arts organizations are awarded $10,000 Stand For The Arts contributions based on the following criteria: support of creatives and artists via community-driven programming; as advocates for equity and access to the arts; and for providing accessible spaces for creative expression.
(Photo Credit: Dexterity Productions)
Over the past 16 years, BFF has showcased the works of nearly 1000 independent filmmakers from Brooklyn and more than 50 different countries. The BFF has evolved into one of Brooklyn's most highly anticipated cinematic events and is celebrated for its significant contributions to the borough's artistic, cultural, and economic development.
The 16th Annual Bushwick Film Festival gratefully acknowledges the generous contributions of our sponsors, partners, grant benefactors and patrons:
Spectrum, Johnnie Walker, Ovation TV, Brooklyn Borough Hall, Pushing Forward Realty, Circa Brewing Co., Broadway Stages, Williamsburg Cinemas, Lot 45, World Owned, Be Electric Studios, Master Card, NAACP, Self-Portrait Project, Hello Alice, and IfundWomen donors.
About Bushwick Film Festival
The Bushwick Film Festival is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to discover emerging voices, share great stories, and build community through the power of film. As an MWBE organization, we are proud to be part of the 12% of film festivals in the U.S. that are owned by women of color. With over 1000 yearly film submissions from 60+ countries, the festival draws 5000 attendees and features the top 100 indie films from NYC and beyond. In addition to film screenings, the five-day festival includes a red-carpet opening, a movie industry conference, networking events, a screenplay competition, and a closing night awards ceremony.
The Bushwick Film Festival has received recognition from City and State Elected officials for its significant contribution to Brooklyn's cultural, artistic, and economic growth. With the generous support of our partners and sponsors, we are able to expand our free public programming and develop filmmaking programs specifically designed to empower and uplift underrepresented storytellers in the Brooklyn community.
About Johnnie Walker
Johnnie Walker is the world's number one Scotch Whisky brand (IWSR 2022 in value) enjoyed by people in over 180 countries around the world. Since the time of its founder, John Walker, those who blend its whiskies have pursued flavor and quality above all else.
Today's range of award-winning whiskies includes Johnnie Walker Red Label, Black Label, Double Black, Green Label, Gold Label Reserve, Aged 18 Years, and Blue Label. Together they account for over 21 million cases sold annually (IWSR, 2022), making Johnnie Walker the most popular Scotch Whisky brand in the world.
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Watch the Opening Night Video HERE
Download High Res Photos from the Opening Night Ceremony HERE (Credit: Dexterity Productions)
Download High Res Photos from Screenings HERE (Credit: Chris Kammerud)
View Opening Night Photo Booth Photos HERE
Press Contact:
Stephanie Estrada | Big Picture Media
C: 562.685.6707 | Stephanie@BigPictureMediaOnline.com
Samantha LaPare | Big Picture Media
C: 973.461.9345 | Sam@BigPictureMediaOnline.com
16th Annual Bushwick Film Festival Kicks Off Next Week Oct 25-29
Brazilian Film "Bittersweet Rain" Makes It’s US Premiere
Featuring World Premieres of Young Gun, Sage, Hairpiece and more
October 25, 2023 (Brooklyn, NY) – The 16th Annual Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) is set to kick off next Wednesday, marking its 16th anniversary with an exciting lineup of films that embody the theme of "Sweet Sixteen."
As the festival unfolds, audiences will embark on cinematic journeys that delve into the profound nuances of coming-of-age, self-realization, and the search for autonomy. While turning 16 traditionally symbolizes growth and exploration, the festival reminds us that transformative moments can occur at any age. This year, BFF invites audiences to reflect on their own stories and defining experiences, as our carefully curated films shine a spotlight on pivotal narratives that reveal tales of change, self-discovery, and transitions into new phases of life.
With over 125+ films chosen this year from over 1000+ submissions, there are a handful of films that will be premiering for the first time at this year’s Bushwick Film Festival.
