2023 BronzeLens Festival Guide

We are looking forward to seeing the people behind the amazing films that we are screening for this year’s BronzeLens Film Festival. You are clearly talented storytellers with work worthy of sharing. You also are reflecting the complexity and reality of our lives with unbounded imagination.

This year there were several themes that emerged. I was fascinated to see how the future was depicted with a multi-cultural lens. Sometimes reality morphs into horror. As the news covers attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion our filmmakers were on the case examining micro-aggressions in the workplace. Those films were relatable and even hilarious.

We will see the world-wide phenomena of Black boys literally fighting to grow up whether in Haiti, Australia, the UK, or the US. These films are ringing an alarm.

Looking for love and all that comes with it is captured in some of the films that we will see. Hip Hop has woven itself into stories in a very creative way. It has certainly made an impact on Atlanta. Definitely the South has something to say.

Those are just a few of the themes. There is so much more.

And of course, our panels, curated by Melissa Randle, are intended to provide tangible information that will be of value to you.

Our fantastic team has worked tirelessly to prepare a wonderful experience for our filmmakers and attendees. The bottom line is that we want you all to feel Inspired, Enlightened, and Empowered.

As I love to say - Welcome to the BronzeLens Family!

Deidre McDonald Founding Artistic Director BronzeLens Film Festival

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FILMING DISCLAIMER:

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ATALI’I O LE CREZENT (SONS OF THE CREZENT)

DANCE | 10:49

With his neighbourhood in South Auckland under threat from gentrification, a young man recalls his youth, his roots and his upbringing through spoken word memories and dance. The film is a kaleidoscopic blend of emotion, nostalgia, humour and tenderness all woven together across scenes of dance and play.

Friday, AUG 25 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

DANCE IN CIRCLES

DANCE | 8:55

Two young women, Feng and Flora, perform a dance duet. Their movements begin in synchronization, but as it progresses, Feng becomes more frantic while Flora remains reserved. Through their duet, Feng relives a hate crime she experienced at a bus stop, as Flora remembers a sexual assault she faced in an elevator.

Friday, AUG 25 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

FORMULA

DANCE | 3:03

FORMULA, is a cinedance about the interactive process of light art installation and dance. Dancer interacts with the lights by induction and programming.

Friday, AUG 25 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

I(N)FINITE

DANCE | 4:45

i(n)finite explores the concept of looping in time - starting and ending the film at the same point, with moments of manipulation of time throughout the film. The effect will create a mind-bending experience and a timeline of a seamlessly neverending film of a perfect loop.

Set in a neo-noir-inspired landscape, the narrative follows Eric’s never-ending journey and obsession with the infinite as a source of meaning. Eric portrays his internal conflict through choreographic distorted, repetitive, and looping movements.

Friday, AUG 25 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

NEXT

DANCE | 3:19

To dream, it is to see it and to see it is to believe it’s possible. What you dream of has the power to one day become your reality. Through the film, we follow our protagonist as she becomes emersed and enthralled in the world of movement. She quickly becomes overtaken by the spirit of dance, and her dream becomes her reality. “”NEXT”” is the story of following your dreams, And with the support of community and belief in oneself, anything is possible

Friday, AUG 25 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

S H A D

E S

DANCE | 7:28

This film explores the manifestation of and personification of neurosis, told through the mixed disciplines of spoken word and dance..

Friday, AUG 25 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

UNSPOKEN CONVERSATIONS

DANCE | 10:00

Growing up I’ve seen more unspoken conversations than a young man should have, to learn so much things as they come. We no longer have that liberty. This is a solo work created to interviews from my loved ones with the idea of changing that narrative.

Friday, AUG 25 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

ARTE CONGO… ARTIST JOURNEY ON THE CONGO COAST OF PANAMÁ DOCUMENTARY | 1:01:13

Arte Congo… is a film that documents a unique AfroPanamanian contemporary art movement that was born at Taller Portobelo, (the Portobelo Workshop), in the Republic of Panama. Taller Portobelo is an artist cooperative with a twoprong mission: to preserve Congo culture through the visual arts and, to provide income for a culturally and historically rich yet economically challenged community

Saturday, AUG 26 | 3:31 p.m.

Southwest Arts Center

BETYE SAAR: READY TO BE A WARRIOR DOCUMENTARY | 1:17:14

“Make Better Art” is the phrase coined by famed 96-year-old Los Angeles artist Betye Saar. This film documents her incredible journey as a creator, teacher, activist, mother and Black woman in America.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 5:21 p.m.

Southwest Arts Center

FLO JO: A DAUGHTER’S LOVE DOCUMENTARY | 51:00

A look at the untold story of Florence Griffith Joyner told through the eyes of those of her siblings, nieces, nephews, & daughter.

Sunday, AUG 27 | 12:26 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

GAINING GROUND: THE FIGHT FOR BLACK LAND DOCUMENTARY | 1:35:40

In just a few decades after the end of enslavement, Black Americans were able to amass millions of acres of farmland. Today approximately 90% of that land is no longer in Black hands. Various factors have been employed to take Black land including violence, eminent domain and government discrimination. But it is a little-known issue - Heirs’ Propertywhich has had a devastating effect on Black land ownership. Gaining Ground:

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 2:17 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

HUSH

|

A DOCUMENTARY ON BLACK MENTAL HEALTH

DOCUMENTARY | 1:16:00

HUSH | Help Us Say Help” is an 76-minute documentary about the origins of generational trauma and access to mental health resources within Black communities..

Sunday, AUG 27 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

KING OF KINGS : CHASING EDWARD JONES

DOCUMENTARY | 1:38:00

Gangster for some, philanthropist for others, who was really Edward Jones? In the ’30s and ’40s, this descendant of slaves becomes one of the richest men in the US thanks to the Policy business, an illegal numbers game, that ultimately became the modern State Lottery. But in these times of segregation, his success and unfailing support to the African American community are a problem. In conflict with both the mob and the Feds, he is forced into a life on the run.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 2:13 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

MOVE WHEN THE SPIRIT SAYS MOVE: THE LEGACY OF DOROTHY FOREMAN COTTON

DOCUMENTARY | 1:29:00

Dorothy Foreman Cotton was a bold and highly effective civil rights leader, who educated thousands about their citizenship rights and inspired generations of activists to not only to exercise their right to vote, but to take hold of their full range of rights and responsibilities. The only woman on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s executive staff.

Sunday, AUG 27 | 1:38 p.m.

Southwest Arts Center

NEGRITA DOCUMENTARY

| 50:00

NEGRITA is a feature documentary about diverse Afro Latinas who explore and confront culture and racism while defining their own identity in the United States. NEGRITA explores the ideology of Blackness, and how both American and Latino cultures perpetuate the belief that Blackness is to be destroyed. Through personal accounts, family pictures, old videos, and interactions with family and friends, NEGRITA will follow the director’s own struggle with identity. .

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

RIDING LEGACY DOCUMENTARY | 1:00:00

Riding legacy is a documentary about the Oklahoma black cowboy community that has existed since the early 1850s. Our film team (Jay Rid, Nicole Jocleen, and Kian Taylor) began documenting the rodeo season in 2022 from April to September. Our documentary highlights the origin of black cowboys/ cowgirls, the black rodeo community, and the future of Oklahoma black cowboys/cowgirls that ride professionally and locally.

Sunday, AUG 27 | 5:50 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

SHAPE THE CULTURE: THEN & NOW DOCUMENTARY | 14:00

The documentary, Shape the Culture: Then & Now features youth, historical and current, of Birmingham, Alabama, fighting for an equitable society during the Civil Rights Movement and the turbulent times we’re experiencing today.

Sunday, AUG 27 | 12:00 p.m.

