SABIFF 2025 - 'BLACK FRIDAY'
MORNING:
Day 2 of SABIFF brings a powerful blend of culture, community, and cinematic brilliance — a Friday we proudly infuse with Black enlightenment. We begin with a student matinee designed for Creatives, Filmmakers, and Supporters eager to engage, learn from industry pros and social justice advocates, and experience rare, globally resonant stories aligned with our ACTIonVISM theme.
AFTERNOON (free-time)
Out-of-town guests can explore the city at their pace --DISCOVER THE SOUL OF SAN ANTONIO - KARIBU!
EVENING
The evening unfolds at our historic Carver Community Cultural Center with a V.I.P. reception for All-Access Pass holders and visiting filmmakers, followed by a spectacular Red Carpet Celebration and our signature Ankh Achievement Award honoring two legendary filmmakers: Ava DuVernay and Haile Gerima, with a special guest appearance by his UCLA Rebellion comrade, Charles Burnett. Gerima’s iconic film SANKOFA will be screened, followed by a thought-provoking audience Q&A. We close the evening with good vibes moving over to San Antonio’s River Walk at Elsewhere-SA. Day 2 is all about empowerment — through Black Excellence, Disruptors, Change makers; all courageous Visionaries engaged in ACTION.
Day 2 of SABIFF brings a powerful blend of culture, community, and cinematic brilliance — a Friday we proudly infuse with Black enlightenment. We begin with a student matinee designed for Creatives, Filmmakers, and Supporters eager to engage, learn from industry pros and social justice advocates, and experience rare, globally resonant stories aligned with our ACTIonVISM theme.
AFTERNOON (free-time)
Out-of-town guests can explore the city at their pace --DISCOVER THE SOUL OF SAN ANTONIO - KARIBU!
EVENING
The evening unfolds at our historic Carver Community Cultural Center with a V.I.P. reception for All-Access Pass holders and visiting filmmakers, followed by a spectacular Red Carpet Celebration and our signature Ankh Achievement Award honoring two legendary filmmakers: Ava DuVernay and Haile Gerima, with a special guest appearance by his UCLA Rebellion comrade, Charles Burnett. Gerima’s iconic film SANKOFA will be screened, followed by a thought-provoking audience Q&A. We close the evening with good vibes moving over to San Antonio’s River Walk at Elsewhere-SA. Day 2 is all about empowerment — through Black Excellence, Disruptors, Change makers; all courageous Visionaries engaged in ACTION.
DAY #2 - MORNING 9 AM - 12:45 PM
SPECIAL GUEST DIRECTOR - CHARLES BURNETT
SABIFF's FIRST ANKH ACHIEVEMENT AWARD HONOREE 2020
SABIFF's FIRST ANKH ACHIEVEMENT AWARD HONOREE 2020
SABIFF is elated to welcome acclaimed filmmaker Charles Burnett in person this year. Burnett was our inaugural Ankh Achievement Honoree in 2020, during the height of the COVID shutdown. A pioneer of UCLA's L.A. Rebellion movement, Burnett is celebrated for his deeply human, realistic portrayals of African American life. Born in Mississippi and raised in Watts, Los Angeles, he emerged from UCLA’s graduate film program with his landmark thesis film Killer of Sheep (1977), later selected for the Library of Congress’ National Film Registry. Over four decades, he has written, directed, and produced more than a dozen narrative and documentary films, both independently and within Hollywood. His accolades include the prestigious MacArthur “Genius” Grant and the National Society of Film Critics’ Best Screenplay Award for To Sleep with Anger (1990). SABIFF 2025 is honored to have this legendary cinematic voice among this year’s honorees.
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AFTER THE CARVER... Let's venture to
Elsewhere on the River Walk! Established in 2020, Elsewhere Garden is a whimsical 'hidden gem' on the San Antonio Riverwalk. This patio-kitchen & bar is a friendly place to unwind & relax. The trees, plants and porch swings overlooking the river, create an outdoor oasis. [MENU: FOOD & DRINKS]
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