The critically acclaimed Brazilian film, Bittersweet Rain (Saudade Fez Morada Aqui Dentro), will be making its highly anticipated US premiere on the final day of the festival, Sunday, October 29th. This evocative coming-of-age tale explores the challenges of adolescence and the resilience of the human spirit while addressing themes of visual impairment and the LGBTQ+ experience in a small community. Partnering with The Bolivia Lab, a renowned institution dedicated to promoting South American films globally, the BFF looks forward to showcasing more Ibero-American cinema and fostering collaborations across regions.
The narrative feature film, Young Gun, will also be making its world premiere at the festival on Saturday, October 28th. The story follows an illegal immigrant father struggling to make ends meet when he accepts a contract to assassinate the UK branch leader of the KKK during a karaoke event. He confronts a maze of twisted challenges that test his survival instincts while striving to prove his devotion as a father.
The festival will be housing the world premiers of The Foreign Patriot, Q Train, Little Boxes, Sage, Hairpiece, Bushwick Jodi, The North American Premiere of Webseries Monologue, and the New York Premieres of A Real One, Andrew After Angola and Beat, to name a few.
Some additional film highlights from this year include:
Artist Unknown: a romantic comedy feature film that follows the story of Juniper, an insecure martial artist, who must find out the origins of a painting after two thieves try to steal it from her.
Darla in Space: a sci-fi comedy feature film that follows the story of Darla as she attempts to pay off a huge tax debt with the aid of a sentient, orgasm-granting kombucha mother.
All The Songs We Never Sang: a drama feature film that follows the story of Natsumi as she ventures from Tokyo to a small provincial island where her aunt Reiko lives. Reiko is an Ama-San, a traditional Japanese pearl diver who has been at odds with Natsumi’s mother, her twin sister, for years and has never met Natsumi before. The young girl has to find a way to heal those old wounds, reunite her family, and save herself from some big trouble she gets herself in.
Storming Caesar's Palace: a documentary that shares the story of how a group of ordinary low-income mothers launched an extraordinary grassroots movement for economic justice and Black women’s empowerment in the 1960s and 1970s. This film reveals the roots of today’s movements, highlighting the experiences of Black women organizers from one of the most challenging and forgotten feminist, anti-poverty movements in our history, and places it in the limelight, where it will inspire, embolden and honor the women whose courage, tenacity and dreams could not be quashed, against all odds.
Playing Sam: a narrative feature film that follows Samantha after a devastating breakup as she picks up the pieces to her broken heart and acting career to rediscover her essence as a modern Latinx actress.
Halloween (Psychological): it is time for spooky season! This collection of short films delve into the darker realms of human experience, offering spine-tingling tales that explore unsettling aspects of the psyche. With eerie atmospheres and unexpected twists, they will keep you engaged and intrigued.
Web Series: a collection of diverse stories of a variety of individuals as they navigate life’s complexities.
Through the Fire: a collection of shorts that take us on an inspiring cinematic journey that shows us that even in our darkest moments, there's always something for the better.
NY in Transit: a shorts block that features films with characters embarking on unique journeys, whether they're heading somewhere physically or experiencing new stages emotionally and psychologically, all within the ever-evolving backdrop of New York City.
Control: Life Unscripted: a collection of stories that revolve around characters who believe they have life firmly under their grasp, only to be confronted by unexpected twists and turns. In these films, the concept of control takes center stage, serving as a backdrop for humorous, poignant, and sometimes even shocking moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
For a full list of film programming highlights, visit the website, www.bushwickfilmfestival.com.
In addition to the films and awards ceremony, the festival will feature a variety of different events including the Opening Night Red Carpet Reception, presented by Spectrum, on October 25th at Brooklyn Borough Hall, where guests can enjoy specialty cocktails by Johnnie Walker Blended Scotch Whisky. Additionally, there will be a Movie Industry Conference held at Be Electric Studios and a lively Sweet 16 Party at Lot 45.