Southwest Arts Center

THAT’S MY PHENOTYPE! DOCUMENTARY | 59:54

Hailing from the intersection of Boulevard Lorraine and Venetian Dr., between two of Southwest ATL’s, aka “the S.W.A.T.S.,” most notable thoroughfares of Cascade and Campbellton Rd., Choreographer CiCi Kelley utilizes her deeply rooted vernacular of Afrocentric Jazz Dance movement, in synergy with Atlanta Influences Everything (Bem Joiner, aie.life) social dance styled choreography and gestural devices, to further explore who she is as a Black woman through Black performance theory and the concept of Diasporic Spidering (Black Performance Theory, Thomas DeFrantz, Anita Gonzalez)..

Friday, AUG 25 | 4:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

THE BRIGHT PATH: THE JOHNNY BRIGHT STORY DOCUMENTARY | 56:35

The life and career of Drake University football player Johnny Bright, who overcame racial obstacles to become a Hall of Fame athlete and award-winning educator.

Sunday, AUG 27 | 3:54 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

THE LAST SEED DOCUMENTARY | 1:17:30

After his wife experiences a slew miscarriages, Kevin, a devoted black husband struggles with making his wife happy and must a find a way to keep his marriage intact.

Wednesday, AUG 26 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

TRAFFICKED: SURVIVOR STORIES DOCUMENTARY | 1:38:00 NEED TEXT

Sunday, AUG 27 | 3:18 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

WADE IN THE WATER: A JOURNEY INTO BLACK SURFING AND AQUATIC CULTURE DOCUMENTARY | 1:01:05

Wade in the Water: A Journey into Black Surfing and Aquatic Culture (2023) reclaims the 1,000-year-old tradition of Black surfing. Braiding historical accounts with modernday testimonials, the film dismantles the racial barriers of conventional surf culture, delves into the overlooked history of Black surfing’s legacy, and honors its current movement— inspiring the next generation of Black surfers.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 2:27 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

WALTER RODNEY: WHAT THEY DON’T WANT YOU TO KNOW DOCUMENTARY | 1:12:29

Walter Rodney: What they don’t Want you to Know’ is an original circa 72-minute documentary featuring a murder, Cold War conspiracies, Black Power, the end of Empire, and how that connects to the policing and surveillance practices of today. It feeds a growing appetite for history from a different perspective, as we grapple with the legacy of empire, colonialism, and its impact on the modern world..

Sunday, AUG 27 | 4:54 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

WE’RE PREGNANT AND OTHER LIES DOCUMENTARY | 42:26

Ben and Amber, of TikTok fame, are having a baby. “We’re” Pregnant and Other Lies follows the 9 months of Amber’s pregnancy and the sleepless 4th trimester. While their journey begins together, they learn that pregnancy is a drastically different for those carrying a baby and those supporting a partner. Watch as the pair share the story of their love as they transition to parenthood.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 6:33 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

WHO IN DA MORNIN’ DOCUMENTARY | 5:56

A street festival of West African origin, Junkanoo is a ritual of rebellion, encompassing the ideals of family, culture, and selfexpression celebrated across the Caribbean and southern United States. Each Boxing Day in the Bahamas, this street parade that features music, dance, and elaborate handmade costumes, is where local family groups of up to 700 people compete to win prizes for their performances.

Sunday, AUG 27 | 7:06 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

THE FILMS

Official Selections - Feature Narratives

LATASHA HARLINS

FEATURE | 2:00:00

Latasha Harlins isn’t your basic South Central coming to age drama. After experiencing the justice system falling her mother, she aspires to be a lawyer who would one day become a voice for the voiceless. The absence of her father contributes to her finding love in the form of a young man by the name of Ron. Latasha is a strong debater who uses her gift of words to outwit her competitors. Latasha is equally gifted in track & field.

Wednesday, AUG 24 | 7:58 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

MICKEY HARDAWAY

FEATURE | 1:45:00

A Young Sketch Artist visits a well renowned psychiatrist as his life begins sprawling out of control after years of Physical and Verbal Abuse has taken a toll on him.

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 5:37 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

SURVIVING MATTERS

FEATURE | 45:14

A Kingpin Drug dealing father (Cecil) and a talented basketball player son (Jamal) struggle to co-exists as their dysfunctional relationship pull them in different directions since the death of Jamal’s mother. After years of being forced into the family business, Jamal finally gets a beacon of hope when he reconnects with his high school basketball coach (Coach Parks) who offers to help him get a basketball scholar if he makes the men’s college basketball team that he is currently coaching.

Saturday, AUG 27 | 1:26 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

THE AQUATICS

FEATURE | 55:13

Five unlikely friends find themselves thrust into a world unknown by creating a VLOG about ocean conversation in lieu of grueling weeks of detention. This coming of age group follows teenage scuba-divers lead by main protagonist Journee. The Aquatics, a diverse cast of young adults who entertain and educate about Marine conversation while navigating through age old high school drama.

Saturday, AUG 25 | 12:32 9.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

THE SONG OF THE RIFLES

FEATURE | 1:54:00

Simon, a twelve-year-old loses everything due to the civil war ravaging his country. ‘Black Lion’, the ruthless rebel leader of the People’s Revolution Army, killed his family and set his house on fire. He is a weapon and combat strategy expert who formed a rebellion group with his cousin, Abdul Sakassaka. Their plan is to take over the established power by force with men, women and child soldiers (aged between 12 and 16). Abducted and threatened he becomes a child soldier alongside the rebels’ armed group.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 8:20 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

THE FILMS

TRAP CITY

FEATURE | 96:00

A struggling rapper working as a drop man for a drug kingpin, records a song that becomes a viral hit hours before his arrest

Friday, AUG 25 | 8:40 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

HERE YOU GO AGAIN - YASMINA. MUSIC VIDEO | 2:50

Yasmina embraces solitude and nature in order to rediscover herself..

Friday, AUG 256 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

LUNARCODE: THE LIGHT (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

MUSIC VIDEO | 3:22

An Official Selection of 2023 Tribeca Film Festival, Lunarcode’s: “The Light” was written in June of 2020 during the heat of the George Floyd, Black Lives Matter Protests. Ronny Minuche wrote the musical arrangement, and Vincenzo Carubia came in and wrote the lyrics. It was pieced together with Jason Booth (Drummer of Lunarcode) and backed by Portland vocalists, The Brown Sisters. The track, which was produced in Portland, OR by Neil Engle, can be found is on Lunarcode’s first studio album titled “Stories Untold” which was released in March 2022

Friday, AUG 256 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

MARCK ANGEL - “JUSTICE” (FROM “SERAPHIM” THE MOTION PICTURE)

MUSIC VIDEO | 4:58

“Justice”” is a musical visual from Pop/R&B music artist Marck Angel’s socially conscious Pop album & forthcoming motion picture film “SERAPHIM”. The visual, set to a hard-thumping, uptempo house beat with a thrashing funk bass line, depicts Angel, metaphorically as, “”Justice”” - blindfolded, chained & caged while singing & dancing against the social injustices of racism, bigotry, misogyny & xenophobia.

Friday, AUG 256 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

TIMELESS

MUSIC VIDEO | 5:36

As we spread love to other people, we become exponential, eternal, infinite. Love is timeless.

Friday, AUG 256 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

A CHOCOLATE LENS

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 21:12

How do you take a picture and tell a whole story. A Chocolate Lens chronicles Steven Cummings’s photographic journey through a disappearing Black Washington. His approach was simple: use the camera lens to find the power amidst the storm. His images are a love letter to Black people across America.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 1:45 p.m.

