Nashville Hosts International Black Film Festival: A Celebration of Stories and Creatives
This past weekend, the vibrant city of Nashville became the gathering place for film lovers and storytellers as the International Black Film Festival (IBFFN) took center stage from October 2-5. Filmmakers, actors, and fans mingled and celebrated a diverse array of films and documentaries showcasing incredible storytelling.
A Hub of Creativity
The festival was held at several venues throughout Nashville, with the R. Milton and Denice Johnson Center at Belmont University being a key location. It was a special chance for moviegoers to not only view films but also engage with the creative minds behind them in dynamic question-and-answer sessions.
This year’s festival theme, ‘Who’s Gonna Tell Them? Breaking Barriers Through Knowing Your Story,’ resonated deeply with attendees. The IBFFN aimed to prompt discussions about the barriers that often confine people’s thinking and behaviors, allowing for a broader understanding of the stories that need to be told.
A Community United
Hazel Joyner-Smith, the founder and organizer of the IBFFN, expressed her enthusiasm and gratitude for the event. “We are deeply humbled to have been a part of this journey for 19 years. This festival has built a vibrant family of creatives, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts, all united by a passion for storytelling through film and TV,” she said.
Diverse Stories on Display
The festival kicked off with several short films, including The McFaltons, directed by Lance Montgomery. This poignant story centers on a successful married couple grappling with unresolved issues in their relationship. Cast member Lori Livingston emphasized the importance of sharing such narratives within the Black community, “It’s a story that needed to be told, especially in the Black community. Everyone is always looking for that next black love story, that next Black love couple. It’s not always roses. It’s not always going to be happy. I think the way Lance Montgomery is bringing it to me was authentic.”
Livingston continued, highlighting that the film successfully addressed how families can work through their struggles. “We’re just human, and all Black women are not angry, and all Black men are not aggressive. We do have families, genuine love for one another, and we can work things out in a peaceful manner,” she said.
Documentaries that Inspire
Among the many highlights was the documentary I am Hope, directed by Shaka Jamal. It captures a unique initiative in which individuals come together to offer a yoga and mindfulness class in the Oakland, California Unified School District Middle Schools. Although the journey to complete the film was challenging due to budget constraints and the pandemic, Jamal remained committed, stating, “I had to find a way to get the kids’ attention for a 90-minute yoga class.”
An Experience to Remember
The atmosphere throughout the festival was electric, buzzing with creativity and passion for storytelling. Each film and documentary shared at the IBFFN did more than just entertain; they played a vital role in opening up conversations and encouraging viewers to reflect on their own stories.
As the festival concluded, it left behind a sense of unity and collective purpose among all who participated. The International Black Film Festival not only showcased exceptional films but also created an engaged community committed to amplifying marginalized voices and celebrating the power of storytelling.
From the gripping narratives to the heartfelt discussions, Nashville’s IBFFN has once again proven to be a highlight on the calendar for film enthusiasts and creatives alike!
