Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the San Diego Black Film Association is proud to present this year's festival selections. I just got back to San Diego, and I admit it - I am ecstatic that there is a Black Film Foundation in San Diego, and doubly excited about the Film Festival.
SDBFF was founded in 2002. I was in Santa Barbara attending the University of California at the time, so to return to my beloved city and find that there is not only a voice for black film makers, but that it is going 10 years long and strong in the San Diego.
These movies come in a variety that meshes sophisticated with simple. This year is a celebration of blackness exploring "African American and African Diaspora cinema" from their feature film, Joe Frazier (When the Smoke Clears), about Joe Frazier's life and career. There is also a wonderfully refreshing take on the second coming of Jesus Christ via the creation of a clone in The Custom Mary.
I personally can't wait to see some of the film shorts, including Our Rhineland, a 17 minute short about two women who fight against the location and sterilization of Germans with African heritage, which is one of those provocative subjects waiting to be addressed on a just such a platform. These are three of the 132 titles presenting and premiering in the 2012 Film Festival.
The Big 8, (SDBFF's top picks - including Joe Frazier and The Custom Mary) are scheduled throughout, though the Panel Discussions are only taking place on Saturday from Noon to 4p.m. This year, there is a "pitch" panel discussion for those who would like their screenplays read (and hopefully sold soon after).
Now, SDBFF is also known for their non-film functions, and this year is proving to be no different. On Friday, January 27th at 10pm is the Shaft Superfly Party, a tradition for SDBFF. Don that gear and get groovy at "the baddest and hippest 1970's soul/disco party around". On Saturday the 28th The Red Carpet Reception, Awards Dinner & Gala (hosted by actress Robin Givens), and the Anniversary Party will all take place. Movie Tickets and Party Passes can all be purchased here and at the SDBFF ticket window.
San Diego Black Film Festival Office Address:
220 West G Street
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 685-7215
letter@sdbff.com
Considering that the San Diego Black Film Festival is now the second largest film festival in the country, I am honestly proud be be back home and can't wait to watch the films, and volunteer in 2013!
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