The Movie Industry Conference offers a full day of networking opportunities, featuring two engaging panel discussions. "Film and AI: The Next Chapter" explores AI's evolving role in streamlining production processes and shaping creative decisions. "Strike: Unraveling the Economics of the Film Industry" delves into the economic challenges exposed by recent strikes and examines the historical economics of the industry, while envisioning future sustainability.
Over the past 16 years, BFF has showcased the works of nearly 1000 independent filmmakers from Brooklyn and more than 50 different countries. The BFF has evolved into one of Brooklyn's most highly anticipated cinematic events and is celebrated for its significant contributions to the borough's artistic, cultural, and economic development. Among the 125+ films featured in this year's programming, approximately 5 filmmakers will be honored with awards across various categories such as Best Feature (Narrative/Doc), Best Short (Doc/Narrative), and Best Web Series.
Tickets and Passes to the 16th Annual Bushwick Film Festival are now available at www.bushwickfilmfestival.com
For press and industry accreditation, please visit:
https://www.bushwickfilmfestival.com/industry-accreditation
About Bushwick Film Festival
The Bushwick Film Festival is a crucial platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work to a diverse and global audience, both in New York City and internationally. With over 1000 yearly film submissions from 60+ countries, the festival draws 3,500 attendees annually and showcases the top 100 indie films from NYC and beyond. In addition to screenings, the five-day festival in October features a red-carpet opening, a movie industry conference, networking events, a screenplay competition, and a closing night awards ceremony.
City and State Elected officials have awarded the BFF for its contribution to Brooklyn’s cultural, artistic, and economic growth. Generous support from prominent organizations Spectrum/Charter Communications, Delta Airlines, Popsugar, Johnnie Walker, Caress, B&H Photo, Canon, Master Card, Hello Alice, IFundWomen, LVR, and local organizations has allowed the festival to: expand its public programming, and develop filmmaking programs for underrepresented storytellers in Brooklyn and West Africa.
As an MWBE organization, the festival belongs to the minority of only 12% of film festivals owned by women of color in the U.S.
Press Contact:
Stephanie Estrada | Big Picture Media
C: 562.685.6707 | Stephanie@BigPictureMediaOnline.com
Samantha LaPare | Big Picture Media
C: 973.461.9345 | Sam@BigPictureMediaOnline.com
Tickets on Sale for the 16th Annual Bushwick Film Festival October 25th - 29th
Beloved Film Festival Returns for 5 days of Live Screenings, Special Events, and more!
FEATURING OVER 125+ INDEPENDENT FILMS FROM BROOKLYN AND AROUND THE WORLD
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW
September 15, 2023 (Brooklyn, NY) – The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) is excited to announce it will celebrate its 16th anniversary from October 25th - October 29th. Inspired by the notion of the "Sweet Sixteen," a time of personal growth, self-discovery, and newfound independence, this year’s festival theme revolves around exploring and embracing our passage into life’s next chapter, through cinema. Tickets to its 16th anniversary edition are now available at www.bushwickfilmfestival.com.
The festival is excited to continue its partnership with Williamsburg Cinemas where all festival films will be screened. To celebrate its Sweet 16, this year, audiences will delve into the themes of coming-of-age, self-realization, and the quest for personal freedom, all captured beautifully through the cinematic lens. The selected films will embody these narratives, offering stories of transformation, the pursuit of identity, and the leap into a new stage of life.
“Turning 16 traditionally symbolizes growth and discovery, but these transformative moments are not bound by age,” shares founder, Kweighbaye Kotee. “We find defining moments at every juncture and during every transition. As we usher in the 16th Bushwick Film Festival, we're celebrating more than just cinema; we're embracing the journey, the lessons, and the stories that have brought us here. Here's to life’s defining chapters and the many stories that intertwine with them.”
