Welcome To

23rd African American Women In Cinema Film Festival

Scroll down


Welcome to the 23rd African American Women In Cinema Film Festival (AAWIC FF)! The African American Women in Cinema Film Festival is one of the most celebrated female film events in the country. Every year, the AAWIC Film Festival shines its luminous spotlight onto ambitious women filmmakers from all over the world. Since 1998, the AAWICFF has premiered a number of distinctive films and hosted educational keynote panels as well as workshops. 

This year will be Historic as it will feature the premiere of Bobby's Kids on Opening Night, by esteemed filmmaker, Brandi Mitchell. It will also include the Honoring of prominent industry professionals including Sierra McDonald, WE tv Manager, Development & Original Programming, Juanita Stokes, a Multi-Talented Filmmaker whose films she produced became among the most highly rated urban films on both Netflix and BET and the Iconic Marsha Warfield, Comedian and Actress. 

The event will also feature the next generation of filmmakers sponsored by Idea Center for the Arts.  There will be workshops on screenplay writing as well as film editing, and audiences will be able to vote for their favorite film! Get your Festival All Access Pass today!

For the 23rd AAWIC Film Festival Agenda and details click here

For Keynote Panels and Workshops click on the "Screenings" tab above!

To attend all Programs click on the blue "Tickets" button at the bottom of the page!


Start Date

March 23, 2023, 6:30 pm

End Date

March 25, 2023, 11:59 pm

Social Pages

Films At The Festival

Filter Results

23rd AAWIC Film Festival Opening Night

23rd AAWIC Film Festival Opening Night

access_time Viewing Times March 23, 2023, 6:30 pm EST
Online Live Screenings

BOBBY’S KIDS is the story of how one man empowered a whole generation of inner-city Detroit kids to see the possibility of going to college through music. Bobby L. Brown was the iconic band director of the Mackenzie High School “Band of Renown” of Detroit, a school most known for sports and turning out professional athletes, one of which was football legend and National Football Hall of Fame awardee Jerome Bettis who attended school at the same time Brown built the band. Mr. Brown, a Southern University graduate and alumni of the famed band The Human Jukebox brought the HBCU (Historical Black College and University) Marching Band culture to Detroit in the 80s when drugs, murders, and crime were at an all-time high. Determined to show his students what was possible and building a band from nothing, in just a few short years the band had risen to national acclaim and Brown had sent dozens of students on scholarships to Southern University and other HBCUs like Florida A&M, Jackson State, Tuskegee, University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Delaware State, and Alabama State - all on band scholarships. At one time Mr. Brown had nearly 40 students all from Mackenzie High School attending Southern University on band scholarships - a record that has yet to be broken and a little-known historic achievement. These students of Mackenzie’s Band of Renown would affectionately be known as “Bobby’s Kids”.

To attend Opening Night click on the "Purchase Ticket" button under the "Screenings" section below or click here! (This only applies if you're not on the actual Opening Night screening page).

Please note that "Host a Screening" is related to BingeWave opportunities

Please be advised as Per BingeWave that the "Host Screening" button is not a functional button including the application. Please do not fill out the application as this will not yield any results. Thank you for your attention in this matter.

International Corner | Josephine Baker | A Global Icon

International Corner | Josephine Baker | A Global Icon

access_time Viewing Times March 23, 2023, 11:59 pm EST
Online Live Screenings

​​A sneak peek of "Dear Josephine" (AAWIC Studios LLC Production) which is a film about the Global Iconic Josephine Baker. Ms. Baker was an American-born French dancer, singer, and actress. Baker was celebrated by artists and intellectuals of the era, who variously dubbed her the"BlackVenus", the"BlackPearl", the"BronzeVenus", and the"Creole Goddess" she was born in St.Louis, Missouri. She aided the French Resistance during World War II. After the war, she was awarded the Resistance Medal by the French Committee of National Liberation, the Croix de Guerre by the French military, and was named a Chevalier of the Légion d'honneur by General Charles de Gaulle. Baker sang: "I have two loves, my country, and Paris."The film is Executive Produced by Terra Renee, Produced by Chef Ashbell and Terence Gordon.

