JANUARY 27 - FEBRUARY 1, 2021

FILM | ART | MUSIC Denton Municipal SPOKEN WORD | DANCE Electric has been PANELS | WORKSHOPS Denton’s hometown Presented by Denton African American Scholarship Foundation, Inc. electric provider for over 110 years.

DENTONBFF.COM

ADA/ADEA/EOE TDD: (800) 735-2989 1/16 www.cityofdenton.com Every lens tells a story. Find the right one for yours.

Cheers to the storytellers.

www.panavision.com MESSAGE Our Presenting Sponsor

On behalf of Panavision, I’m thrilled to welcome you to the seventh annual Denton Black Film Festival.

Panavision is a global provider of camera equipment, lighting packages, and post production services. As a company, we are dedicated to equipping Every lens tells a story. filmmakers around the world to bring their visions to life. Since 2018, we’ve been proud to partner with and sponsor the Denton Black Film Festival. Find the right one for yours. The organization’s focus on building community, sharing Black culture, and addressing underrepresentation in film and media is both essential and inspiring. We are honored to support this event, which provides an audience Cheers to the storytellers. for Black stories, a platform for Black creatives, and a showcase for their work.

At Panavision, we believe we have a responsibility to positively support and impact underrepresented communities. It is our goal to empower individuals from these communities who aspire to or already work in the film, television, and commercial arenas. Through the grants that we present to select award recipients at the Denton Black Film Festival, we aim to provide vital access to equipment and services so that Black filmmakers will have the tools they need to succeed in creating and sharing the diverse stories that need to be told.

This seventh edition of the festival, taking place nearly 12 months into a global pandemic, will certainly be unlike any of the previous six years. Nevertheless, the festival continues to expand the scope of the work it spotlights and embrace new platforms to reach and connect with an ever-growing audience. Over its six days of programming, the festival will present more than 100 films along with art, music, screen dance, poetry, spoken word, panels, and workshops. www.panavision.com We’re excited about what’s to come, at this year’s festival and beyond, as Panavision and the Denton Black Film Festival continue to build upon our work together to support, encourage, and promote the work of Black storytellers.

Enjoy the festival!

Sincerely,

Kim Snyder President and CEO, Panavision

3 ENGAGE DENTON

ENGAGE DENTON is City of Denton’s ENGAGE DENTON is City of Denton’s mobile app that allows you to: mobile app that allows you to: • Request City services • Request City services • Report potholes and street issues • Report potholes and street issues • Submit property maintenance issues • Submit property maintenance issues • Sign up for weekly solid waste and • Sign up for weekly solid waste and recycling reminders recycling reminders • Pay your utility bill and more! • Pay your utility bill and more! It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3: It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3: 1. Download Engage Denton in the 1. Download Engage Denton in the App Store or Google Play App Store or Google Play 2. Select your request type 2. Select your request type 3. Add a picture and description 3. Add a picture and description wwThenw .engagedenton.comthe City will get to work! wwThenw .engagedenton.comthe City will get to work!

www.engagedenton.com

www.cityofdenton.com • ADA/EOE/ADEA • TDD (800) 735-2989 www.cityofdenton.com • ADA/EOE/ADEA • TDD (800) 735-2989 MESSAGE DAASF President and DBFF Festival Director

On behalf of the Board of The Denton African American Scholarship Foundation and serving as festival director for the Denton Black Film Festival, I welcome you to our Seventh Annual Festival. As the sponsoring organization for the festival we are very excited to have Panvision as our 2021 presenting sponsor. They are the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of high- precision lenses for the motion picture and television industries, and one of the world’s leading providers of camera systems, including both film and digital cameras. Their support of filmmakers and impact in the industry is significant. We thank all our sponsors and volunteers that have made the festival what it is today, and due to COVID-19 we will be a virtual festival for 2021!

We are a cultural festival which comprises many aspects of black culture that you will experience this week. There have been a number of major issues that have impacted all of us, and we decided this year we would “tell our stories” through film, art, music, spoken word, workshops, panels, tech talks, and we are introducing screen dance and traditional poetry to the festival. Our goal is to help you “experience culture” through storytellers from all backgrounds and disciplines.

The virtual world is new to us but we are finding our voice, and we have much to share with you. There is over 100 hours of content for you to see and just 6 days to experience it! Did anyone say binge watch?

Going virtual has allowed us to share most of the content to you by video on demand (VOD) so you can view at your leisure. We will have some suggested screening times with live Q&A’s and many of the (free) workshops, panels and tech talks will have schedule times.

We will screen 138 films with over 62 hours of film content from some of the best independent filmmakers from around the world. We have expanded the Institute’s workshops & panels including social and environmental justice topics and tech talks. Tatiana “Lady May” Mayfield will perform at the legendary Dan’s Silverleaf and what a voice! Betelhem Makonnen, a nationally recognized artist is our featured visual artist along with a collection of Dick Hendricks works, and we are very excited to share their works with you.

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5 MESSAGE continued

Although we have created this special week for you, the real reason for the event is our graduating high school seniors who are seeking scholarships to help pursue their dreams of a college education, as many of us were at one point in our life. Last year, we celebrated 36 years of service to the community. We are passionate about making a difference in the lives of students, and we know education is the great equalizer.

Thank you again for supporting us and attending our virtual event. We hope you have a great time this weekend and please consider helping us make a difference with a donation to our 2021 festival and scholarship organization.

Sincerely,

Harry Eaddy President DAASF, Inc.

6

Delamar Place

116 W. College St.,

Denton TX 76201

(940) 323 – 2656

www.delamarmarketing.com

Where community, inspiration, and creativity connect

COMING SPRING 2021

7 NOTABLE LOSSES of 2020

Although there are many others that we lost during 2020, the Denton Black Film Festival would like to recognize these monumental people for their contributions to the entertainment industry, as well as society. Their talents, witnessed by many, will be remembered. * indicates complications due to COVID-19

Chadwick Boseman, died on August 28 at *Toots Hibbert, the reggae icon Frederick age 43 following a secret four-year battle with “Toots” Hibbert died in Kingston, Jamaica on colon cancer. September 11 at the age of 77.

Attorney Bruce Boynton, Civil rights activist Jarad Anthony Higgins, an American rapper and Selma native, died on November 23 at popularly known as Juice WRLD, died on age 83. December 8.

Bobby Brown Jr., the son of singer Bobby Pamela Hutchinson, 61 year old R&B singer Brown died in his Los Angeles home on on September 18 succumbed to health November 20. challenges that she had been battling for several years. Kobe Bryant passed away in a helicopter crash on January 26 in Calabasas, California, Bashar Barakah Jackson, up and coming alongside his 13-year-old daughter Gianna. He Brooklyn rapper popularized as Pop Smoke, was 41. died on February 19.

Fred L. Davis, civic leader and businessman Wilson Roosevelt Jerman, an American died in Memphis, TN on May 12. He was 86. butler who served may presidents in the White House died on May 16. Chi Chi DeVayne, known for her appearances on “Rupaul’s Drag Race” died after a battle Katherine Johnson, the pioneering “Hidden with pneumonia. She was 34. Figures” NASA mathematician died February 24 at 101 years old. Ja’Net DuBois, the actress who played the role of Willona Woods on “Good Times,” died Rocky Johnson died January 15 of a heart February 18 at the age of 74. attack at the age if 75.

John “Ecstasy” Fletcher, founder of the John Lewis, Georgia Representative and 1980s hip hop group Whodini died December iconic civil rights pioneer died on July 17 at 23 at 56. the age of 80 following a battle with Stage IV pancreatic cancer. Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Supreme Court justice and civil rights leader, died on September 18 Doreen Montalvo, actress died at age 56 on from complications of metastatic pancreas October 17 after a sudden ailment. cancer. She was 87.

8 Johnny Nash, singer-songwriter died on B. Smith, celebrated restaurateur and model, October 6 at the age of 80 at his home in died February 22 after struggling with early Houston. onset Alzheimer’s disease.

*Charley Pride, country superstar died in *Carol Sutton, actress, died in New Orleans Dallas on December 12 of complications of on December 10 after a month long battle with coronavirus, he was 86 years old. COVID-19 at the age of 76.

Natalie Desselle Reid, actress died on John Thompson Jr., the first African December 7 at the age of 53 after battling American coach to lead his team to the NCAA colon cancer. championship died August 30 at the age of 78.

Little Richard, singer and pianist whose hit Wes Unseld, professional basketball Hall of songs of the mid-1950s shaped rock and roll, Famer died on June 2 due to pneumonia at died May 9. the age of 74.

*Arnie Robinson Jr., former Olympian died on Jas Waters, a television writer who penned December 1 following a battle with COVID-19. scripts for hit shows like “This Is Us”, died at He was 73 years old. 39 years old.

Stanley Robinson, former UConn basketball Ben Watkins, a Master Chef Junior Star, died player, died in Alabama on July 22 at the age at the young age of 14 from a rare form of of 32. cancer.

Robert Ryland, first Black professional tennis Bob Watson, a two-time All-Star and the first player and later a coach for Serena and Venus black general manager to win a Wold Series Williams, died on August 2 at the age of 100. died at the age of 74.

Gale Sayers, former Chicago Bears star died *Bruce Williamson, the singer who led September 23 at the age of 77 after living with The Temptations died from coronavirus on dementia. September 6 at the age of 50.

Esther Scott, actress died on February 14 in Bill Withers, soulful singer died from heart Loss Angeles at the age of 66. complications at the age of 81.