Southwest Arts Center

A CLEAN SLATE SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 14:14

In 2007 Shanyeill McCloud was convicted of misdemeanor battery protecting herself and her daughter from her abusive husband, a record that upturned her life, making it nearly impossible to find employment. After almost 16 months unemployed, Shanyeill learned she was not eligible for expungement under current Wisconsin state law.

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 1:50 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

A TOUCH OF KINDNESS: MAN OF FIRE

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 6:24

This documentary short dives into the life of a firefighter home life and overall mental health.

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 3:55 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

A WISH GRANTED (PT 1)

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 21:05

Tonya Spear had been searching for 48 years to find the father she has never known. What happens when a DNA test gives her only one match, to a 1st cousin she doesn’t know...

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 1:50 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

AFRO-TECHNO FREQUENCY SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 19:00

Afro Tech Frequency explores healing from the Black millennial perspective, examining how generational trauma is linked to the emotional experiences of young black people in America today. This experimental documentary utilizes contemporary visuals, archival imagery, techno music, and anonymous testimonies to showcase two parallel timelines of the Black experience in the 1950s and 2023, creating an intergenerational visual conversation.

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 13:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

AGAINST THE SILENCE SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 15:15

The documentary “Against The Silence” focuses on the Uyghur community in exile. After the tightening of Chinese measures after 2015 in Xinjang, most Uyghur*ins in exile no longer have any contact with their families in Eastern Turkistan. They do not know if they are alive, dead or imprisoned. This is also the case for the main protagonist Gülzire, who has been fighting for years from her exile in Munich for a sign of life from her sister Gülgine. Her everyday life is thus a difficult balancing act between fighting and letting go, waiting and starting over, between remembering and forgetting.

Sunday, AUG 27 | 11:00 a.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

AWADAGIN PRATT: BLACK IN AMERICA SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 25:25

You are never too famous to escape racism and racial profiling. Awadagin Pratt is a renowned concert pianist, conductor, and violinist. In 1992, Mr. Pratt won the prestigious Naumburg International Piano Competition. Pratt is acclaimed for his musical prowess, skilled recitals, and performances with symphony orchestras.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 12:00 p.m. Southwest Arts Center

BECOMING BLACK LAWYERS SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 25:00

When these five Black lawyers set out on their journeys to receive a professional legal education, they did not realize that they would have to struggle against additional daily battles even more challenging than the rigors of learning the law in a hypercompetitive environment. They discover the paradox of studying in an institution that idealistically represents “justice for all.”

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 1:50 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

CASE NOTES SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 03:51

Labeled at young age by a system quick to write off people of color, Tony hopes to spare others the unnecessary obstacles he faced. An animated short about the power that narrative holds, to oppress, or to liberate.

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 3:55 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

CONDUCTING LIFE SHORT NARRATIVE | 30:56

In the rarified world of classical music, the road to success is a daunting one. Especially for young conductors. CONDUCTING LIFE follows the improbable journey of Roderick Cox from his childhood in Macon, Georgia into the classical music world, as he tirelessly pursues his dream — to secure a top position with a major orchestra. Roderick’s story is about the passion, sacrifice, and courage it takes to succeed in an elusive profession with limited opportunities.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 12:00 p.m.

Southwest Arts Center

DESCENDED: THE FIGHT FOR HARRIS NECK SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 33:50

The documentary film “Descended: The Fight for Harris Neck” explores an ongoing land battle in Harris Neck, Georgia. In 1942 the U.S. war department seized 2,687 acres of land from a selfreliant community of seventy-five African American families. Since 1962 the land has been a national wildlife refuge. The film seeks to answer the pivotal question: How has a community been shaped by its common goal to reclaim their land?

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 2:17 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

ELECTRIC PIONEERS SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 23:48

”Electric Pioneers” is a captivating and eye-opening documentary that not only highlights the vibrant PEV community in Atlanta but also ignites a broader conversation about the future of sustainable transportation. Through its engaging storytelling and visually stunning cinematography, the film takes audiences on a transformative journey, inviting them to explore the growing popularity, challenges, and changing perceptions surrounding PEVs

Sunday, AUG 27 | 9:26 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

HARLEM IS NOWHERE

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 15:33

Devin wants nothing more than to die, but his family wants nothing more than to see him live. Over the past year, he’s attempted to take his life 5 times. Each time Devin survives, it’s a bittersweet feeling, knowing that the next attempt could be right around the corner. On the same day Lamar is prepping for one of the biggest auditions of his career, he receives a phone call that Devin is threatening to take his own life.

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 5:35 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

JOHN LEGUIZAMO LIVE AT RIKERS

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 26:00

Actor John Leguizamo performs his Broadway play, “Ghetto Klown” for inmates at Rikers prison and engages them in discussion around the challenges of incarceration and their hopes for a better future.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 11:00 a.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

JOE BARRY CARROLL

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 8:49

This short documentary is an intimate and uplifting peak inside the heart and mind of Joe Barry Carroll, a seven-foottall former All-American basketball player and first overall NBA draft pick who refuses to stop growing. Born the 10th of 13 children in Pine Bluff, Arkansas and raised in Denver, Colorado, Carroll earned an Economics degree from Purdue University and played in the NBA for ten years before becoming a wealth advisor, author, and artist.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 1:46 p.m.

Southwest Arts Center

ONBOARD

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 39:27

During the Summer of 2020, two friends, Merline Saintil and Robin Washington, were among a few Black women who sat on corporate boards. They believed corporate diversity starts at the top, and they took on the historically white male-dominated space of America’s board rooms. Merline and Robin invited 18 women to a zoom happy hour to hatch a plan.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 4:49 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

PRE-EXISTING FREEDOM

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 15:00

Pre-Existing Freedom is the first Chapter in the Trilogy of the same name. A documentary art film created by Fr3deR1cK to examine concepts of freedom and social justice in the time of pandemics and a reckoning with race and equity in America. The filmmaker through a personal lens and with the voices of everyday people presents events and moments in time that still resonate and bring to light many questions about the meaning of freedom and how it applies to every citizen or to none.

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 5:35 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

QUIET AS IT’S KEPT

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 25:36

“Quiet As It’s Kept” is a contemporary cinematic response to The Bluest Eye, Toni Morrison’s first novel, published in 1970. Set in Ohio in 1941, the book is an evocative illustration of the everyday particulars of colorism and its ravaging effects on the intramural. Themes of embodiment, psychoanalysis, and beauty are explored in both the source text and the answering film. Instinctual and eviscerating, the film encourages viewers to make meaning that is rooted in the subjective and examine their position within looking relations.

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 5:35 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

SLICE

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 16:30

“SLICE” follows Rico Golden, Memphis native and allstar “Slicer” who wants to tell the world about his city’s underground culture of swimming. “Slicing” is a diving technique that highlights flips, tricks, and intricate moves while splashing into a swimming pool. Rico and his fellow slicers, including his homeboy, Keith “Sip” Reynolds, have found joy and refuge at public and apartment swimming pools in Memphis, and explore how slicing engaged the water as a safe place for them as they grew up, despite issues of access and distractions of life’s stresses

Saturday, AUG 26 | 2:27 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

SMILE4KIME

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 25:00

“Smile4Kime” is a documentary that explores the friendship between two women: Kime–a vibrant, unapologetic Black woman who lived with mental illness, and Elena–an Afro Puerto Rican woman and devoted friend coping with grief in the wake of Kime’s death

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 3:55 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

SONG OF THE SOUTH

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 20:00

This documentary takes us to Atlanta Georgia in the 80’s, 90’s and 2000’s where the music of talented artists shaped the three decades of music. From the desk of music executive Ian Burke, the film goes behind the scenes and the stories of Mr. Burke, outlining the history of urban music and it’s impact. The series covers the early beginnings of southern urban music styles and influences, from the east as well as the south. Music and entertainment from the south influenced many other music genres and Artists across the country.

