Mark the calendar: The seventh annual BlackStar Film Festival, celebrating independent black cinema returns to Philly Thursday, August 2 through Sunday, August 5, showcasing films that capture the black experience and the visual and storytelling traditions of the African diaspora and indigenous communities from around the world.
“We are incredibly excited to enter our 7th edition with new work and fresh perspectives from filmmakers from all over the globe!” says founder and artistic director Maori Karmael Holmes. “We can’t wait to announce the premieres and special programming we’ll roll out over the four days of the festival.”
This year’s pre-Festival event, to be held on July 1 from 3 -4:30 pm at the Barnes Foundation, will feature senior program manager Nehad Khader in conversation with past Festival filmmakers about their vision and work.
Festival All-Access Passes are available for pre-sale for $120 until June 30.
Screenings take place at Lightbox Film Center and Pearlstein Gallery at Drexel University. The Opening Night dance party on Thursday, August 2, will be held at Johnny Brenda’s. The juried Youth Program will also be held at Pearlstein Gallery on Saturday, August 4. Other highlights include the Awards Ceremony at World Cafe Live, held this year on Sunday, August 5.
The full slate of films, parties and events will be announced in the coming weeks. For more information on the festival and its programs, visit blackstarfest.org or facebook.com/BlackStarFest.
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