Betty Wright, the award-winner R&B soul singer died May 9 at the age of 66.

9 MERCHANT Thank You

We would to like to thank all of you for your support in the past and particularly this year since the festival is virtual and we will not be on the square. Hopefully everyone will continue to support local business no matter where you live because they are the life blood of our communities. All though we are not physically with you to thank you and please know that we appreciate you. Have a prosperous 2021!

Houlihan’s Sleeping Lizzards J & J Pizza The Chestnut Tree Barley & Board Rooster’s Roadhouse Harvest House Hoochie’s LSA Burger Company Gyro 360 Mediterranean Through the Woods Photography Norman Roscoe Paschall Bar Beth Marie’s RnR Sushi OLLI UNT Andys JT Clothiers Pizza Snob Andaman Thai Restaurant Psalms Home Care Dan’s Silverleaf Thai Square 940’s Kitchen & Cocktails Juicy Pig Barbeque Mellow Mushroom Complete Foot and Ankle Care Sweetwater Grill & Tavern Logan’s Shoe Shop Little Guy Mover’s Nail Treatment Center Steve’s Wine Bar Tex Tapas Campus Theater

10 COMMUNITY Partners

11 FILM « TELEVISION « COMMERCIAL « ANIMATION « VFX « GAME « XR

Texas MEDIA PRODUCTION IS Open

Find safety resources for your production at GOV.TEXAS.GOV/FILM/CORONAVIRUS SPONSORS

SPONSORING ORGANIZATION Denton African American Scholarship Foundation, Inc

DIAMOND NBC 5 City of Denton Panavision

GOLD UNT Division of Institutional Equity and Diversity | UNT Media Arts UNT College of Liberal Arts and Social Science | UNT on the Square TWU College of Arts and Sciences | TWU Institute for Women’s Leadership TWU Department of Dance | TWU Office of the Chancellor

SILVER Denton Record Chronicle Greater Denton Arts Council

BRONZE DCTA | Peterbilt | NBC 5 | AMP Creative | AMP Studios NCTC | FSB Exchange Denton | Humanities Texas

COPPER Walmart | Texas Health Resources | Texas Film Commission Fort Worth Film Commission | Jim Austin Online | Anderson First State Bank | Film Freeway | Josh Goler | Nuby Pediatrics Rev Reginald and Bonnie Logan | Harry and Linda Eaddy

PATRONS Denton Black Chamber of Commerce | Dallas Film Commission Campus Theatre | Access Bank | Dallas Producers Association

FRIENDS Morse Street Baptist Church | Galilee Missionary Baptist Church Paul Meltzer | M. Legend Brown | Denton County Friends of the Family

13 Recycling Made Easy www.cityofdenton.com/recycling Use the new Waste Wizard search feature to find the best disposal solutions Learn how to dispose of hundreds of items in an environmentally friendly manner. Proper disposal prevents recycling contamination, diverts waste from the landfill, and gives old items a new life. To use the Waste Wizard search feature, visit www.cityofdenton.com/recycling. Type in the item you are looking to get rid of, such as “Clothes” See options for disposal! For more information on waste collection, call Customer Service at (940) 349-8700. Produced by PCO • 1/17 • ADA/EOE/ADEA • TDD: (800) 735-2989

OF DEN Y TO IT N C

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L N I I D L W C A C Y S T E & R E Produced by the City of Denton • 1/2020 • ADA/EOE/ADEA • TDD: (800) 735-2989 FESTIVAL Events

ART

THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2021 Betelhem Makonnen: Conversation and video art works, 2014-2020...... 2:00-3:30 pm

Art Collectors conversation with Rudolph “Rudy” Green...... available VOD

Visual Art Series: Life Through Art Episodes 1 & 2 and With His Hands: A Dick Hendricks Retrospective...... available VOD

MUSIC

THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2021 Original Music Video Contest (New in 2021) You Decide Who Wins! Available VOD...... 12:00 pm

SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 2021 Tatiana “LadyMay” Mayfield – A Concert for our Times VOD available after performance...... 8:00-9:30 pm

SPECIAL EVENTS

TUESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2021 Passholder Sneak Preview & Help Session...... 7:30 pm

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2021 Yoga with Anietie...... 11:00 am-12:00 pm

Opening Reception...... 7:00 pm

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021 Panavision presents: 5 Ingredients of an Image ...... 2:00-3:30 pm

Detroit Rising: How the Motor City Becomes a Restorative City Screening & Free Panel...... 7:00-9:00pm Discussion...... 7:45

Yoga with Anietie...... 7:00-9:00pm

AMP Creative presents: Producing Perspectives on Bias VR: Case Study & Panel Discussion ...... 7:30-8:30 pm:

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 After Hours: Take Back the Crown Episode 1 “The Process” Discussion and Q&A...... 9:15-10pm with Director Michael Grayson and Executive Director Tasha Edinbyrd

15 FESTIVAL Events

SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 2021 Yoga with Anietie...... 11:00am-12:00 pm

SUNDAY JANUARY 31, 2021 2021 DBFF Awards and Closing Celebration...... 4:00 pm

CONVERSATIONS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2021 A Conversation with Our Kin from Up North: Canadian Filmmakers Available VOD...... 8:00 pm

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021 A Conversation with Filmmakers: Creativity in Times of Upheaval Pt. 1 & 2 Available VOD...... 11:00 am

A Conversation with Filmmaker Lanie Zipoy & Screenwriter Chisa Hutchinson Available VOD...... 2:00 pm

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 A Conversation with Filmmakers Bobby Huntley & Colbie Fray Available VOD...... 2:00 pm

Film Screening: Shattered Dreams & A Dangerous Silence (Domestic Violence Stories) & a conversation with the Filmmakers Available VOD...... 3:00 pm

SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 2021 DBFF & EarthX Present: Conversations with Accidental Environmentalists Available VOD...... 1:00 pm

Housing and Social Justice: A Conversation & Films Available VOD...... 3:00 pm

Film Screenings & A Conversation with Gloria Allen (MAMA GLORIA) and Director Luchina Fisher, Available VOD...... 7:00 pm

SUNDAY, JANUARY 31, 2021 Film Screening: Women’s Mental Health Screening and A Conversation about Finding Our Rhythm & Joy, Available VOD...... 1:00 pm

16 FESTIVAL Events

POETRY / SPOKEN WORD / SCREEN DANCE

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021 No Boundaries: Dancing the Visions of Contemporary Black Choreographers Available VOD...... 1:00-2:00 pm

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 Being and Justice in Black Poetry: A BreakBeat Poetics Conversation Available VOD after screening...... 2:00-3:30 pm

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 Best of DBFF Spoken Word...... 9:00-10:30 pm

WORKSHOPS / PANELS / TECH TALKS / DISCUSSIONS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2021 DBFFI Creatives Speed-Dating/Networking Co-presented with the Texas Film Commission...... 6:00-7:30pm

THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2021 Finding the Story: Simplified Workflows with Transcript-Based Collaborative Editing...... 12:00 pm

The Art and Politics of Podcasting...... 4:00-5:00 pm

Podcasting 101...... 6:00-7:00 pm

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 Finding the Story: Simplified Workflows with Transcript-Based Collaborative Editing...... 12:00 pm

Put It On the Internet: Web-based Storytelling...... 6:00-7:00 pm

SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 2021 Virtual Resource Expo...... 1:00-3:00 pm

AR/VR Storytelling: An Immersive Future...... 3:00-4:00 pm Co-presented with the Texas Film Commission

Extractive Storytelling, Reimaging Representation...... 6:00-7:30 pm

SUNDAY, JANUARY 31, 2021 Costume Design w/ Whitney Kyles...... 12:00 pm

17 IS PROUD TO SUPPORT DENTON BLACK FILM FESTIVAL

FEATURING Butler Place FILMED IN FORT WORTH, TEXAS

Find your next location at FilmFortWorth.com HIGHLIGHT Anniversary Films

WE TELL OR STORIES

DBFF would like to celebrate anniversary films and a nod to past Black Filmmakers and the stories they told. In particular we highlighted Shaft (50 years) and Boyz n the Hood (30 years) for their impact to the industry and Black cinema.

Shaft 1971 motion picture directed by Gordon Parks and written by Ernest Tidyman and John D. F. Black. The Shaft soundtrack album, recorded by Issac Hayes, won a Grammy Award for Best original score written for a motion picture and a second Grammy that he shared with Johnny Allen for Best Instrumental Arrangement. The Theme from Shaft won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and has appeared on multiple Top 100 lists, including AFI’s 100 Years - 100 Songs. It was selected in 2000 for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”

Boyz n the Hood 1991 motion picture written and directed by John Singleton in his feature directorial debut. It stars Ice Cube, Cuba Gooding Jr., Morris Chestnut, Laurence Fishburne, Nia Long, Regina King, and Angela Bassett. The film’s title refers to the 1987 N.W.A. rap song of the same name, written by Ice Cube.

Boyz n the Hood was nominated for Best Director and Best Original Screenplay at the 64th Academy Awards, making Singleton the youngest person and the first African-American to be nominated for Best Director.