Friday, AUG 25 | 6:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

SPIRITUAL CYPHERS: HIP HOP AND THE CHURCH

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 36:48

In celebration of Hip Hop turning 50 this year, Ariyan Johnson shares her personal journey about the struggles and triumphs of her two conflicting loves, Hip Hop and the Church. Through research and interviews with pastors, historians, artists, and pioneering women hip hop dance artists, the film explores the burgeoning industry of Hip Hop and its challenge for acceptance within the Church.

Sunday, AUG 27 | 2:17 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

WHO’S BEHIND BLACK ART

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 25:08

“Who’s Behind Black Art” is a documentary series in 4 parts. Pt.1&2 We explore the lives of five young Black Emerging Artists from Good Black Art, and all currently reside in the USA. The series gives the audience a first look, and a personal opportunity to appreciate WHO is behind these incredible creations.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 1:46 p.m. Southwest Arts Center

YOUNG KINGS

SHORT DOCUMENTARY | 22:55

From pulling clutches to pushing pedals, “Poppin’ wheelies” through the concrete jungle is an authentic, unapologetic form of self-expression. It’s art. Culture. Freedom. Escape. Bike life. But in the news and in certain neighborhoods, it’s criminalized. “Young Kings” uncovers their deeper truths: Their heart and soul. Their passion. Their struggle. Their respect. Their honor. Their legacy.

Sunday, AUG 27 | 9:26 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

2023 Official Selections - Short Narratives

A FLARE

SHORT NARRATIVE | 22:36

When Will discovers an antique phone he realizes it can be used to call a different dimension, and on the other end of the line is...Kenya. Despite the impossible distance between them, Will and Kenya grow closer, but her world is literally falling apart and there is nothing Will can do.

Friday, AUG 25 | 2:27 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

A LISBON AFFAIR

SHORT NARRATIVE | 14:25

Waldo and Shey are in love. Waldo, who lives in Berlin, travels to Lisbon to meet Shey. Their encounter will disclose the emotional tension of their bond and the doubts about their cultural and historical identity as Afro-Portuguese

Thursday, AUG 24 | 3:16 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

ALL STRINGS ATTACHED

SHORT NARRATIVE | 16:00

Young, career-minded, and ambitious, Roselyne and Adam have difficulty finding time for their relationship in their overloaded and always hectic schedule. When the two finally decide to spend time together, an unexpected visit complicates their plans.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 3:16 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

AS THE COOKIE CRUMBLES

SHORT NARRATIVE | 36:30

It’s nighttime, you stroll past a couple in the middle of an intense fight (like the moment when the dam finally breaks for Charlie and Nicole in “The Marriage Story”) except... This fight is happening outside a posh restaurant in New York City, where life bustles in the background like a backdrop for this private, and yet not so private argument. I bet you, like everyone else, is wondering ”what on earth?” ”Why?” Maybe you wish ”they’d take it inside.”

Thursday, AUG 24 | 9:00 9.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

The Nominees

Shorts

Boy. With. Angel. Wings

As the Cookie Crumbles

Ricky

Speak Up Brotha

Port of a Prince

The Kill Floor Students

Black Magic Cuffed

Imprint

Instant Noodle

The Fire of the Firefly

Love Taps

Dance formula I(N)finite

Next

Atali’i O Le Crezent (Sons of the Crezent)

SHADES

Web Series

The Table Tokens

A Version

Music

Here You Go Again

Lunarcode: The Light

Marck Angel-Justice

Timeless Feature

LaTasha Harlins

The Aquatics

Trap City

The Song of the Rifles

Documentary

Wade in the Water: A Journey Into Black

Surfing and Aquatic Culture

King of Kings

Move When the Spirit Says Move: The Legacy of Dorothy Foreman Cotton

Who in Da Mornin’

Gaining Ground: The Fight for Black Land

Short Documentary

Conducting Life

Descended: The Fight for Harris Neck

John Leguizamo at Rikers Island

OnBoard

Clean Slate

The Andrew Young

Cinema and Social Justice Award

MOVE WHEN THE SPIRIT SAYS MOVE: The Legacy of Dorothy Foreman Cotton

Shape the Culture Then and Now

Best Actor

David Harewood – Man to Man

John Leguizamo – John Leguizamo Live at Rikers Island

Elias Ferguson – Jerome

Sanou Titiama – Song of the Rifles

Marchant Davis – Incomplete

Best Actress

Jo Martin – My Jerome

MaYaa Boateng – Reunion

Daijah Peters – LaTasha Harlins

Aries Sanders – Jerome

Daniela Griffin – Etto

Idella Johnson – Benediction

2023 Official Selections - Short Narratives

ASALI: POWER OF THE POLLINATORS

SHORT NARRATIVE | 27:30

ASALI: Power of The Pollinators is an animated actionadventure short film that follows Asali, a lonely honey bee who is the survivor of the collapse of her bee colony, as she meets a colorful group of pollinator friends and a human environmental scientist. Together they unravel a trail of secrets to discover if they can save their home from a monstrous and deadly force that has been haunting Asali and her family’s past.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 11:00 a.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

BENEDICTION

SHORT NARRATIVE | 18:26

At first, Rosalee is mesmerized by the theatrics of Mount Gideon Holy Baptist Church. Drawn there by an advertisement for a “faith healing ceremony,” it’s one of many pit stops on her way back home from a solo trip across the south. But when she sees a dazed woman wandering into the woods behind the church, she can’t resist the call to follow her there. Rosalie comes to realize her trip to this church was more fate than chance. Something here has been waiting for her.

Friday, AUG 25 | 5:59 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

BESIDE MYSELF

SHORT NARRATIVE | 5:35

When Amal is summoned from England to the first femaleowned safari business she co-founded in Tanzania, it’s clear that funds have been misused by her business partner. Upon her arrival, she’s presented with evidence of more serious issues by the female staff.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 3:16 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

BOY.WITH.ANGEL.WINGS

SHORT NARRATIVE | 18:39

In returning home to family, a young man grows reluctant. This behavior propels him into getting robbed of a family heirloom and while attempting to recover it he’s forced to dealing with resurfaced trauma.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 7:52 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

2023 Official Selections - Short Narratives

CATCHING SPIRITS

SHORT NARRATIVE | 12:14

Since childhood, Destiny has been told she has seizures when she dances. An unexplained phenomena that’s resulted in deep fear and her refusal to dance- despite being drawn to it. What she doesn’t know, is that she has an ancient ability - a birthright of the Haitian women in her lineage going back for ages. Today, in LA, Destiny is still in the dark about her ancestral power but strange things are happening. Destiny is tormented by voices in her head, calling her to “test the waters” and compelling her to stalk someone.

Friday, AUG 25 | 5:59 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 2

CHIDERA

SHORT NARRATIVE | 17:55

Inspired by a true story, Chidera (igbo meaning: ”what God has destined) is an “ezenwa” meaning she was born with ”dada” hair signifying she is a direct descendant of the mighty goddess of Atai - a powerful linage of women of the Ani tribe in Africa. From birth she was bound to a lifelong oath to a higher calling, but as the traditional ceremony looms she struggles to choose between her destiny and the freedom she craves.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

CREAM, NO SUGAR

SHORT NARRATIVE | 14:20

Since childhood, Destiny has been told she has seizures when she dances. An unexplained phenomena that’s resulted in deep fear and her refusal to dance- despite being drawn to it. What she doesn’t know, is that she has an ancient ability - a birthright of the Haitian women in her lineage going back for ages. Today, in LA, Destiny is still in the dark about her ancestral power but strange things are happening. Destiny is tormented by voices in her head, calling her to “test the waters” and compelling her to stalk someone.

