American Black Film Festival (ABFF) 2023 Announces Selections For Annual HBO Short Film Award
The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) recently announced the selection of finalists who will compete in its Annual HBO® Short Film Award Showcase. The 27th annual ABFF will take place in Miami Beach June 14-18 and will be available to a global audience June 19-25 on ABFF PLAY.
Winners of the 2023 independent film awards and talent contest winners will be presented during the Best of the ABFF Awards hosted by Emmy-nominated actor/author Dondré Whitfield, Saturday, June 17, in the Miami Beach Convention Center. Sirius XM’s Bevy Smith (Bevelations) will host the HBO Showcase. ABFF is proud to be a qualifying festival for the Academy Awards® Short Film Awards.
Now in its 26th year, the HBO Short Film Award, sponsored by HBO and Warner Bros. Discovery, is regarded as one of the most prestigious short film showcases in the world. Five filmmakers are selected as finalists, one grand prize winner will be presented with the HBO Short Film Award and a cash prize of $10,000.
Among Previous winners include 2022’s Sherif Alabede, 2018’s Alfonso Johnson, 2016’s Nikyatu Jusu, 2015’s Solvan ‘Slick’ Naim, 2013’s Steven Caple, Jr., 2011’s Ryan Coogler, 2008’s Rashaad Ernesto Green, 1998’s Christine Swanson
The following films represent the finalists for the 2023 HBO Short Film Award.
Fathead
When one of the last free children of Junkyard Paradise has her brother stolen away from her, no ragamuffin army or vicious beasts will stop her from getting him back.
Written and Directed by: c. Craig Patterson
Jelly
Jelly is a young Black girl in Bed-stuy with a peculiar fascination with death. While trying to solve the mysterious case of a missing neighbor, she comes to terms with a more personal disappearance. Narrated by André Holland.
Written and Directed by: Anndi Jinelle Liggett
Recovery Chain
After being evicted by his mother, a rebellious teen must adapt to life with his distant father and his father’s new family.
Written and Directed by: Quamé A. Hamlin
Jerome
Basketball connects Jerome to his long-absent father, though not in the ways he wishes. As he wrestles with his own concept of family, he must confront his father's legacy on and off the court.
Written and Directed by: Gianfranco Fernández-Ruiz
Radio Silence
As a successful radio DJ, Tracey made a career out of her love for music and its connection to the human experience. But when confronted with her mother’s illness, she is forced to reevaluate her own life. Divided between the hauntingly beautiful memories of her past, fears of the future and the painful realities of her present, she gives herself the ultimate challenge - a broadcast of reconciliation.
Written by: Nakia Secrest Directed by: Ric Serena