19 HIGHLIGHT Anniversary Films

Other 2021 Anniversaries

• A Raisin in the Sun (1961 Lorraine Hansberry -Writer) • Shaft (1971 Gordon Parks -Director) • Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song (1971 Melvin Van Peebles- Writer/Director) • Car Wash (1976 (Michael Schultz -Director) • She’s Gotta Have It (1986- Spike Lee -Writer/Director) • The Five Heartbeats (1991- Robert Townsend-Director) • Jungle Fever (1991- Spike Lee) • Daughters of the Dust (1991-Julie Dash) • Boyz N The Hood (1991- John Singleton) • New Jack City (1991-Mario Van Peebles-Director) • House Party 2 (1991- Doug McHenry & George Jackson) • The Five Heartbeats (Robert Townsend Director) • Set It Off (1996-F. Gary Gray- Director) • The Brothers (2001- Gary Hardwick (Writer/Director) • I Am Not Your Negro (2016 - Raoul Peck Director) • 13th (2016 – Ava DuVernay Director) • Moonlight (2016 – (Barry Jenkins Director) • Fences (2016 – (Denzel Washington Director) • Hidden Figures (2016 - (Theodore Melfi Director)

20 Local Support. World-Class Gear.

PANAVISION DALLAS (972) 929-8585 | [email protected] 8000 Jetstar Drive, Irving, TX 75063 FILM FACTS Did you know?

American film industry began not in California, but in New Jersey. The two most notable towns at the start in the 20th century were Bayonne and Fort Lee.

Oscar Micheaux was the First Black Filmmaker.

Maria P. Williams is known as the first black female film producer. It’s debated whether she directed Flames of Wrath, but she did write, distribute and act in the 1923 film.

The first drive-in theater was opened on June 6, 1933 by Richard Hollingshead in Camden, New Jersey.

Lincoln Motion Picture Company is considered the first all-black movie production company, showcasing African American talent in the film industry. FILM FACTS Did you know?

The Academy used to announce Oscar winners three months prior to the awards starting in 1929. Sealed envelopes started in 1941 after the LA Times announced the winners in the paper before the ceremony.

Hattie McDaniel was a trailblazing actress who became the first black performer to be nominated and win an Oscar. She won for her role in Gone With The Wind.

Gordon Parks, one of the greatest photographers, but also an African American filmmaker for directing The Learning Tree and Shaft

Roger Ross Williams became the first African American director to win an Oscar for his short documentary Music by Prudence in 1991.

In 1991, Julie Dash became the first black female filmmaker to have a full-length theatrical release in the US for her film Daughters of the Dust. BOLDLY GO

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twu.edu LINE-UP 2021 Denton Black Film Festival

A Blossom In the Night Short Narrative Runtime: 0:17:14 Country: USA Director: Tayo Amos In a future where low-income citizens are sold into slavery, Amara has to decide whether she should find her father or run for freedom with her brother.

A Dangerous Silence Documentary Feature Runtime: 0:57:37 Country: USA Director: Jacobe Love Rating: Adult Content Families, Friends and experts in the small town of Columbus, Georgia share testimonials about their battles lost and won, in their efforts against domestic violence and teenage dating violence. The state of Georgia has high rates of domestic abuse and dating violence. *In 2018, there were 45,715 crisis calls to Georgia’s certified domestic violence agencies.

A Galaxy Sits in the Cracks Short Documentary Runtime: 0:17:19 Country: USA Director: Amber Love “A Galaxy Sits in the Cracks” is a short experimental documentary exploring the ways Black communities in Chicago, Detroit, and Durham use Afrofuturism as a tool to inspire young people, organize politically and economically, and reimagine the spaces around them.

A Natural Choice Short Documentary Runtime: 0:16:37 Country: USA Director: Harrell D. Williams, Sr. Carleen, a proud, beautiful Black sister, is confronted by her boss about her hair style.

A Storybook Ending Short Narrative Runtime: 0:18:17 Country: USA Director: Lanre Olabisi Rating: Adult Content “A Storybook Ending” is a dark comedy about a Black man who accidentally kills an undercover White police officer in self-defense. The subsequent cover-up sets off a chain reaction of deceit, blackmail, and murder.

All the Smoke Short Narrative Runtime: 0:07:34 Country: USA Director: Karim Massaquoi Rating: Adult Content A struggling roadside diner finally gets the patrons they’ve desperately been waiting for.

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Amends Short Narrative Runtime: 0:10:25 Country: USA Director: Harold Jay Trotter Rating: Adult Content Two African-American men navigate loss, love and forgiveness during uncertain times.

An American Prophecy Documentary Feature Runtime: 1:15:00 Country:USA Director: Aaron Dworkin An award-winning film directed and produced by Black artist and social entrepreneur Aaron Dworkin. The docudrama features front-line health care workers of the COVID-19 pandemic as they explore the human condition through Khalil Gibran’s 1923 masterpiece, The Prophet. Our goal is to provide those who have been sacrificing on the battlefront with COVID-19 a unique opportunity to be heard artistically and share their experiences through their interpretation of text that was written almost a century ago.

Augustus Short Narrative Runtime: 0:17:38 Country: USA Director: Jon Alston Augustus, a literate, escaped slave masquerading as a free man in Massachusetts just prior to the Civil War, experiences nightmares of his son’s death and a future America that resembles the struggles of his own time. Augustus soon realizes the horrors of slavery and racial inequality will only continue if he remains complicit. He’s left with one choice; speak out or risk his freedom.

Auntie Invitational Short Narrative Runtime: 0:05:04 Country: USA Director: Colbie Fray What would happen if the original Aunt Viv returns to Bel Air to reclaim her home and family after her life got turned upside down.

Awry Short Narrative Runtime: 0:11:17 Country: USA Director: Garfield Boston A wife upon learning of her husband’s affair is determined to get him back.

Black Back Screendance Invitational Selection Runtime: 2:31 Country: USA Director: Kiyoko McCrae & Jason Foster “Black Back” is an filmed excerpt video for the production, Gomela/to return: Movement of Our Movement Tongue. Directed by Stephanie McKee and developed by dancers Kesha McKey, Kai Knight, Jeremy Guyton and poet Sunni Patterson, Gomela takes us

26 LINE-UP continued

on a journey through time and space. Making evident the connection between Africa, Haiti, and New Orleans, Gomela highlights the vibrant and percussive movements and stories that breathe life into ancient African dance and drumming and contemporary artistic expression, such as spoken word, hip-hop and jazz.

Black Girl - Bleu Short Documentary Runtime: 0:30:22 Country: USA Director: Sharee Silerio Rating: Adult Content A safe space where Black women reveal their struggles with mental health, including how the “Strong Black Woman” stereotype impacts their mental wellness and healing.

Black Stains Screendance Invitational Selection Runtime: 13:27 Country: USA Director: Tiffany Rhynard Why do we not see Black men as human? Inspired by the personal experiences of Trent D. Williams, Jr., an African-American choreographer, “Black Stains explores the reality of living while Black in the United States and addressed the systemic pattern of racial profiling by the police.

Black Seeds: The History of Africans in America Documentary Feature Runtime: 1:09:31 Country: USA Director: Bayer Mack “Black Seeds” digs into the socioeconomics, and tracks the evolution of armed resistance to slavery in America.

BLM Is Not A Trend College Short Runtime: 0:04:32 Country: USA Director: Donielle Conley, Malik Carey-Harpe Rating: Adult Content Aaron, a young African American male, gets ready for bed as he hears news coverage about the death of Breonna Taylor. As he sleeps, he drifts into a nightmarish state where his friends take place of those who have been victims of police brutality.

BLVD Short Narrative Runtime: 0:17:00 Country: USA Director: Kamen Casey On a school campus ruled by cancel culture, a young athlete fights to clear his name.

Born Brown Original Music Video Runtime: 0:04:06 Country: USA Director: Jamil Byrom Original Hip-Hop Music Video Produced by Jamil Byrom & Epik

27 LINE-UP continued

Brick By Brick Short Narrative Runtime: 0:16:53 Country: USA Director: Tina Chapman Da Costa Take the journey with Buddy, a 19-year-old brick mason and farmer, as he confronts numerous systemic obstacles in pursuit of rebuilding the relationship with the father he thought he knew. Based on a true story.

Brother Short Narrative Runtime: 0:15:00 Country: USA Director: Ya’Ke Rating: Adult Content After his older brother Casey returns home from a prison sentence, Caleb’s relationship with his best friend Jason is put to the test.

Brown With Blue Short Narrative Runtime: 0:20:00 Country: USA Director: Christian Nolan Jones Rating:Adult Content The relationship between a young man and woman slowly deteriorates as they struggle to come to grips with a past decision.

Building the Bridge Short Documentary Runtime: 0:40:58 Country: USA Director: Elroy “EJ” Johnson “Building the Bridge” documentary is an honest conversation with youth of color and educators of color about the lack of S.T.E.M. and S.T.E.A.M. exposure for youth of color in the Dallas neighborhood of Oak Cliff. The film dives into what community members and activists are doing to address this concern in a changing 21st-century world.

Butler Place: A Public Housing Era Closes Invitational Short Documentary Runtime: 10:36 Country: USA Producers: Dot Kent & Margaret Titsch Butler Place opened in 1940 to provide quality housing to Fort Worth residents in need. The community became a cherished home to more than 400 families. Over time, the public housing community was cut off from the rest of the city by highway construction, an island that separated its residents from jobs and opportunity. After 80 years, Butler Place public housing community closed for good in 2020. This short documentary celebrates the history of Butler Place and the modern policies that allow former residents to choose affordable homes across Fort Worth with better access to jobs and quality schools.

28 2021 UNT EQUITY & DIVERSITY CONFERENCE Facing the Future Together: Allies, Accomplices, & Action

Presented by: In partnership with:

A Virtual Event

We’re proud to support the 7th annual Denton Black Film Festival!