Friday, AUG 25 | 8:01 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

ETTO

SHORT NARRATIVE | 24:52

Blessed, a young Black southern woman is going to a job fair with her best friend, Royal. They are both hopeful until Royal asks Blessed how she looks. Blessed replies with high praises and asks Royal how she looks in return. What comes out of Royal’s mouth is a truth that stings and begins to manifest and negatively impact Blessed’s life in major ways. Tired of being kept from the finer things in life, she changes her style and attracts the job and the lover she desires. After weeks of this new life, there is still something missing. She realizes it’s herself. Will she continue this new life to keep her desires? Or will she choose her peace?

Thursday, AUG 24 | 5:30 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

2023 Official Selections - Short Narratives

FOREIGN PLANETARY

SHORT NARRATIVE | 10:20

On the brink of her last day on Earth before being forced to return to her planet of origin, a young woman must find a way to stay in her new home. As her options begin to run out, she grapples with the moral question of how far she is willing to go in order to achieve her goal.

Friday, AUG 25 | 2:27 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

FREEMAN HOSPITALITY

SHORT NARRATIVE | 19:30

The Freemans, a black family living in South Georgia, operate a private security company protecting others amidst a dystopian martial state. The Freeman’s escort into their world a young, determined, yet still naive British journalist named Natalie Pembrook. Pembrook is in the U.S. to interview one of the powerful warlords that have appeared in the aftermath of the fighting.

Friday, AUG 25 | 5:59 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

GOLDEN FLOWER

SHORT NARRATIVE | 22:00

Inspired by a True Story: During the 1500’s, the Taino Kingdoms of the Caribbean peacefully coexist with nature. One of their Kasikü (Chief), Anacaona maintains peaceful trade with the Spaniards. One fateful day, the greed of their leader Nicolüs de Ovando pushes those relationships to the brink. 2022 finds the descendant of de Ovando, Nick who resides in Los Angeles with his girlfriend. The antithesis of his forebear, there is hope for the future until one fateful visit..

Friday, AUG 25 | 2:27 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

GOOD DAY

SHORT NARRATIVE | 11:45

Good Day is the story of a Black millennial man experiencing events in one day that individually would appear pretty ordinary, but collectively trigger significant anxiety within him. From the microaggressions experienced in corporate America, to the personal demands from family and friends, we watch as Rich experiences this day patiently waiting to see if he ever takes back control of his life.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 5:30 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

2023 Official Selections - Short Narratives

GOOD EGG

SHORT NARRATIVE | 8:29

A self reliant woman discovers she isn’t able to conceive naturally and she embarks on a painful, funny and strange journey of fertility treatments, workouts and healthy juicing in order to become pregnant. Things turn sad when she loses the pregnancy she works so hard to achieve, leading her to finally let her partner in to be a support throughout this process she took on by herself because of self-blame.

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 8:22 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

GOTCHA

SHORT NARRATIVE | 23:20

Tiara and Grady, a happily married black couple, experiences horrifying psychological encounters after being attacked by micro aggressions from their coworkers in Corporate America. Tiara works remotely while Grady works in the office. They both notice these encounters separately but feel the same effects. Through Grady’s friend and coworker, Brandon, they notice that they don’t have much time before these effects become permanent.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 5:30 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

HELLO.GOODBYE

SHORT NARRATIVE | 16:17

“hello.goodbye” follows TEE, a photographer, who’s moved forward in her career and life and now has found love with her fiance´ JAYDEN. Her life is seemingly perfect until she is visited by a former friend that destroyed her chance at love after college. Now faced with her past and future clashing, TEE must now deal with the past decisions she’s made and decide if they were the right ones.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 9:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

IF HEAVEN HAD HEIGHTS

SHORT NARRATIVE | 6:42

“If you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its life feeling inadequate.” - Albert Einstein

They socialize us to aspire to goals that they constantly shift. But what if what we’ve been taught to fear could actually save us?

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 5:35 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

INCOMPLETE

SHORT NARRATIVE | 10:11

Evan’s sister went out of her way to rent him a house off the DOC database, in a boughie-ass suburban neighborhood so he could serve the remainder of his sentence in the Jail Diversion Program on house arrest. When his breathalyzer Machine starts to act strange, the Polaroid pictures it routinely prints suggest that Evan is not alone. A faceless figure is also occupying this suburban home. Evan must make a decision to either stay and face his fears or end up serving his remaining time in Jail

Thursday, AUG 24 | 7:52 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

JEROME

SHORT NARRATIVE | 15:00

Jerome (17) struggles with feelings of inadequacy when searching for his estranged father. Even still, he honors him, wearing an old pair of Blue Jordans. After a failed family dinner event he’s forced to confront the long absence of his father. As he spirals toward a ghostly legacy, he copes the only way he knows how—basketball. Will Jerome shed the history of the past and forge himself a new future?

Thursday, AUG 24 | 7:52 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

LOWE

SHORT NARRATIVE | 15:04

In a distant future, humanoids must maintain maximum proficiency to execute tasks for CyberServ– if they are underperforming, they must update their operating system or be at risk being disabled. Savannah Lowe, is struggling with software glitches, malfunctions, and low energy. Then she gets a notification that could change everything: A system update is available for download. But if Savannah gets the update, her files and memories could be erased... including the memory of her “father.”

Friday, AUG 25 | 2:27 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

MADHAVI

SHORT NARRATIVE | 14:28

Having survived domestic violence in her marriage, Madhavi, an Indian divorcee with a young withdrawn daughter, Sonia, struggles to put the pieces of their lives back together. A traditional Indian dance performer during her glory days in India, she now works at the local supermarket in the U.S., where a chance encounter with a former family friend will lead her and her daughter to a house gathering.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 12:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

2023 Official Selections - Short Narratives

MAN TO MAN

SHORT NARRATIVE | 19:20

Man To Man is a hard-hitting, emotional rollercoaster starring SAG/Independent Spirit Award-nominated David Harewood MBE (Homeland, Blood Diamond). The film examines a Father / Son relationship as Malcolm brings his son Dion to a boxing ring to ‘make a man’ out of him. Tensions fly high as Dion decides he cannot be the kind of man his father wants him to be, and refuses to learn how to fight.

Friday, AUG 25 | 8:22 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

MIGRATION

SHORT NARRATIVE | 23:46

Kwame a young African immigrant has recently moved to the suburb of Blacktown, Western Sydney. The unresolved questions of his father and the struggles of keeping keeping afloat in a single-parent household leads him to wrestle with his sense of place in this bustling, multicultural area. On a random encounter he meets Deng a warm Sudanese youth, well-known in the area. Their friendship is kindled and through their connection he meets other young men with similar pasts.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 1:32 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

HELLO.GOODBYE

SHORT NARRATIVE | 16:17

“hello.goodbye” follows TEE, a photographer, who’s moved forward in her career and life and now has found love with her fiance´ JAYDEN. Her life is seemingly perfect until she is visited by a former friend that destroyed her chance at love after college. Now faced with her past and future clashing, TEE must now deal with the past decisions she’s made and decide if they were the right ones.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 9:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

MY ASIAN

SHORT NARRATIVE | 7:12

MY ASIAN is a lyrical short film written from the perspective of Emmy-Award Winning Poet and Performer, Suzen Baraka, and sharing her story of growing up Black and Korean in America.