Please note that "Host a Screening" is related to BingeWave opportunities

Please be advised as Per BingeWave that the "Host Screening" button is not a functional button including the application. Please do not fill out the application as this will not yield any results. Thank you for your attention in this matter.

Screening Program 3

Screening Program 3

access_time Viewing Times March 24, 2023, 12:01 am EST
Online Live Screenings

 screening Program 3

 Webisodes & Series

 Struggle In America The Saga of Enipheres Web Series-By Lynne Newton

 Switching Lanes

 

 Please Vote for your Favorite Webisodes & Series by clicking here!

 To access your 23rd AAWIC Virtual Film Festival Program Journal please click here!

 To access your 23rd AAWIC Virtual Film Festival Digital Swag Bag please click here!

Officially Invited | Silver Dollar Group Ku Klux Klan

Officially Invited | Silver Dollar Group Ku Klux Klan

access_time Viewing Times March 24, 2023, 12:01 am EST
Online Live Screenings

During the 1950s through the 1970s in Northeastern Louisiana and Southwestern Mississippi, the Silver Dollar Group (SDG) terrorized that geographical area. They were referred to as the most heinous sect of the Ku Klux Klan a terrorist organization. This documentary is a multi-faceted summary of the hate injected by them. They didn’t burn crosses or wear white hoods. Their symbol was a silver dollar that each member always carried on their person. During that time, there were no more than 15 to 20 members that created a hotbed of murders. They committed many tortures, drownings, hangings, burnings, and arson. They are credited with killing 8 black men and 1 white man. He was what they called a “nigga lover”. In December 1964, Frank Morris was locked into his shoe repair shop and the shop was burned to the ground. 99% of his body was burned. He lived 4 days which was long enough to describe his murderer. A Klans member, Coonie Poissot told the FBI 3 years after the arson that Deputy Frank Delaughter, a Klansman was livid with Frank Morris after he refused to repair his shoes for free any longer. A 3rd man Leonard Spencer also assisted in the arson. 5 years later, Mr. David Whatley who was 20 years old was recruited by the community black leaders to desegregate Ferriday High School. The Congress of Racial Equality(CORE) led by Roy Innis assisted Mr. Whatley with getting to and from the school. But after he entered those doors, he was kicked spat on, pushed, and assaulted. One night, Sonny Taylor a leader of the SDG planted a bomb in his grandmother’s home. Roy Innis, Whatley, and his grandmother were inside. The bomb did not detonate correctly, saving their lives. In this documentary, Dianne Andrews brings Debra Taylor, Sonny Taylor’s (an SDG leader) daughter for a surprise meeting with Mr.Whatley. In a heartfelt tearful conversation, she asks Mr. Whatley for forgiveness for her father’s evil actions. Mr.Whatley humbly accepts and tells her it is not her fault for what he had done. They have become friends. A book on this era written by Stanley Nelson, named ”Devils Walking”, is a Pulitzer Prize nominee. Mr. Nelson is interviewed in this film. This film will bring you crucial little-known history. But you will feel better about where we are headed today-with a long way to go.

To attend the "Silver Dollar Group Ku Klux Klan" screening click on the "Purchase Ticket" button under the "Screenings" section below or click here! (This only applies if you're not on the actual "Silver Dollar Group Ku Klux Klan" screening page).

Age Rating | General (12 and Older)

Complimentary Screening | Beyond The Vows

Complimentary Screening | Beyond The Vows

access_time Viewing Times March 24, 2023, 12:01 am EST
Online Live Screenings

The movie adaption of the book “Beyond The Vows” explores marriage and love's imperfection. A newly married couple seeks to heal old wounds while trying to discover what real, unconditional love looks like in their lives. Can they unlock the secrets of love, faith, and understanding before the pressures and temptations of the world around them rip apart their new union?

Please note that "Host a Screening" is related to BingeWave opportunities

Please be advised as Per BingeWave that the "Host Screening" button is not a functional button including the application. Please do not fill out the application as this will not yield any results. Thank you for your attention in this matter.