♦ Academic & corporate ♦ Breaks built into schedule workshop tracks ♦ FREE for UNT World students ♦ Access to all workshop & employees recordings with registratration ♦ Group discount available ♦ All day networking “room” ♦ Registration deadline: February 16, 2021

edc.unt.edu LINE-UP continued

Canada’s Unchecked Racism International Short Documentary Runtime: 0:06:12 Country: Canada Director: Zoe Davidson Growing up as a non-white Canadian, you experience racism every day. What makes Toronto’s racism so unique, is that you almost don’t notice it.

Can’t Kill Us All Screendance International Invitational Selection Runtime: 8:22 Country: Belgium Director: Botis Seva Ben Willams Unravelling one man’s mental unrest as he navigates the turbulence of dealing with two global pandemics.A theatrical experience combining Hip hop theatre and film from dance experimentalist Botis Seva, “Can’t Kill Us All” reveals the deterioration of one man’s emotional sanity and physical stability as he confronts life in lockdown. From reflecting on childhood memories to reliving Black trauma, “Can’t Kill Us All” pushes through the darkness to find light.

Catch A Girl Short Narrative Runtime: 0:14:45 Country: USA Director: LeRon Lee With his elementary understanding of courtship, 11-year-old Darius meets up with friends that conspire to play a popular predator vs. prey childhood game, targeted to take advantage of girls.

Catfish Texas High School Short Runtime: 0:05:00 Country: USA Director: Stanley Turner Lonely and depressed, Jacob feels like he’s completely alone in the world. However, this all changes when receives a mysterious text from a girl he’s never met.

Celeste’s Dreams Short Narrative Runtime: 0:18:25 Country: USA Director: Iona Morris When a creative young woman becomes the same age her mother was when she passed, her life stagnates, forcing her to reconcile a longstanding fear and opening up an opportunity for her to pursue their shared dream.

Chicago at the Crossroads nvitational Documentary Feature Runtime: 60 minutes Country: USA Director: Brian W. Schodorf Rating: Adult Content 15 years in the making ”Chicago at the Crossroad” tells the story of a city caught in the violent aftermath of a policy of mass displacement shaded by a long history of segregation. Much is said about the violence that plagues Chicago’s hyper-segregated

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communities. But what is known about the systems that created them, the laws that isolated them, and the policies that abandoned them? And how does a city heal from the decades of heartbreak and pain?

Chronicles of a Douche Bag Narrative Short Runtime: 0:28:16 Country: USA Director: Jason Ivey Rating: Adult Content- 18+ Adrian is an unapologetic narcissist who seeks help from a sheltered, inspired therapist in order to become the man he needs to be. After discovering he’s a new dad to a baby girl conceived thru a one night stand from his female gay friend, he’s determined to change as much as the therapist is challenged to see this thru. But who’s changing who?

Coded Bias Invitational Documentary Feature Runtime: 90 minutes Country: USA Director: Shalini Kantayya Modern society sits at the intersection of two crucial questions: What does it mean when artificial intelligence increasingly governs our liberties? And what are the consequences for the people AI is biased against? When MIT Media Lab researcher Joy Buolamwini discovers that most facial-recognition software does not accurately identify darker-skinned faces and the faces of women, she delves into an investigation of widespread bias in algorithms. As it turns out, artificial intelligence is not neutral, and women are leading the charge to ensure our civil rights are protected.

Cool Black North International Documentary Feature Runtime: 1:28:00 Country: Canada Director: Alison Duke “Cool Black North” explores the unique and vibrant Canadian Black Community and its role in our country’s contemporary identity. Through a series of intimate profiles we are witness to a wide spectrum of life experiences, including the arts, entertainment, law, business, science and social activism.

COVID Cats Narrative Short Runtime: 0:00:29 Country: USA Director: Michael Gibson Jr What else is there to do when you’re isolated during a pandemic besides make a cat video?

Cygnus Screendance Invitational Selection Runtime: 6:14 Country: USA Director: Cara Hagan; Robert Uehlin A short screendance filmed on location on Battle Lake, MN, “Cygnus” invites us to

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revel in the beauty of calm waters as the moon slips behind the horizon. A celebration of the earth, the body, and their kinship.

Dancing Through Harlem Screendance Invitational Selection Runtime: 6:08 Country: USA Director Derek Brockington Alexandra Hutchinson “Dancing Through Harlem” was created by Dance Theatre of Harlem’s Company Artists Alexandra Hutchinson and Derek Brockington for 2020 Harlem Week and the African- American Day Parade features choreography from DTH’s Resident Choreographer Robert Garland’s ballet “New Bach.”

Dear World Screendance Invitational Selection Runtime: 6:40 Country: USA Director: Kamali Hill “Dear World” is a virtual embodied narrative of Black Joy through the lens of Black women.

Death. Everything. Nothing. Short Documentary Runtime: 0:05:46 Country: USA Director: LeRhonda Manigault-Bryant Separated by distance, time, and a pandemic, a daughter wrestles with her mother’s impending death.

Detroit Rising: How the Motor City Becomes a Restorative City Invitational Episodic Documentary Director: Cassidy Friedman Country: USA Restorative practices pioneer Ted Wachtel, recruits Kerra Bolton, a disillusioned ex-pat writer to document Black-led, grassroots efforts in Detroit to restore relationships, repair harm, and build social capital through restorative practices.

Don’t Short Narrative Runtime: 0:06:17 Country: USA Director: Arielle Lathan, Carole Oligario Rating: Adult Content Cyril had an amazing date but what happens next? When she turns to her family and her dating coach, a high school senior, How does she make a decision when they give her conflicting advice?

Eavesdropping on the Elders Short Narrative Runtime: 0:18:00 Country: USA Director: Kiah Clingman, Robinson Vil A girl is unknowingly challenged with the task of bridging the gap between 2 generations. With a little help from her father, she’s forced into another world where she’s confronted with lessons from the past. 33 LINE-UP continued

Epiphany Short Narrative Runtime: 0:08:16 Country: USA Director: Nicole Hodges Persley “Epiphany” highlights the power of family. Kamaria is a young black girl, played by breakthrough talent Anaya Morrow, who believes in herself and her ability to discern right from wrong. When following her parent’s advice results in controversial outcomes for her at school, Kamaria is faced with a dilemma to either stand for what she believes or to follow what her teacher asks her to do. This heartwarming and thought-provoking short is also being developed into a series that is available for streaming platforms.

Eugima’s Village Episodic/Web Series Runtime: 0:29:58 Country: USA Director: JayTee Thompson Rating: Adult Content- 18+ Raised on the Eastside of South Central Los Angeles in the millennial era, awkward, aspiring actress and hot-dog stand employee Eugima Moore, (Jasmine Denise), catches the displeasure of her best friend Courtney (Ariel Simone) and her village of supporters due to her relentless pursuit in becoming an actress. She has a series of conflicted dreams where her acting is great however in reality she sucks. To achieve her goals, Eugima must ignore her family of “supporters’’ and believe in herself.

Falling Short Narrative Runtime: 0:15:35 Country: USA Director: Calvin J Walker Vincent, a college freshman, finds himself in a dangerous situation when he becomes involved with the secret pledging of an on-campus fraternity.

Finding Elijah Short Documentary Runtime: 0:24:58 Country: USA Director: Yolonda Johnson-Young Told from a mother’s perspective, Finding Elijah follows a young man’s journey from home; into mental illness, to homelessness, and ultimately to suicide. It explores how a search for answers leads a mother to action.

For Us, By Us Screendance Invitational Selection Runtime: 7:57 Country: USA Director: Lauren Hyuhn Three artists of color come together to realize how art offers them opportunities to place their stories to the forefront, despite the spaces and structures created to oppress them. Art is a survival tactic—it is the freedom of thought and language. Art remembers. It moves. It offers. It bridges. It heals. In this film, Choreographer Lauren Huynh asks that you lean in and listen closely to the stories told by these artists of color. Our voices matter. We are strong, generous, and valuable. While these spaces were not historically made for us, our art is what belongs to us. This screendance was created “For Us, By Us”. 34 LINE-UP continued

Free International Short Narrative Runtime: 0:02:35 Country: Finland Director: JP Snell A woman’s quest to declutter her life comes with surprising results.

Free To Be Short Documentary Runtime: 0:13:00 Country: USA Director: Ugenia Stokes Rating: Adult Content Through the eyes of four individuals that identify within the LGBTQIA+ community, we see their push for social justice and racial equality, advocating for all Black lives matter while also showcasing the cultural impact the Black LGBTQIA+community has brought to the mainstream media but underhandedly has been forgotten.

Funeral of a Nation: A Musical Essay Short Documentary Runtime: 0:31:00 Country: USA Director: Keith Nixon Jr In memory of who we were, a tribute to who we will be. In honor of those before us, a call to those after us. You are because of who was, where past meets present, a future is born. “Funeral of a Nation” will ensure the Birth of Another.

Game Night Short Narrative Runtime: 0:04:34 Country: USA Director: Alicia Redmond Four couples get together for game night and the real charade gets exposed.

Genesis: An animated short about creation Short Narrative Runtime: 0:04:59 Country: USA Director: Philip Page “Genesis” is an animated short film about being creative and loving what you create! Inspired by the book of Genesis.

Happily Married After Short Narrative Runtime: 0:10:00 Country: USA Director: Alison Guessou When sharing her tips for a happy marriage, a young wife must come to realize that marriages are never perfect, or else she stands the risk of losing it all.