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 5:35 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

MY JEROME (MAI JERUOM)

SHORT NARRATIVE | 15:08

On the morning of, Bev and her family anticipated the verdict of her son’s trial.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 7:52 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

MYSORE MAGIC

SHORT NARRATIVE | 14:00

A 1982 disco competition hosts the true and unlikely romance between Premi and Vasu — one an outsider from a tiny island in Africa and the other a show-off from a high caste family. With one in the audience and one dancing on stage, Premi and Vasu spark a romance that embodies the humanity and hope of those monikered as “immigrants” years before their eventual journey to the West.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 3:16 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

NEW DAY MR. E SHORT

NARRATIVE | 11:38

New Day Mr. E captures the experience of an unconventional Nigerian-American teacher trying to inspire a group of innercity high school students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Friday, AUG 25 | 8:01 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

OUR MALES AND FEMALES

SHORT NARRATIVE | 11:00

A father and mother are faced with the painful task of washing and shrouding their deceased transgender daughter. Shrouding is an Islamic religious practice that is deemed obligatory to carry out upon death. But when no one agrees to wash her and shame falls onto the family, how far is the father willing to go to make sure his “son” is washed?.

Sunday, AUG 27 | 11:00 a.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

2023 Official Selections - Short Narratives

PARTLY CLOUDY & HOT SHORT NARRATIVE | 15:00

A husband’s manhood is tested when his wife hands him a male fertility test..

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 8:22 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

PORT OF A PRINCE SHORT NARRATIVE | 14:42

Tiyo and his best friend Jeff roam the streets of Port-au-Prince doing odd jobs for change. Upon running through the narrow corridors of a poor slum village, they come across a meeting that forever changes their fate. Entangled by the grip of his Big Brother’s gang, Tiyo is now faced with either pledging loyalty or losing the confidence of his grandfather. A decision that binds him to inevitable consequences.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 1:32 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

REMEDIAL SHORT NARRATIVE | 20:05

As Will struggles to cope with the tragic loss of his father, Will and his mother resolve to build a new life by relocating from the UK to the U.S. Shortly after enrolling in a new school in Houston, TX, Will’s behavior becomes increasingly disconcerting as he begins showing signs of PTSD. Haunted by recurring memories of his final moments with his dad and the perpetual thought of drowning, which is triggered by the most common daily tasks, he realizes there is no escape. And as his grasp on reality begins to slip, Will becomes determined to hold onto the fleeting memories of his father by any means necessary

Friday, AUG 24 | 8:01 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

RICKY SHORT NARRATIVE | 20:10

Ricky needs to find work to avoid violating his parole. His longtime neighbor offers him a job at her diner only if he doesn’t screw up. Ricky wakes up late the next morning and asks his brother for a ride, but he’s wasted from the night before. Taking matters into his own hands to get to work, it results in a major mishap. Will Ricky own up to his mistake or let his brother take the fall for him?.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 7:32 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

RO & THE STARDUST

SHORT NARRATIVE | 15:39

Eccentric grandmother, Sonia Linares, is dying and not allowed to do much under the care of her overprotective daughter, Celeste. Even so, Sonia has unconven- tional plans for her end of life - a former Engineer, she is determined to build a rocket ship and launch herself into outer space before she dies. With the help of her free spirited granddaughter, Ro, she’ll make it happen, no matter what.”

Friday, AUG 24 | 2:27 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

SOLOMON’S MOOD

SHORT NARRATIVE | 21:36

A 1982 disco competition hosts the true and unlikely romance between Premi and Vasu — one an outsider from a tiny island in Africa and the other a show-off from a high caste family. With one in the audience and one dancing on stage, Premi and Vasu spark a romance that embodies the humanity and hope of those monikered as “immigrants” years before their eventual journey to the West.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 9:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

SPARE SHORT NARRATIVE | 9:01

Billy visits Cheryl to express gratitude for a gift he can never repay only to learn she has received an invaluable gift of her own.

Wednesday, AUG 25 | 8:22 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

SPEAK UP BROTHA!

SHORT NARRATIVE | 14:57

Grad student Ahmad Jones drives for a rideshare company. He receives a request from a mysterious woman — a poet. They connect over music, but she seems to ignore him. When the opportunity arises to see her again, Ahmad must learn how to communicate in ways beyond his understanding to win her heart.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 7:10 a.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

2023 Official Selections - Short Narratives

SWEATSHOP GIRL

SHORT NARRATIVE | 15:00

Inüs works as a seamstress in a sweatshop where pregnancy tests are periodically administered. When she becomes pregnant, she is sure that her condition will get her fired. She does everything she can to keep it a secret.

Wednesday, AUG 23 | 10:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

SWIPE SHORT NARRATIVE | 21:20

Tiyo and his best friend Jeff roam the streets of Port-au-Prince doing odd jobs for change. Upon running through the narrow corridors of a poor slum village, they come across a meeting that forever changes their fate. Entangled by the grip of his Big Brother’s gang, Tiyo is now faced with either pledging loyalty or losing the confidence of his grandfather. A decision that binds him to inevitable consequences.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 7:10 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

TALK BLACK SHORT NARRATIVE | 13:02

Mahogany is a talented black engineer working in the not so subtly racist south.She’s been working at TLS for five years, but her boss continually gives the two new guys preferential treatment. As a coping mechanism Mahogany creates Liquida, a wild and expressive reflection of her self-consciousness. There are three versions of Liquida who, in their own way, try to get Mahogany to speak up for herself. When her boss embarrasses Mahogany in front of the new guys as well as a very important client, Liquida finally takes over Mahogany’s body. And she holds nothing back.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 5:30 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

THE DUPPY MAN’S WALK SHORT NARRATIVE | 18:12

Upon failing to show proper respects at the edge of a mysterious marsh, two young men pay a horrific price for their encroachment, when a restless entity makes its displeasure known. Following the 1920’s disappearance and assumed murder of Dirty Nat’s Father, he and his family were forced from their rural homestead. Now almost a century later, Nat has managed to orchestrate the reunification of the family’s land. He recruits his Great Nephew Vallon and his friend Byron to help him piece together the remains of his father’s fledgling black community, burned down during the racial animus of the Post Reconstruction South..

Friday, AUG 25 | 5:59 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

THE KILL FLOOR

SHORT NARRATIVE | 27:00

The Kill Floor - When the Covid-19 pandemic engulfs a meatpacking plant in his rural hometown, a young Latinx reporter (Jaime Zevallos) returns to uncover the urgent and deadly circumstances threatening the plant’s workers –including his father (Miguel Najera). Co-Starring Michele Greene, Ingrid Oliu, Daniel E. Mora, Manny Martinez Hernandez, Carlos Solürzano and Alejandro Patino.

Wednesday, AUG 24 | 10:00 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

YE!

SHORT NARRATIVE | 19:58

Stellar is a Nigerian doctor living with her husband and young daughter in Nigeria. Her family is murdered by a teen soldier, leaving her haunted by their morose and menacing spirits. Their traumatic deaths initiate her into a celestial league of women who serve as her guides as she seeks to avenge them. Years later, she locates their killer who is working as a cab driver in Boston. During their journey, Stellar takes Lenny on a cat-andmouse game until she gets the answers she’s looking for. Once delivered, her catharsis leads to a crossing over that will change Lenny’s life forever.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 8:20 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

YOU’VE MATCHED

SHORT NARRATIVE | 12:12

MrWayne83 and WavvyGirl39 met online and fell in love sight unseen. What could possibly go wrong when they meet in real life? The answer: a lot.