Screening Program 4

Screening Program 4

access_time Viewing Times March 24, 2023, 12:01 am EST
Online Live Screenings

Witnessing is remembering. Remembering is witnessing.

A woman witnesses a murder of a young boy by a police officer and suffers from a prolonged mental breakdown that renders her incapable of leaving her apartment. A meditation on Black mobility and the terror of moving through space, time, and collective mourning.

Please note that "Host a Screening" is related to BingeWave opportunities

Please be advised as Per BingeWave that the "Host Screening" button is not a functional button including the application. Please do not fill out the application as this will not yield any results. Thank you for your attention in this matter.

Screening Program 2

Screening Program 2

access_time Viewing Times March 24, 2023, 12:01 am EST
Online Live Screenings

 Screening Program 2

 Documentaries & Educational

 Freedom Day

 Mayor Pro Tem - William "Pete" Kennedy

 The Poison Garden

 Please Vote for your Favorite Documentary by clicking here!

 To access your 23rd AAWIC Virtual Film Festival Program Journal please click here!

 To access your 23rd AAWIC Virtual Film Festival Digital Swag Bag please click here!

Screening Program 1

Screening Program 1

access_time Viewing Times March 24, 2023, 12:01 am EST
Online Live Screenings

 Screening Program 1 

 Shorts

 Truth in Plain Sight 

 Johnny, I Want My Liver Back 

 Jillian's Peak 

 Race My Husband Home

 30 Weeks 

 InVade 

 Marble Eyed Tanner 

 Letter to Gaia

 Three Birds

 Serro

 Please Vote for your Favorite Shorts by clicking here

 To access your 23rd AAWIC Virtual Film Festival Program Journal please click here!

 To access your 23rd AAWIC Virtual Film Festival Digital Swag Bag please click here!

Next Generation Filmmakers

Next Generation Filmmakers

access_time Viewing Times March 24, 2023, 12:01 am EST
Online Live Screenings

 Next Generation Filmmakers 

 A Cold Kill

 No Means No

 Broken Pieces

 Notebook

 Quiet

 To access your 23rd AAWIC Virtual Film Festival Program Journal please click here!

 To access your 23rd AAWIC Virtual Film Festival Digital Swag Bag please click here!

Keynote Panel | Getting Pitch and Produced in Post-COVID

Keynote Panel | Getting Pitch and Produced in Post-COVID

access_time Viewing Times March 24, 2023, 11:00 am EST
Online Live Screenings

In today’s world Post Covid, listen to industry leaders discuss how to move forward with your project!

Sponsored by Crystal Ship Artists Agency!

To attend Keynote Panel click on the "Purchase Ticket" button under the "Screenings" section below!

Please note that "Host a Screening" is related to BingeWave opportunities

Please be advised as Per BingeWave that the "Host Screening" button is not a functional button including the application. Please do not fill out the application as this will not yield any results. Thank you for your attention in this matter.

How to create a compelling screenplay | Writer's Workshop

How to create a compelling screenplay | Writer's Workshop

access_time Viewing Times March 24, 2023, 1:00 pm EST
Online Live Screenings

The writer's workshop teaches how to understand the necessary steps in creating a compelling screenplay.

To attend The Workshop click on the "Purchase Ticket" button under the "Screenings" section below or click here! (This only applies if you're not on the actual Workshop screening page).

Please note that "Host a Screening" is related to BingeWave opportunities

Please be advised as Per BingeWave that the "Host Screening" button is not a functional button including the application. Please do not fill out the application as this will not yield any results. Thank you for your attention in this matter.

A Conversation with Marsha Warfield | Hosted by Marsha Taylor | CEO of LOL Comedy Honors
Online Live Screenings

A unique insightful conversation with the Iconic Comedian & Actress Marsha Warfield. Best known for her role as Roz Russell on the longest-running sitcom, “Night Court,” Ms. Warfield talks about the industry, being an actress, and beyond, a must-hear! Moderated by Founder & CEO of LOL Comedy Honors, Marsha Taylor.

Sponsored by LOL Comedy Honors!

Available to Festival All-Acess Pass Holders only!