House Blend College Short Runtime: 0:11:11 Country: USA Director: Alexis Stackhouse Summer, a spiritual healer, experiences bizarre happenings after receiving a gifted bottle of wine.

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How to Cash in Your Life Insurance in 30 Days Short Narrative Runtime: 0:11:18 Country: USA Director: Regine Mont-Louis, Kate Moran Rating: Adult Content A wannabe comedienne fed up with her nagging family, dead end job, and zero romantic interest decides to end it all, but can she muster up the courage?

I Don’t Know Original Music Video Runtime: 0:05:18 Country: USA Director: Carl Bailey This video is an attempt to educate other cultures on the plight of the Black People in America.It is also an honest expression of the everyday emotional struggle of being born Black in America and anywhere Black people are not honored, respected and denied their basic human rights.

I Hate This F’kn Job Short Narrative Runtime: 0:17:30 Country: USA Director: Monique Lola Berkley Young, driven and professional, Naima Ali is the only woman of color in her office. On the surface seemingly no issues but once peeled back the pages of her employer, Winning Magazine, we get to see why Naima feels the way she does. Naima’s coworkers might not deal with issues the way she does, however, we question are they as happy with their jobs as portrayed.

Ike & Judy College Short Runtime: 0:14:13 Country: USA Director: Sarah Christine A recently widowed grandfather has his granddaughter over for the weekend. She wants to bake grandma’s chocolate souffle, but he is not experienced in the kitchen. Their relationship develops through the ups and downs of the souffle-creation process.

I’m Just a Layman in Pursuit of Justice: Black Farmers Fight Against USDA (2020) Documentary Feature Runtime: 0:59:44 Country: USA Director: Shoun A. Hill, Waymon Hinson “I’m Just a Layman in Pursuit of Justice”, chronicles the injustices of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, also known as the last plantation, and the lived experiences of Black farmers who chose to fight against discrimination.

I’m Trying College Short Runtime: 0:08:53 Country: USA Director: Destiny Francois Art has always been an escape for African American teen, Nate. So when an opportunity arises for him to potentially be admitted into an art institute on a full scholarship, he 36

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sees this as his only option for a better life. He discovers, however, that his art book has been stolen by his own aunt. In order to get it back, he must overcome his abusive past. Will he make it in time to his interview or will his fantasies of a better life only be a sketch in his imagination?

I’m With Harrison Invitational Short Documentary Runtime: 0:04:30 Country: USA Director: John Fiege In 2019, after a 41-year history of the Houston Pride Parade, Harrison Guy became the first Black gay man to be the Grand Marshal of the parade. “I’m With Harrison” tells the story of how Harrison became a central figure in Houston’s LGBTQ+ community and how he has brought to his leadership role the distinctive community-building skills he learned growing up in a small Black community outside of Houston.

Indifferent Enchantment Narrative Feature Runtime: 1:46:00 Country: USA Director: Samina Najmah Rating: Adult Content Luke, an operations supervisor, received little recognition at work and abruptly quits. Two years separated from his wife, and now unemployed, he reluctantly goes out-on- the-town to kick-it before moving to Dallas for more work opportunities. Sanaade’, a single mother and therapist living in Houston, has time only for her son and clients. As she strives to open a private practice, no thought of a relationship has room to engage her mind or captivate her heart.

It Doesn’t Matter Short Documentary Runtime: 0:02:02 Country: USA Director: Zack Browne It doesn’t matter who you are, what you do, where you’re from or how good of a person you are or try to best as a Black person in America, you’re always a target.

Jonah Screendance Invitational Selection Runtime: 0:05:23 Country: USA Director: Andrew Michael Ellis “Jonah” - an interview with a former African American slave accompanies a powerful dance vignette of an urban man in extremis. The juxtaposition of past and present raises questions about inherited trauma and the possibility of regeneration.

Landry International Short Documentary Runtime: 0:15:00 Country: Denmark Director: Meeto Worre Kronborg Grevsen Boxer Landry Kore moved from the Ivory Coast to Denmark when he was a child in hopes of a better life. But what happens when you move to a culture that is so different from your own at such a pivotal stage in life? Landry talks about the challenges he faced 38 LINE-UP continued

when he was suddenly on his own, far away from family and friends and familiarity, in a place that felt completely foreign to him.

Leave Us Here College Short Runtime: 0:05:34 Country: USA Director: Tari Wariebi Janine and Lula are having a routine granddaughter and grandmother day out when a stop at a local gas station does not go as planned.

Legitimately Mallie! Short Narrative Runtime: 0:25:59 Country: USA Director: Mahalia Jackson-Butler Mallie’s the girl next door, the cute kid, the leader of the bunch and the one who always seems to scope out shenanigans that land her and her two best friends- Earnie and Sophie in the hot seat. She’s the Know-it-All who doesn’t quite Know-it-All, but she is always well meaning. Family friendly comedy.

Life Through Art Series: Episode 1: Folk Art -Ezekiel Gibbs Invitational Short Art Documentary Language: English Country: USA Director: Linda Gibbs This first installment of “Life Through Art” came together through the familial ties of our founder, Linda Gibbs. After 20 years of research, the pieces fit together to show a cautionary tale for families everywhere. In this first series, we define Folk Art, an especially unique art form heralded by the African-American community. It also chronicles the rise of African-American Folk Artist, Ezekiel Gibbs, who began his career at age 86. Gibbs, at the time, was the oldest working artist in Texas and quickly gained popularity in his community and beyond.

Life Through Art Series: Episode 2: Art Installation - Annette Lawrence Invitational Short Art Documentary Language: English Country: USA Director: Linda Gibbs The second installment of “Life Through Art” defines Installation Art and features Annette Lawrence: an African-American installation artist with a special interest in the passage of time and an environmentally conscious workflow that makes the most of her “ordinary” material. From recycled string to brown paper to junk mail, Annette wastes nothing from everyday life. Her large-scale temporary installations made of postal string, brown paper, and packing tape have been featured at the Glassell School of Art, the Museum of Fine Arts: Houston, and the Dallas Museum of Art, among others. Originally from New York, Lawrence lives and works in Denton, Texas. She taught at the University of North Texas for 24 years.

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Love Is Patient - Love Is Kind Short Narrative Runtime: 0:05:59 Country: USA Director: Kyle Sammy “Love Is Patient, Love Is Kind” is a short silent film based on the perspectives of love. It stems from the Bible verse, 1 Corinthians 13:4.

Lovebites Short Narrative Runtime: 0:13:26 Country: USA Director: Chinwe Okorie As the reality of their relationship changes, Cat struggles to reconcile with the thought of her relationship with her boyfriend Chidi coming to an end. Despite growing evidence that presents itself, Cat fights to keep the doomed relationship going. Who will be brave enough to end this bad romance?

Lovena International Short Narrative Runtime: 0:28:50 Country: French Guiana Director: Olivier SAGNE Lovena becomes French Guiana’s chess champion. An opportunity and a burden for an illegal Haitian immigrant teenager.

Lucy Short Narrative Runtime: 0:13:17 Country: USA Director: Foley Ellis Ibidapo “Lucy” is a coming of age story about an exceptional deaf girl who struggles with self-love while coming to grips with her own special powers. Note: The film is heavy in sound design, as it helps move the story. We recommend viewing it with quality headphones or stereo speakers with excellent bass.

Making Men Screendance Invitational Selection Runtime: 0:13:00 Country: Belgium Director: Harold George & Antoine Panier “Making Men” examines the question of masculinity. This dance film zooms in on 4 individuals in the process of becoming men. As is expected, they proceed unquestioningly into manhood through various stages of their lives, adopting the clearly coded characteristics allowed by society. However, a feeling of unease, in the very depths of their being, oppresses them. They feel uncertainty but also something else, harder to define. Shot in the breathtaking landscape of Zimbabwe, the film features strong and rhythmical choreography but also a special camera work that intensifies emotions inspired by the movement.

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Mama Gloria Invitational Documentary Feature Runtime: 0:76:00 Country: USA Director: Luchina Fisher Rating: Adult Content “Mama Gloria” is an intimate profile of Gloria Allen, a trailblazing 75-year-old Black transgender activist who started a charm school for homeless trans youth and is now aging with joy and grace. It is the story of a mother’s love -- the love that Gloria’s mother had for her and the love that Gloria has for her chosen children. And it is driven by the love that filmmaker Luchina Fisher has for her 17-year-old Black transgender daughter, Gia.

Man Short Narrative Runtime: 0:14:27 Country: USA Director: Ron Clemons Rating: Adult Content When a book smart teen loses his parents, he becomes a street hustler to provide for his one year old brother while eluding the biggest marijuana dealer in the city.

Marny’s Gift Short Narrative Runtime: 0:16:07 Country: USA Director: Sean Martinez Raised in the segregated South by a working-class family, Marny is a young girl with a special gift. Her brother is off fighting in World War 2, while her mother doesn’t understand her special abilities. Marny and her older sister Fern find comfort in the home of their mother’s employer Mrs. Beulah, who has developed a genuine affection for them. Marny is soon challenged to use her gift to discover a dark secret that could change the course of their lives forever.

Mickey Hardaway Short Narrative Runtime: 0:19:00 Country: USA Director: Marcellus Cox A Young Sketch Artist visits a well renowned psychiatrist as his life begins sprawling out of control after years of Physical and Verbal Abuse has taken a toll on him.