Thursday, AUG 24 | 3:31 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 4

BLACK BUTTERFLY STUDENT FILMS | 12:00

Black Butterfly is a hopeful drama that tells the story of Clay Frazier, an ambitious Black man who has navigated the cutthroat world of corporate America with his savvy and determination. But on the day of his much-deserved promotion, Clay’s meticulously crafted persona begins to crack. What follows is a gripping tale of survival, as Clay is pushed to his limits and must choose between succumbing to the corrupting influences that brought him this far or tapping into the faith of his past and emerging into a Black Butterfly.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 6:33 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

BLACK MAGIC STUDENT FILM | 13:40

Through a dark and comedic lens, Black Magic explores the parallels between real perceptions and consequential misrepresentations of Black people. It attempts to illustrate the dangers of this popular depiction as well as draw a connection to the real world writers who – consciously or not – replicate it

Saturday, AUG 26 | 6:33 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

CUFFED STUDENT FILM | 14:50

A collection of radio/podcast hosts remark on the killing of Malcolm Glover, an unarmed black high school student who was shot by a white police officer. Later, two young black high school students are apprehended by the police for being in the wrong location at the wrong time! Although they manage to flee, their freedom does not last long. Carter and Reggie are supposed to depict the polar opposite ends of a young black male in America.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 8:34 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

FINDING JORDAN STUDENT FILM | 13:30

In the early 2000s, thirteen-year-old Madison sets out to find and bring home her older sister, Jordan, in hopes of restoring the relationship between Jordan and their pious parents. On her journey, Madison is elated to find Jordan but shocked to find out that she’s gay. Though reluctant at first, Madison forgoes her initial goal and receives, through Jordan and the love shared between the sisters, a lesson in acceptance and affirmation.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 8:34 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

IMPRINT STUDENT FILM|8:17

HAPPY NOODLE STUDENT FILM |

5:32

A desperate man attempts to rob an Asian restaurant. He assumes that an old Asian grandma will be an easy target, however, quickly learns that is not the case.

Satruday, AUG 26 | 6:33 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

In the bedroom of a young black girl, Levi wakes up, her eyes landing on a calendar on her bedside marking her mother’s birthday. With more excitement than just a typical routine, she rushes into her dad, Leon’s room to jump on his bed until he wakes up. In Leon’s room, Levi jumps onto his bed with joy and whispers good morning into his face. The two joke about her morning breath and Leon tells her to finish her morning ritual.

Satruday, AUG 26 | 8:34 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

INSTANT NOODLE STUDENT FILM|

14:26

Having just lost her Indonesian mother less than a year ago, MARIANNA, a biracial Indonesian woman, comes home to Pasadena for her, Caucasian, DAD’s birthday. This is Dad’s first birthday since the passing of MOM, and it is hard for him since she would often make birthdays feel very special. Mom does this by making a instant noodle dish, which symbolizes long life for Indonesians.

Saturday, AUG 23 | 6:33 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

LOVE TAPS STUDENT FILM

| 13:51

Love Taps is a dramatic short film that follows CJ, an 11 year old black boy who desperately wants his newly separated parents to reunite. While living with his father Calvin, he discovers that his father is having an affair with another man. In an attempt to bring his family back together, he tells his father that he’s willing to conceal this secret if it means his mother will return. However, his hopes of bringing his family back together are crushed when he learns that his mother is taking custody of him. In the end, he is forced to confront his father before his mother finally takes him away.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 8:34 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

MA JULIA

STUDENT FILM | 16:13

Lyons, Georgia is a rural town that seems to be fading away. But in reality, Lyons is anything but static. This is where Julia Mincey, aka Ma Julia, Kennedy’s great-great-grandmother rose to fame and delivered hundreds of babies for 44 years. She was what the Black community regarded as a Granny Midwife, a well-respected Black woman who was a keystone for the Black community when doctors were not available.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 6:33 9.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

THE FIRE OF A FIREFLY (EL BRILLO DE LA LUCIÁRNAGA STUDENT FILM | 13:36

Pedro, an indigenous migrant, returns to his village for his mother’s funeral. When he learns of the serious problem his brother Ismael is involved in, he decides to stay and face the consequences of his absence..

Saturday, AUG 26 | 8:34 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

TIKTOK CHALLENGED STUDENT FILM

| 8:37

A soap-opera-loving grandma wants to go viral but needs a little help from her grandson who didn’t exactly plan to spend his day making a TikTok.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 8:34 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

WHITE PAPER FLOWERS STUDENT FILM | 37:12

Yu Gong, who has been studying abroad, returns home abruptly after receiving word from her mother that her father has been cheating. She plans to confront him in person - but when her grandpa suddenly passes away on her way there, she begins to question whether the truth still matters.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 4:56 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

A VERSION

WEB SERIES | 9:42

Amir and Amna are a young Muslim couple who can be more forgiving to themselves and each other. Their thoughts about visiting an Imam for therapy, playing badminton, and tardiness on a V-day date become full-fledged arguments that their American therapist attempts to mediate. In other words, it isn’t the big things, it’s the small things that become big...

Saturday, AUG 26 | 12:26 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

IT IS WHAT IT IS (THE SERIES)

WEB SERIES | 15:00

A comedy-drama that follows the life of Ace. A Haitian-American man living in South Florida, who’s battling with when and where he can be himself, while dealing with relationships, society, and his past.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 12:26 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

THE TABLE

WEB SERIES | 25:00

Inspired by famed photographer Carrie Mae Weems “Kitchen Table Series,” “The Table” follows the relationship of Ed and London over seven years, primarily at their dining room table. Ed, raised in Newark, is an up-and-coming Wall Street trader who hustled his way from the mailroom to the trading floor. London, the product of a black yogi and white physician from Sedona, Arizona, has an alternative view of the world. The two could not be more different but embark on a shared journey of life and love.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 12:26 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

2023 Official Selections - Web Series

TOKENS SEASON 2

WEB SERIES | 7:30

Set in the world of actors cast by productions desperate to hit their diversity quotas, Season 2 of TOKENS pivots from the comedic overuse of On Call Casting, the democratic Uberization of diverse representation in Season 1, to a comedy about the hunger-gaming of casting and the need to stay ahead of the trend. Sammie Pang, in her quest to find a meaningful role, quits On Call Casting and lands a Hollywood Agent and, seemingly, the role of a lifetime. She soon realizes being on top isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be. Season 2 moves the idea of inclusion in front of the camera to the need for authenticity behind the camera.

Saturday, AUG 26 | 12:26 p.m.

Landmark Midtown Cinemas, Theater 3

THE POWERHOUSE SERIES

HOW TO FIND YOUR AUDIENCE

PRESENTED BY SEEK&SPARK

Thursday, August 24, 2023 | 1:00 PM

Landmark Midtown Art Cinema - Theater 3

Speaker: Emily Best, CEO & Founder, Seed&Spark

So you want to build your audience - but do you even know who they are yet?

Figuring out your target audience is vital in all phases of your project from development to distribution - including pitching, crowdfunding, marketing and monetization.

This workshop will help you narrow down:

ü who will fall in love with your work/film as much as you have,

ü where your audience spends their time,

ü and how to align your crowdfunding campaign with what they spend their money on.

INDIE FILMMAKING BEST PRACTICES

Thursday, August 24, 2023 2:30 PM

Award-winning independent narrative & documentary filmmakers share resources, hacks, and best practices from pre-thru-post production & distribution. This peer-topeer panel discussion will include tips to help you maximize your production value on a limited budget & make the most of your experience on the film festival circuit. You’ll also hear from an Oscar-Nominated filmmaker on how to qualify your short film for the Academy Awards.

PowerHouse Panelists include:

Shandra L. McDonald - Filmmaker

Bobby Huntley - Filmmaker/ Founder of Birdstone Entertainment Group

David Massey - Producer/Director

CJ Faison - Producer

Fr3deR1cK - Filmmaker (Moderator)

Emily Best

Fr3deR1cK Moderator

CJ Faison Bobby Huntley David Massey Shandra L. McDonald

ENTERTAINMENT LAW FOR CREATIVES

SPONSORED BY CNN COLLECTION

Thursday, August 24, 2023 4:00 PM

Theater 3 - Landmark Midtown Art Cinema

Hear from the sharpest legal minds in the industry during this roundtable discussion as they share insights on important issues for creatives including:

1. protecting your intellectual property,

2. entertainment law trends

3. and the latest hot topics like union contract issues & artificial intelligence.