The festival not only features an exciting lineup of films but also offers a range of special events. These include the Opening Night Redcarpet Reception, presented by Spectrum, on October 25th at Brooklyn Borough Hall, where guests can enjoy specialty cocktails by Johnnie Walker Blended Scotch Whisky. Additionally, there will be a Movie Industry Conference held at Be Electric Studios and a lively Sweet 16 Party at Lot 45.
The Movie Industry Conference promises a full day of enriching experiences, including panel discussions and conversations designed for industry professionals and filmmakers seeking valuable insights and networking opportunities. It provides attendees with a unique chance to connect with like-minded professionals and expand their network.
Over the past 16 years, BFF has showcased the works of nearly 1000 independent filmmakers from Brooklyn and more than 50 different countries. The BFF has evolved into one of Brooklyn's most highly anticipated cinematic events and is celebrated for its significant contributions to the borough's artistic, cultural, and economic development. Among the 125+ films featured in this year's programming, approximately 10 filmmakers will be honored with awards across various categories such as Best Feature (Narrative/Doc), Best Short (Doc/Narrative), Best Web Series, and more.
Film programming highlights can be found below, as well as on our website, www.bushwickfilmfestival.com:
Halloween-inspired movie night: Campy Horrors, Thrillers and Supernatural
Psychological https://bit.ly/3RqYpor
Campy https://bit.ly/48lv6th
Supernatural https://bit.ly/3PnI7Kb
NY Stories
Shorts Block: NY Coming of Age https://bit.ly/3LsuQ1H
Shorts Block: NY In Transit https://bit.ly/3LuMKAZ
Social Justice
Shorts Block: Being and Belonging https://bit.ly/45TJqaJ
Shorts Block: Politics of Identity https://bit.ly/3EJtwUs
Shorts Block: Dreams and Sacrifices https://bit.ly/3ZmJZHD
Shorts Block: Through The Fire https://bit.ly/44ZDJXs
Andrew from Angola https://bit.ly/44ZDJXs
Stories about Love
Shorts Block: Heart Strings https://bit.ly/3EHLQNF
Shorts Block Heavy Hearts https://bit.ly/3LuMtxX
Must See Features
Artist Uknown https://bit.ly/3PhPv9Y
Darla in Space https://bit.ly/3EPI7O5
Young Gun https://bit.ly/4529E9Q
Playing Sam https://bit.ly/46gqaE9
All The Songs We Never Sang https://bit.ly/3Pg4K3e
Webseries
Tickets and Passes to the 16th Annual Bushwick Film Festival are now available at www.bushwickfilmfestival.com
For press and industry accreditation, please visit:
https://www.bushwickfilmfestival.com/industry-accreditation
About Bushwick Film Festival
The Bushwick Film Festival is a crucial platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work to a diverse and global audience, both in New York City and internationally. With over 1000 yearly film submissions from 60+ countries, the festival is expecting over 5000 attendees and showcases the top 100 new emerging voices from NYC and beyond. In addition to screenings, the five-day festival in October features a red-carpet opening, a movie industry conference, networking events, a screenplay competition, and a closing night awards ceremony.
City and State Elected officials have awarded the BFF for its contribution to Brooklyn’s cultural, artistic, and economic growth. Generous support from prominent organizations Spectrum/Charter Communications, Delta Airlines, Popsugar, Johnnie Walker, Caress, B&H Photo, Canon, Master Card, Hello Alice, IFundWomen, LVR, and local organizations has allowed the festival to: expand its public programming, and develop filmmaking programs for underrepresented storytellers in Brooklyn and West Africa.
As an MWBE organization, the festival belongs to the minority of only 12% of film festivals owned by women of color in the U.S.
Press Contact:
Stephanie Estrada | Big Picture Media
C: 562.685.6707 | Stephanie@BigPictureMediaOnline.com
Samantha LaPare | Big Picture Media
C: 973.461.9345 | Sam@BigPictureMediaOnline.com