Misfits College Short Runtime: 0:18:12 Country: USA Director: Ciani Rey Walker When they learn their friend has kidnapped a cop on the night of MLK Jr.’s assassination, two sisters and leaders of the Black Panther Party must set aside their differences to navigate one of the most turbulent nights in history.

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Money Can’t Buy a Community Texas High School Short Runtime: 0:04:45 Country: USA Director: Sarah Houston, Illyana Bocanegra As a child, I spent my summers in East Austin; a historical African-American neighborhood filled with family-owned stores, business, and shops. In the summer of 2019, I to attend a film camp at the Austin Film School located in East Austin. As my mom and I drove down MLK Blvd my jaw dropped; there were white women casually strolling down the sidewalks with yoga mats and strollers! On every corner were coffee shops and yoga studios. These new sights allowed me to formulate exactly what I wanted to portray in my documentary.

Monica: An Afro Fantasy Original Music Video Runtime: 0:04:58 Country: USA Director: Keirra Ewah , Ore Aweda A young Nigerian (Favour) navigates his new found life abroad by spending time with his pidgin-speaking, well-assimilated, friends. What once served as a bonding experience over a game of FIFA, has birthed new found opportunities to get acquainted with Monica, the step-sister of Favour’s friend, and the young Akata (African American) woman he fancies so dearly.

Mr. & Mrs. Ellis Short Narrative Runtime: 0:19:25 Country: USA Director: Alan M. Brooks Rating: Adult Content It’s the big wedding day for Xavior Ellis; but a dark secret from his past has found its way to his special day. On what’s supposed to be the happiest day of his life, Xavior is faced with the reality of the scars from his past. Will he make it to the altar? Or will the secret reveal more skeletons?

Mr. Emancipation: The Walter Perry Story International Documentary Feature Runtime: 1:00:08 Country: Canada Director: Preston Chase “Mr. Emancipation” is the story of Walter L Perry’s determination to put on a celebration that would transcend divisions of race and class. He staged an Emancipation Day festival that was where everyone wanted to be. Eleanor Roosevelt, Martin Luther King Jr, Jesse Owens all headed there because, as civil rights activist Dick Gregory said “The largest Juneteenth celebration was not in America, it was in Windsor, Canada. A celebration of ending slavery sounds grim.

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No Boundaries: Dancing the Legacies of Black Choreographers Screendance Invitational Selection Runtime: 0:12:51 Country: Country: USA Director: Gesel Mason “No Boundaries: Dancing the Visions of Contemporary Black Choreographers” is a living, breathing history project that has evolved to become a multifaceted platform in order to meet the growing need of an archive of prominent African American choreographers. The project uses dance as the vehicle to understand a distinctly African American theme of resilience in spite of a history of silencing, erasure, and appropriation of African American cultural contributions. By expanding the genre of Black dance and interrupting the systematic erasure of names lost to the archive, “No Boundaries” reveals the tenacity of resilience and the diversity of Black contemporary performance.

Not Just A Game - The Story of Savage Short Documentary Runtime: 0:14:58 Country: USA Director: Myles Banks Check out a documentary about an East Baltimore ice hockey team and how it’s changing the lives of Baltimore youth. The Peale and producers at Just Stunt Productions are debuting this mini-documentary, following one of the players through his first season and his growth on and off the ice. For the Baltimore Banners team and its players, hockey is #NotJustAGame.

On My Radio Episodic/Web Series Runtime: 0:14:00 Country: USA Director: Jade Angela Moore Rating: Adult Content- 18+ “On My Radio” follows four late night radio personalities - Keith, Rochelle, Cordell, and Jay. as they embark on their journey of becoming iconic radio personalities, personal decisions tend to make their way into the business..

On the Front Line: The Rangers of Gorongosa National Park International Documentary Feature Runtime: 1:12:36 Country: Mozambique Director: James Byrne , Carla Rebai In Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique, a brave team of Rangers is on the front lines, protecting this beautiful wilderness from a range of threats like bushmeat hunting and illegal logging.

OPUSXTRAVELXART Exhibition, 3rd Show Episodic/Web Series Runtime: 0:23:01 Country: USA Director: Maurice Porcher The Mos visits Douglass Commonwealth to discover why Singer/Songwriter Allison Balanc has such a well-balanced approach to creating her soulful music. 44 WE’VE RAISED THE CEILING ON BEST IN CLASS

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Ours to Tell Short Documentary Runtime: 0:17:15 Country: USA Director: Rayka Zehtabchi Rating: Adult Content Without shame and without fear “Ours to Tell” depicts four people who share their stories and walk in their truth. By owning the lives they choose, what unfolds is an unfiltered and poetic demonstration of how the right to access abortion acts asa dynamic turning point in an individual’s journey to freedom and self love. Each with different perspectives and experiences, the film’s subjects “Brittany, Hannah, Nick and Ylonda” take us inside their worlds, their families, their souls and boldly illustrate the beauty and power of bodily autonomy.

Part Time Short Narrative Runtime: 0:15:30 Country: USA Director: Malik Beck Rating: Adult Content Recently graduated from college, Maurice White wants to make an impact on the education system. Maurice is met with three students in the behavioral disorder class. To make things even crazier, Maurice soon finds out the faculty he works with are just as odd as the students.

Peaking Original Music Video Runtime: 0:04:36 Country: USA Director: US This is the story of art as catharsis, inspired by the Wilma Theater’s production of “Kill Move Paradise” and featuring 3 of its actors, including the lead emcee US, alongside ILL DOOTS. This is the story of a group of people finding Funk as a means to look inward and change, shake that thang and find your foundation, baby. This is about the spirits that lead us and all that is holy within us. This tale is so clandestine that half of the video was shot before the song was even conceived.

Pink Opaque Invitational Narrative Feature Runtime: 1:30:00 Country: USA Director: Derrick Perry/ Additional Story & Produced by Dave Ragsdale Los Angeles film student struggles to graduate while navigating a budding romance against his girlfriend’s older brother’s wishes and reconnecting with his estranged uncle leading to an unfamiliar look at his family history and renewed uncertainty of his future.

Precursor Short Narrative Runtime: 0:08:43 Country: USA Director: Manolo Campos What if we talked? What if we listened? “Precursor” is a film that confronts the uncomfortable conversations in relation to prejudice, power, and patriotism. It offers a vision of what could be if two individuals with opposing viewpoints decided to listen.

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Puppy Love College Short Runtime: 0:17:54 Country: USA Director: Darren Heard Beetle, the typical around the way kid, has a huge crush on his favorite R&B singer “Crystal”. While listening to the radio, the DJ announces a contest that will get him up, close and personal with the singer but the only way to win the tickets is to call in. The problem is, his phone does not work. Beetle has to figure out a way to get to the love of his life in this coming of age drama about what is was like when you first experienced love.

Rebel Original Music Video Runtime: 0:05:03 Country: USA Screenwriter: Verb Kulture Focuses on the injustices in America and Police Brutality that has caused many uprisings and protests, shows people speaking out for justice and reflects the lyrics to the original song Rebel by Verb Kulture.

Rejoice Resist International Short Narrative Runtime: 0:05:13 Country:UK Director: Elisha Smith-Leverock “Rejoice Resist” is a film that celebrates and shows Black Joy and Black pleasure as the ultimate form of resistance. It highlights the importance of allowing yourself to feel joy especially in the face of adversity.

Remember Tomorrow Short Narrative Runtime: 0:21:27 Country:USA Director: Hozael Morgan After a mid-season concussion, a prized running back convinces his agent to negotiate his rookie contract while hiding his injury to continue playing no matter the cost.

Revolution from Afar Documentary Feature Runtime: 1:07:00 Country: USA, with International Elements Director: Bentley Brown In 2019, after months of protests across Sudan, the military removed thirty-year dictator Omar al-Bashir and cracked down in a violent fashion on the civilian sit-in outside its headquarters. The Internet was shut down, leaving those outside Sudan to voice a plea for peaceful transition to civilian government. An ocean away, Sudanese-American poets and musicians, whose families left Sudan for America in decades past, gather in major American cities to perform in support of the revolution.