PowerHouse Panelists include:

Keisha Perry Walker, Esq - The Perry Law Group

Kendall Minter, Esq - Greenspoon Marder

Jonathan D. Goins, Esq - Lewis Brisbois

Attorney James L. Walker, Jr. - Walker & Associates, LLP (Moderator)

(Note: The information shared is for educational purposes only and NOT TO BE CONSTRUED AS LEGAL ADVICE).

WELCOME TO ATLANTA

Friday, August 25, 2023 1:00 PM

Theater 3 - Landmark Midtown Art Cinema

Over the years Atlanta has evolved into a major hub for Film, TV & Commercial production, and now it’s growing on the business side of the industry as well. Join us for this exciting informational forum, as we welcome new companies to the Atlanta Market. Representatives will share why they’ve set up a base in Atlanta, their company’s goals, the services they provide, their ideal business partners, and how you can engage with them.

PowerHouse Panelists include:

Fatimah Abdullah - Head of Studio, BWA Studios

Victor V. Hogan, II - Producer/ Partner, QVH Media

Shaunya Chavis-Rucker - Fulton Films (Moderator)

Fatimah Abdullah Victor V. Hogan, II

Shaunya Chavis-Rucker

James L. Walker, Jr Moderator

Jonathan D. Goins

Keisha Perry Walker Kendall Minter Moderator

AMAZING STORIES FOUNDATION

Friday, August 25, 2023 2:30 PM

Theater 3 - Landmark Midtown Art Cinema

A fire-side discussion with Producer / Director Rob Hardy about the origin, trials and tribulations of Georgia’s film & TV industry, and the emergence of The Amazing Stories Foundation, which helps train career seekers from diverse backgrounds, seeking access and ‘below the line’ jobs on Atlanta area TV & movie sets.

PowerHouse Panelists include:

Rob Hardy - Amazing Stories

Aminatou Bolde (Host) - Amazing Stories Alumnus

INDELIBLE IMPACT - CELEBRATING ATLANTA’S HIP HOP LEGACY | POWERED BY THE MAYOR’S OFFICE OF FILM & ENTERTAINMENT

POWERED BY ATLANTA MAYOR’S OFFICE OF ENTERNTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

Friday, August 25, 2023 6:00 PM

Theater 3 - Landmark Midtown Art Cinema

BronzeLens & the Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Film & Entertainment invite you to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop! Join us for a special PowerHouse Panel as we take a look at the undeniable impact of Atlanta’s legacy on the genre & its intersection with film. In 2009, the New York Times called Atlanta “Hip Hop’s center of gravity” while it was also earning the title “Hollywood of the South”. Our panelists are industry veterans in both music & film and have been involved with some of the most iconic musical contributions to come out of the city in the past 30 years. The South definitely has something to say!

The panel discussion will be preceded by the official screening of the short documentary “Song of the South”.

PowerHouse Panelists include:

Ian Burke - Music Executive & Filmmaker

Lisa Cunningham - Film Director

Joe Howell - Producer

Cardellia Hunter - Director, AMOFEN (Moderator)

Phillana Williams - Director, AMOFEN (Moderator)

Lisa Cunningham

Phillana Williams Cardellia Hunter Joe Howell

Rob Hardy Ian Burke

Moderator Moderator

Our 2023 Jurors

Keshawn Morgan, Morehouse ‘23, Jahmil Eady, Filmmaker

Tia Davis, Clark Atlanta University ‘23

Tina Rodriguez, filmmaker

Jason Orr, FunkJazz Kafe

Malik Salaam, Director

Mercedez Springer, African American Film Critics Association

Condace Presley, African American Film Critics Association

Ray Cornelius, African American Film Critics Association

Michelle Rivera, A.I.R. Productions

Marchelle Thurman, filmmaker

Byron Horne, THB Productions

Anjanette Levert, Faculty, Spelman College

Sue Ross, Cultural Curator

Juel D. Lane, dancer, choreographer

Angela Harris, Dance Canvas

Shocarra Marcus, Dancer

Marcus Munroe, filmmaker

Dilsey Davis, filmmaker

Charity Jordan, Actress

Joe Howell, Stage Ten

OUR BOARD

EDDIE BRIDGEMAN THE SAI SAI GROUP INC.

TREY HALEY TRI DESTINED STUDIOS

JO ANN HADEN-MILLER ACVB

VICE CHAIR

CHAIR

TREASURER/PARLIMENTARIAN

FOUNDER/PRODUCER

KATHLEEN BERTRAND BRONZELENS FILM FESTIVAL

TYE HAYES N-OVATE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

ERICA QUALLS-BATTEY MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL

IMARA CANADY AIDS HEATHCARE FOUNDATION

VALARIE BENNING THOMPSON PRODUCER, PGA

JEANINE ARMSTRONG WARNER BROTHERS DISCOVERY/ CNN COLLECTION

SANQUINETTA DOVER DOVER STAFFING AND DOVER SOLUTIONS

JAMES WALKER, JR. WALKER & ASSOC.

Greetings, all!

I can’t even begin to tell you of the joy I have knowing that we have reached our 14th year of presenting the finest of indie filmmaking from content creators of color!

As a small non-profit organization, we have survived and thrived on love and passion, and on your backing for the work that we do. We don’t do what we do in a vacuum, and totally depend on a wide network of support. This message is about being thankful and blessed.

First, you should know that the BronzeLens team is outstanding, and it’s because of them that the BronzeLens experience is talked about nationwide. They personify excellence and I’m grateful for their contributions in building our brand. My personal thanks to Deidre, Nnena, Terri, Rhea, Chioma, Stephanie, Melissa, Verona, Jahannes, and Kim! Shout out to our supporting vendors since the beginning - AEE Productions and D. Jones Productions, Vause Computer Systems, and our webmaster Digigor, Inc!

I’m so excited about our Board of Directors, our newest members, the work they have done to ensure this year’s success, and the work that they will do as we get ready to celebrate our 15th year milestone.

BronzeLens has been blessed with 14 years of generous partners, collaborators, and sponsors who have believed in our vision and undergirded the work we do with their time and their contributions. We are grateful.

And where would we be without you, our filmmaking family! We appreciate you, we honor your creativity, and we’re glad that you chose to be a part of the BronzeLens family.

As we move into the 15th year, we will start our celebration early - with workshops and screenings and special events, like the return of the Women SuperStars Honors in early 2024.

If you haven’t already, I’m asking that you join our network of supporters. Please consider making a donation of any size to help ensure that we’re around for year 15 and beyond! See our QR code.

Kathleen Bertrand Founder/Executive Producer BronzeLens Film Festival

BRONZLENS TEAM

Founder & Executive Producer

Kathleen J. Bertrand

Founding Artistic Director

Deidre McDonald

Chief Financial Officer

Eddie Bridgeman

The Sai Sai Group

Producer | Director of Operations

Nnena U. Nchege

Associate Programmer

Melissa Randle

Production Coordinator

Ravi Windom

Public Relations Director

Terri Vismale-Morris

Social Media Manager

Rhea Posey

Volunteer Manager

Verona Eaton

Filmmaker Liaisons

Chioma Bertrand

Registration Manger

Stephanie Lee

Graphic Designers

Tkeban X.T. Jahannes

Kimberly ‘SpicyC’ Malhoit

Webmaster

Digigor, Inc. - TK.Walker

Videography

D. Jones and Associates

Photographers

Daniel Morris

Paul Biagui