5th Annual Film Festival

San Antonio is buzzing with excitement as the San Antonio Black International Film Festival hosts their 5th annual film festival. This milestone 5th year is themed around HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) -- 'HBCU Film Luv'. This four-day event promises to be a celebration of Black culture, creativity, and the power of storytelling through film. Each day of the festival has a unique theme and purpose, reflecting the richness and diversity of HBCU contributions to the world of cinema.

​Day 1 of OPENING NIGHT on October 5th will include the red carpet glamor, the film festival kicks off with a grand opening night that embodies elegance, style, and anticipation. As the sun sets over San Antonio, attendees arrive dressed in their finest attire, ready to walk the red carpet. The ceremony will be held at Carver Cultural Community Center to kick off the 4th Annual Ankh Achievement Awards will be presented to esteemed women in the Arts and Entertainment Industry, HBCU alumni, Texas natives; Phylicia Rashaad and Debbie Allen. The special evening will include catering from Black owned All Things Gourmet. The evening will include entertainment from San Antonio locals and celebrating the importance of HBCUs in nurturing talent and preserving African American culture. A post mix & mingle will be on the beautiful SA Riverwalk at a where else... ELSEWHERE-SA.

Day 2 On 10/6 of SABIFF 2023, we call it BLACK FRIDAY, the action takes place at SA's vibrant HBCU campus of St. Philip's College celebrated its 125th year anniversary, adding an educational dimension to the festivities. The morning kicks off with a series of informative sessions, engaging and workshops offering attendees a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of film production and storytelling. Of note is a youth actor's workshop by Charnele Brown, famous as Kimberly Reese from the beloved 90s series "A Different World." Student school field trips for middle and high school students are in effect this day for an enriching educational experience. As the morning progresses, the Watson Auditorium becomes the hub for cinematic magic, hosting Black international film screenings of the selected films in competition. For those eager to explore the campus, a special St. Philip's College campus tour is available, providing insights into the institution's rich 125 year history and contributions to education. After screening, attendees are treated to enlightening Q&A sessions with available filmmakers who are attending the festival, offering a deeper understanding of their creative process and the stories behind their remarkable works. We are rising, and the HBCU experience includes a powerful documentary and 'real talk' on all things HBCU. This is a time for parents, mentee organizations, and students to come out and take part in the HBCU Film & Forum at the Carver Community Cultural Center on the evening of 10/6. Networking continues at the Dakota Ice House down the street for a mix of good food, music, and company.

Day 3 Soul Saturday, the third day of the HBCU Film Festival, promises an unforgettable blend of cinematic experiences, creative workshops, and a dash of nostalgia. St. Philip's College continues to be the heart of the action as it hosts the final screenings of films in competition. The day also offers attendees the unique opportunity to engage with HBCU Creatives through a series of enriching workshops, including an intimate and interactive session led by the iconic actress Charnele Brown, (a.k.a.) Kimberly Reese of "A Different World" fame teaches Adult Acting this day (pre-registation is required at www.sabiff.tv) As the sun sets, the festival takes on a magical ambiance with "Cinema Under the Stars." The showcase of the evening is a nod to HBCU history as it features the timeless HBCU-themed musical 'dramedy' "School Daze" by HBCU (Morehouse) alumnus Spike Lee, celebrating the film's 35th anniversary. It's a night of nostalgia and celebration, complete with a live DJ, Greeks steppin' music, captivating entertainment, movie trivia with exciting giveaways, steppin', and a variety of vendors and food trucks offering delectable treats. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and blankets for a cozy viewing experience under the stars. And for those who want to delve deeper into the history of St. Philip's College, a night campus tour is available, adding an educational dimension to this festive evening.

DAY 4 - As the HBCU Film Festival approaches its grand finale on October 8th, SUNDAY GLORY promises a heartfelt and celebratory conclusion to this cinematic journey. The event unfolds at the Little Carver, a cozy event space behind the main Carver Community Cultural Center, setting the stage for an extravagant buffet brunch catered by Mo’s Kitchen. Hosted by Keith Scott from KROV Radio, Sunday Glory is a moment of anticipation as it marks the announcement of the winning films-in-competition, including the highly anticipated Audience Choice Award. Filmmakers, artists, and attendees gather to applaud the exceptional talent and creativity that graced the festival. The celebration continues with soulful musical performances by UTSA's talented jazz violinist Keith Beene, and soulful songstress Devon Mathews, adding a melodic dimension to the day's festivities to 'get your praise on'. Bringing SABIFF 2023's HBCU themed film festival to a triumphant close, leaving attendees with a deep sense of pride and inspiration for the future of Black storytelling in film.

A special shout out to SABIFF 2023's sponsors: SA Film Commission, the San Antonio Area Foundation, H-E-B is definitely helping here, as is the Community Renewal Society and gracious donations from the community and small businesses. Check out and explore on sabiff.tv's website. You'll be able to catch some events, both virtual and live, with an All Access purchase and a mix of other pass offerings to paid and free festivities.

It's a wrap till Oct. 2024! For more information on the events, head to www.sabiff.tv #SABIFF, #BlackCinema, #HBC, #FILMSA

Blog by,
Jael Colbourne
HU... You Know!