47 CELEBRATES THE 7TH YEAR OF THE CELEBRATES THE 7TH YEAR OF THE CELEBRATESDENTON BLACK THE 7TH FILM YEAR FESTIVAL OF THE DENTON BLACK FILM FESTIVAL DENTON BLACK FILM FESTIVAL CREATORS CREATORS Partner with us on your next Partnerpersonal with or usindie on yourproject. next Partnerpersonal with or us indie on yourproject. next Applypersonal to receive or indie production project. timeApply in toour receive studios production at no cost. timeApply in toour receive studios production at no cost. timestudiosatamp.com/dbff21 in our studios at no cost. studiosatamp.com/dbff21 studiosatamp.com/dbff21

studiosatamp.com @studiosatamp (214)studiosatamp.com 660-4444 10763 Sanden Dr,@studiosatamp Dallas, TX 75238 studiosatamp.com @studiosatamp (214) 660-4444 10763 Sanden Dr, Dallas, TX 75238 (214) 660-4444 10763 Sanden Dr, Dallas, TX 75238 LINE-UP continued

Run Little Boy College Short Runtime: 0:04:31 Country: USA Director: Dominick A.D. Bedasse When Little Boy attempts to escape an ominous force chasing after him, he becomes trapped within a nightmarish world. The deeper he travels into this realm, the more he CELEBRATES THE 7TH YEAR OF THE learns how it is systematically designed to destroy him. Running up against cruel and CELEBRATES THE 7TH YEAR OF THE callous opponents, Little Boy must quickly develop the courage needed to survive. But DENTON BLACK FILM FESTIVAL can he really live in a world where the rules never work out in his favor? DENTON BLACK FILM FESTIVAL Satan’s Tears Original Music Video Runtime: 0:04:48 Country: USA Director: Andrew Lush CREATORS Kyler O’Neal’s debut music video is a sensuous dance film that explores queer CREATORS friendship and queer healing. Sawubona Short Documentary Runtime: 0:14:13 Country: USA Partner with us on your next Director: Tyler Dunham, Brendan Calder Partnerpersonal with or us indie on yourproject. next At the age of 12, Giovanni Douresseau’s life consisted of the eight blocks of guns, personal or indie project. gangs and violence surrounding his home in South Central Los Angeles. After being Apply to receive production exposed to surfing during a youth summer program, he fell in love with the sport and timeApply in toour receive studios production at no cost. met a mentor who helped him completely move past his rough upbringing. Ten years time in our studios at no cost. later, Giovanni is committed to sharing the life-altering gift of surfing that was given to him when he needed it most. studiosatamp.com/dbff21 studiosatamp.com/dbff21 Shattered Pieces Narrative Feature Runtime: 0:55:11 Country: USA Director: KerryAnn Zamore Frazier, Chris Sanders Rating: Adult Content Based on real events and taken from excerpts from her book Restored by Kerry Ann Frazier. The couple appear to have it all, but there is dark secret Karen struggles to control, because if it ever gets out it will leave each person connected.

She Had To Ask Short Narrative Runtime: 0:18:38 Country: USA Director: Tailiah Breon A romantic comedy about a strong-willed woman who realizes love has no boundaries as she decides to break norms, take the wheel, and drive her relationship to a newer high before it’s seemingly too late. Now the question is, is she taking the wheel purely out of love - or is it out of desperation? Either way, “She Had To Ask.”

studiosatamp.com @studiosatamp 49 studiosatamp.com @studiosatamp (214) 660-4444 10763 Sanden Dr, Dallas, TX 75238 (214) 660-4444 10763 Sanden Dr, Dallas, TX 75238 LINE-UP continued

Shipwreck Short Narrative Runtime: 0:09:54 Country: USA Director: Lisa Cole “Shipwreck” is a short narrative portrayal of a young girl coping with grief, loss and her sense of identity.

Shoulders Deep Invitational Short Documentary Runtime: 0:08:00 Country: USA Director: John Fiege/ Artistic Director- Walter Hull Aniya Wingate is a radiant and talented African American dancer in high school in Houston, who was displaced from her home for half a year by Hurricane Harvey. “Shoulders Deep” translates her experience of displacement through dance, poetry, and performance. Aniya’s fear, despair, and alienation give way to the salvation, comfort, and love of family and village, where she finds the support to transform trauma into artistic expression. The film is about the existential threat to our home in the era of climate chaos and the regenerative power of coming back home after disaster strikes. Love is central to Aniya’s journey of recovery, and her movement becomes the physical expression of that love.

Silent Partner Short Narrative Runtime: 0:10:00 Country: USA Director: Issa Currie Hank’s Family is missing and he’s not talking. Two detectives are hot on the case but have nothing to go with. Can they solve the case before it goes cold?

Smith Narrative Feature Runtime: 1:56:51 Country: USA Director: Jaron Lockridge Rating: Adult Content Underwhelmed by corporate assignments, a private detective is approached by an out of town client with the type of investigation he’s longed for.

Socially Distanced Comedy Presents: Special Delivery & Community Episodic/Web Series Runtime: 0:05:54 Country: USA Director: Michael Gibson Jr During the pandemic, several comedians came together to try and take control in an uncertain world. Babies don’t wait for the perfect time to be born. Especially, during a global pandemic. Also, learn what happens when the boys decide to sneak into a Dallas venue to perform during lock-down.

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Stay Home Short Narrative Runtime: 0:11:00 Country: USA Director: Lester Rowe “Stay Home,” directed by LD Rowe and aRowe Films is his debut narrative short. “Stay Home” is one man’s 14-day struggle in isolation as he copes with the torture of a rapidly spreading pandemic.

Streetlights College Short Runtime: 0:12:21 Country: USA Director: Jonathan Kemp Ollie has just moved to Raven Heights. It’s a seemingly ordinary neighborhood, except for two young African American boys, Franklin and Nigel. They decide to take Ollie under their wing and quickly have to teach him the number one rule of the neighborhood. Be home before the streetlights come on... or face supernatural consequences.

Take Back the Crown Exclusive Screening- Episodic Invitational Selection Runtime: 0:61:00 Country: USA Director: Michael Grayson In the docuseries “Take Back The Crown”, we explore the new Natural Hair movement as told by the leading brands, stylists, social media influencers, celebrities, business leaders and consumers in the natural hair space.

Target: Philadelphia Documentary Feature Runtime: 1:00:00 Country: USA Director: Sean Slater Rating: Adult Content In 1985 Philadelphia police dropped a military-grade explosive device on a residential building, killing 11 people, including 5 children. The attack was intended to end a standoff with the Black militant group known as MOVE, yet it succeeded only in setting a new standard for institutionalized violence and the dehumanization of Black bodies. “Target: Philadephia” explores how the development of Black nationalism coincided with the rise of modern police militarization, creating the systemic disenfranchisement that incubates movements like Black Lives Matter.

Texas Red Narrative Feature Runtime: 1:23:45 Country: USA Director: Travis Mills Rating: Adult Content Inspired by a true story, an African-American man named Texas Red (played by Grammy- nominated blues singer Cedric Burnside) is hunted by hundreds of men through the Winter wilderness of Mississippi in 1940.

51 LINE-UP continued

The 5th Room Short Narrative Runtime: 0:20:00 Country: USA Director: Candace Patrick A tragic accident led a woman to isolate herself inside her home for several years. She has built a community inside her home, but when a young child is in danger just outside her front door, she is forced to decide if she will break free or stay locked inside forever.

The Accidental Environmentalist Invitational Short Documentary Runtime: 0:10:05 Country: USA Director: Ellen Esling A mosquito bite decades ago leads Catherine Coleman Flowers on her life’s journey. The second in the Southern Exposure series, this captivating film brings viewers into the world of Catherine Coleman Flowers, a Lowndes County, Alabama activist who became passionate about the environment when she found out that tropical diseases, like hookworm, were showing up in her community because of sewage treatment problems. Her journey to solve problems at the intersection of poverty, climate change, and politics has taken her from the Alabama Black Belt to Washington, D.C. to Switzerland and back. She shares her special connection to place and invites you in to a day in her life.

The Black Baptism Short Narrative Runtime: 0:20:00 Country: USA Director: Stephanie Diane Ford Rating: Adult Content Informed by a mysterious voice, an imprisoned young woman must pass a series of enigmatic tests or face a violent death as the terrifying situation unlocks a dormant power in this story of courage and redemption.

The Black Experience in America: Past/Present/Future Episodic/Web Series Runtime: 0:23:21 Country: USA Director: Ivory Leonard IV, Diante Thomas An historical dance film about reconditioning the subconscious mind.

The Council Narrative Feature Runtime: 1:54:02 Country: USA Director: JayTee Thompson Rating: Adult Content- 18+ In an era of crime, drugs and violence, the streets of South Central Los Angeles walk in fear as the gangs, police and criminals take over. Four heroic men take matters into their own hands and bring a nightmare on the streets that they can’t wake up from. No justice, no peace and if peace is far out of reach, so will the idea of being a law abiding citizen. The criminals leaned in the ear of the city and said a storm is coming, The Council leaned back and whispered...”We Are The Storm!” 52 YOUR NEWS, YOUR WAY

THURSDAY LOW HIGH 276-unit affordable apartment complex approved / Local news, 2A 70 85 IN DENTON UNT’s breakout Police: Woman 40% chance of ground game planned to drug thunderstorms Weather, 2A may signal shift and rob man Sports, 6A Blotter, 2A

