The Urban Film Festival in Miami is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, marking a significant milestone in its evolution from a local event into an international gathering of filmmakers and creatives.
What began as a modest celebration of independent art has grown into a vibrant showcase featuring over 150 projects, including documentaries, dramas, web series, and music videos.
Running from August 29-31, the festival embraces various themes such as grief, love, family, friendship, and community resilience.
Amber Iman, a Tony-nominated actress, is showcasing her latest short film, BlackBerry Winter, at the festival. “We can’t wait for the studios. We can’t wait on anyone to give us the permission to be great,” she says, emphasizing the festival’s role in elevating diverse voices in filmmaking.
BlackBerry Winter tells the story of a couple navigating the complexities of a long-distance relationship, highlighted by emotional struggles stemming from infidelity.
Iman describes the film as exploring universal themes, stating, “Even if you’ve never been cheated on, someone has been dishonest, something has been broken in your life, in your spirit.”
The film features a strong cast and crew, including director Jason Hightower and co-producer Arizona Dakota, all working together to bring Iman’s personal narrative to life.
Nika King’s short film, For Sale, prompts further introspection on grief and loss. Written and directed by the Miami-Dade native and recognized for her acclaimed performance on HBO’s Euphoria, this film presents a poignant exploration of a couple mourning the loss of their daughter.
Reflecting on her directorial debut, King aims to challenge stereotypes in Black relationships and showcase the varied ways people experience grief.
“The husband finds comfort in holding on, while the wife feels the only way to survive is to let go,” she describes, emphasizing the complexities of love and loss.
Yanatha Desouvre’s film, Stay With Me, directed by Samuel Ladouceur, broadens the focus to tackle systemic corruption in Haiti through the lens of a journalist facing a moral dilemma.
Desouvre, who is also a professor of entrepreneurship at Miami Dade College, details the importance of journalism in exposing the truth and holding the powerful accountable.
The festival not only features serious narratives and personal reflections but also showcases comedies like Child Support and 20 Pounds to Happiness.
Child Support, directed by Ebony Elliott, presents a hilarious journey of a West Palm Beach man’s misadventures after receiving a child support subpoena, while Yelyna De León’s 20 Pounds to Happiness tackles themes of body positivity in a romantic comedy context.
Black History Toonz, an innovative Black-owned animation studio from West Palm Beach, is also making an appearance at the festival, presenting its award-winning animated series, including the recently honored Jackie Robinson feature.
As the festival kicks off, organizers are focused on expanding its programming and influence in years to come.
Nika King envisions a future where independent storytelling becomes increasingly bold and multifaceted. She believes there is a growing need for space to amplify untapped voices in the industry.
“Storytellers aren’t dependent on traditional gatekeepers, which opens the door for more personal, diverse stories,” King adds, highlighting a positive shift within filmmaking that the Urban Film Festival embodies.
As Miami hosts this celebration of creativity and expression, this year’s Urban Film Festival underscores the importance of authentic narratives and innovative storytelling within the film industry.
image source from：wlrn