Please note that "Host a Screening" is related to BingeWave opportunities

Please be advised as Per BingeWave that the "Host Screening" button is not a functional button including the application. Please do not fill out the application as this will not yield any results. Thank you for your attention in this matter.

A Conversation with the Forkshop | Hosted by Tam Lawrence | CEO of Exposure Plus TV

A Conversation with the Forkshop | Hosted by Tam Lawrence | CEO of Exposure Plus TV

access_time Viewing Times March 24, 2023, 3:00 pm EST
Online Live Screenings

Come listen to the Executive Producers of the groundbreaking program called “The Forkshop.” The Executive Producers discuss how filmmakers can develop their skills, work on real projects, and much, much more!

Sponsored by the CEO of Exposure Plus TV!

Available to Festival All-Acess Pass Holders only!

Please note that "Host a Screening" is related to BingeWave opportunities

Please be advised as Per BingeWave that the "Host Screening" button is not a functional button including the application. Please do not fill out the application as this will not yield any results. Thank you for your attention in this matter. 

Sponsors Lounge | Hosted by Khalilah Webster | Media Personality

Sponsors Lounge | Hosted by Khalilah Webster | Media Personality

access_time Viewing Times March 24, 2023, 6:30 pm EST
Online Live Screenings

For Sponsors Only!

A Conversation with Tonia Grady | Hosted by Tam Lawrence | CEO of Exposure Plus TV

A Conversation with Tonia Grady | Hosted by Tam Lawrence | CEO of Exposure Plus TV

access_time Viewing Times March 25, 2023, 11:00 am EST
Online Live Screenings

A candid conversation with the newly appointed VP of Reading Film Studios, Tonia Grady, highlighting the difficulties that women of color face in this industry! Moderated by the CEO of Exposure Plus TV, Tam Lawrence is a must-listen!

Sponsored by Exposure Plus TV!

Available to Festival All-Acess Pass Holders only!

Please note that "Host a Screening" is related to BingeWave opportunities

Please be advised as Per BingeWave that the "Host Screening" button is not a functional button including the application. Please do not fill out the application as this will not yield any results. Thank you for your attention in this matter.

TECHNIQUES ON VIDEO EDITING FOR DOCUMENTARIES | EDITOR'S WORKSHOP

TECHNIQUES ON VIDEO EDITING FOR DOCUMENTARIES | EDITOR'S WORKSHOP

access_time Viewing Times March 25, 2023, 1:00 pm EST
Online Live Screenings

The class will dive into a basic understanding of the processes, aesthetics, and technical theory involved in non-linear editing for documentary and narrative filmmaking. The class will examine diverse editing styles and ideas and how it affects the audience's perception, mood, and experience.

To attend The Workshop click on the "Purchase Ticket" button under the "Screenings" section below or click here!  (This only applies if you're not on the actual Workshop screening page).

Please note that "Host a Screening" is related to BingeWave opportunities

Please be advised as Per BingeWave that the "Host Screening" button is not a functional button including the application. Please do not fill out the application as this will not yield any results. Thank you for your attention in this matter.

Keynote Panel | Health and Wellness | Special Screening of
Online Live Screenings

In celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the AAWIC Audience Award-Winning film, “Even Me,” join Dr. Megan Megan Ebor and the esteemed panel as they discuss HIV and AIDS among older adults. This unique panel comes with a special film screening of “Even Me” which is a documentary that gives a face to the older adult group that has been identified as an invisible at-risk population.

To attend The Keynote Panel click on the "Purchase Ticket" button under the "Screenings" section below or click here! (This only applies if you're not on the actual Keynote Panel screening page).

Please note that "Host a Screening" is related to BingeWave opportunities

Please be advised as Per BingeWave that the "Host Screening" button is not a functional button including the application. Please do not fill out the application as this will not yield any results. Thank you for your attention in this matter.

Filmmakers Lounge | Hosted by Raheem Hamilton

Filmmakers Lounge | Hosted by Raheem Hamilton

access_time Viewing Times March 25, 2023, 5:30 pm EST
Online Live Screenings

For filmmakers only!