Thursday, September 17, 2020 || Denton, Texas || Vol. 117, No. 46 || DentonRC.com 10 pages, 1 section || $1.50 Armintor, Baria face off on doing business in Denton By Paul Bryant synthesis in arts and businesses in this cause it has come to me from the peo- Staff Writer town.” ple. I will fight for you. I believe in fair- [email protected] A professor at the University of ness and equity for individuals, families Denton City Council Place 5 at-large North Texas, Armintor is the Place 5 in- and small businesses.” candidates Rick Baria and Deb Ar- cumbent. Elected in 2018, she’s in her Baria questioned some of Armintor’s mintor shared their ideas for a better first term. votes as a council member. city during an online forum Wednes- “There’s a misconception about me “I’m a pretty practical man,” he said. day. that I am anti-business and that I have “Most people who know me think I’m a “I think we are strongest in our peo- my own agenda,” she said. “I wait for reasonable individual. I don’t think the Screenshot ple,” Armintor said. “We’ve got so much agendas to come to me. When I am Glen Farris, top left, hosts a forum between Denton City Council Place 5 creativity here. We have wonderful pushing something forward, it is be- See FORUM on 5A candidate Rick Baria, top right, and incumbent Deb Armintor, low. Postponed 9-day event set for a smaller, safer fall Affidavit: Admission of guilt in chat app Tarrant deputy facing murder charge wiped phone before handing it over, Denton police say By Zaira Perez Staff Writer [email protected] A Tarrant County sheriff’s deputy allegedly hid messages relating to the shooting death of his girlfriend, 46-year- old Leslie Hartman of Denton, and admitted to shooting someone in a group-chat mes- sage, according to po- lice records. The deputy, 36-year-old Jay Al- len Rotter, called 911 Jay Allen around 11:34 p.m. Rotter Aug. 26 to report his girlfriend had just shot herself with his gun, the probable cause affidavit states. Al Key/DRC During the call, the affidavit states, he The Zero Gravity ride spins a kaleidoscope of colors on the Midway during opening night of last year’s North Texas Fair and Rodeo. The was sobbing and yelling at times but 2020 fair will take place next month — with attendance limited to 50% of normal capacity. stopped crying when asked questions. Rotter allegedly told Denton police that Hartman shot herself while they were hugging. Hartman was found dead at the scene next to her wheelchair with a gunshot wound to the side of her head, the affidavit says. The two were the only ones living at the home in the 2400 block of Robinwood Lane. Fair will roll on A search of Hartman’s phone didn’t By Lucinda Breeding The local fair and rodeo will said officials will halve attendance the fairgrounds. uncover messages suggesting she was Features Editor open Oct. 16 and run through Oct. so that attendees can practice social “People can bring their lawn feeling suicidal or depressed. Detectives [email protected] 24. The popular annual North Texas distancing. chairs and set up on the grass and found messages suggesting Rotter was The North Texas Fair Associa- Fair and Rodeo Parade will take to “In the rodeo arena, the [seating see the events. Same thing with the in a “mood” and that he would need to tion will cut crowds in half — but the the streets at 10 a.m. Oct. 17. capacity] is 4,000,” Carlton said. “So concerts,” Carlton said. sort himself out because he was having bulls and broncos will still buck, and “Basically, whatever local we’re going to keep everything to During the concerts, fair staff will trouble with drugs, the affidavit says.

DENTONRC.COM E-EDITION PICK AND CHOOSE THE MOST EXACT REPLICA OF THE PRINTED IMPORTANT STORIES IN OUR PAPER, AVAILABLE 7 DAYS A WEEK HOMETOWN.

ACTIVATE YOUR DIGITAL ALL ACCESS SUBSCRIPTION AT: DENTONRC.COM/ALLACCESS SIGN UP FOR ALL ACCESS FOR AS LOW AS $1.99 PER WEEK! LINE-UP continued

The Favor International Short Narrative Runtime: 0:14:24 Country: France Director: HENRY Bruno Christelle works with Pascal. They appreciate each other, are courteous to each other and are inclined to render each other mutually. But Christelle becomes strange, absent and bothered. One Sunday while Pascal is at home with his family, Christelle calls him and asks him to come because she has a problem. Worried, Pascal immediately goes home. There, she asks him to make him a child. Pascal, a good family man, is shocked and tries to bring her back to reason but the more he opposes, the more Christelle tries to convince and charm him.

The First Time After Short Narrative Runtime: 0:14:20 Country: USA Director: Calvin J Walker Rating: Adult Content Macy prepares herself to be intimate with her husband for the first time since he’s admitted to being unfaithful.

The Fregoli Project College Short Runtime: 0:10:32 Country: USA Director: Samuel Broadous The debut short of Sam Broadous, “The Fregoli Project” is a short comedy that comments the white savior complex through the story of Danny as he tries to complete a construction project with an all Black team, but fails to distinguish anyone apart.

The McHenry Trial: Don’t Judge a Kid by Their Hoodie Short Narrative Runtime: 0:29:59 Country: USA Director: Ken Sagoes A young and brilliant academic phenom who not only passes the bar exam at age 14 but finds himself defending his homeless father on a murder charge when few believe he is innocent. He faces a shrewd law firm, an old school segregationist judge, and an arrogant prosecutor who is preparing to celebrate his 50th consecutive case win.

The Monster In My Closet Short Narrative Runtime: 0:25:19 Country: USA Director: Malcolm X. Johnson Rating: Adult Content A young African-American girl solicits the help of her best friend to escape the sexual torment inflicted by her Foster mother’s boyfriend and journeys to reunite with the mother she never knew; an adaptation of the upcoming novel, “The Rape Diaries”

54 LINE-UP continued

The New Boss Texas High School Short Runtime: 0:04:38 Country: USA Director: Daviah Harrison This documentary short film discusses powerful women who are breaking barriers and features Roslyn Stafford, the first African-American woman to own a Cigar Lounge in Texas.

The North Star: Finding Black Mecca International Short Narrative Runtime: 0:22:21 Country: USA Director: Angel Panag, Torrin Blades Once called ‘The Black Mecca’ and ‘A Colored Man’s Paris’ Chatham-Kent is a region in Canada with a long history of Black settlement. In spite of hardships, the community has thrived. The North Star is an independent film that documents the past and the present of a people who have helped shape this country, but are often left out of its textbooks.

The Other Side of Normal Episodic/Web Series Runtime: 0:19:31 Country: USA Director: Brandon Miree Rating: Adult Content A surreal day takes an even crazier turn when a therapist must deal with her quirky clients as her life spirals out of control.

The Pamphlet Texas High School Short Runtime: 0:05:1 Country: USA Director: Vincent Holloway When a homeless man’s loved one falls ill due to covid-19, he races for help finding out if she’s still alive.

The Pandemic Chronicles Episodic/Web Series Runtime: 0:15:00 Country: USA Director: Ya’Ke Rating: Adult Content- 18+ An anthology series about love and grief during quarantine. Filmed entirely during the Coronavirus lockdown using social distance and virtual directing.

The Passing On Documentary Feature Runtime: 1:10:00 Country: USA Director: Nathan Clarke Rating: Adult Content Three professions ushered Black former slaves from poverty to the American dream: preacher, teacher, and undertaker. Today, renowned embalmer James Bryant puts his faith in a new generation to continue this vanishing legacy. He’s met with resistance from his young intern, Clarence Pierre, who himself is conflicted about his commitment due to the judgment he feels from the Black community as a queer, Christian man.

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September 17-19, 2021 LINE-UP continued

The Perfect Ask Texas High School Short Runtime: 0:05:33 Country: USA Director: Stanley Turner With the school winter formal quickly approaching, a young boy finds himself in desperate need of a date. But the question remains, can he find one in time?

The Place We Hide Invitational Narrative Feature Runtime: 1:22:00 Country: USA Director: Erik Bernard A brilliant psychoanalyst is trapped in an elevator with a man sent to kill her.

The Process Narrative Feature Runtime: 1:44:56 Country: USA Director: Jake Fay Rating: Adult Content Sindile and his two best friends push the limits of their patience while maneuvering through their hometown and its local rap scene.

The Rage International Short Narrative Runtime: 0:10:00 Country: France Director: Aurelien Mathieu, Samir Mokeddem Akmal struggles against his guiltiness and the memories of his life with Sarah, who he lost brutally after a police control has gone wrong.

The Rhythm of Blue Invitational Documentary Feature Runtime: 0:53:28 Country: USA Director: Valaira Sa-Ra, J C Thomas Rating: Adult Content Seven women share their journey from depression to happiness. Several mental health experts shed light on the importance of breaking the stigmas involved with seeking help for mental illness in the African American community.

The Run Texas High School Short Runtime: 0:03:00 Country: USA Director: Daviah Harrison After continuously coming in contact with the same car, Audrey has to face the person she believes is her enemy.

The Subject Narrative Feature Runtime: 1:59:00 Country: USA Director: Lanie Zipoy Rating: Adult Content A successful white documentary filmmaker deals with the fallout from his last film, which caught the murder of a Black teenager on tape. Now, someone else is videotaping his every move, threatening his idyllic life.

57 LINE-UP continued

The Two Headed Dragon Short Documentary Runtime: 0:02:53 Country: USA Director: Jayme Joyce “The Two Headed Dragon” tells the story of Sam Castro, who is part of The Institute for Non-Violence Chicago, a group that is working with at-risk-youth to help them overcome their problems and make a better Chicago for people in low-income neighborhoods and in turn creating a better Chicago overall.

The Walk Home College Short Runtime: 0:07:52 Country: USA Director: Kendra Brown As his daughter gets older, a father must come to terms with letting her walk home alone after school.

The Watery Grave Short Narrative Runtime: 0:07:40 Country: USA Director: Michael Amerson Jr. A young man dealing with grief, experiences death and resurrection at his local church.

Therapy Episodic/Web Series Runtime: 0:16:29 Country: USA Director: Gregg DaCosta Rating: Adult Content “Therapy” is about a therapist using an unorthodox style of therapy to his clients that go to him from dealing with situations happening in their lives.

To Be Us: To Work Documentary Feature Runtime: 1:36:41 Country: USA Director: Tosca Davis, Cedrick Smith, Terrance Thomas Rating: Adult Content “To Be Us: To Work” is a narrative shattering documentary that holds a mirror to the systemic racism Black people experience in the workplace. This documentary features participants from a diverse class of professions and disciplines who share a common experience. For many participants, the time of filming was their first opportunity to name and vocalize their pain. Their candor, courage and vulnerability in relaying their traumas is soul-stirring.

Unapologetic Invitational Documentary Feature Runtime: 0:86:00 Country: USA Director: Ashley O’Shay Rating: Adult Content After two Black Chicagoans are killed, millennial organizers challenge an administration complicit in state violence against its residents. Told through the lens of Janaé and Bella, two fierce abolitionist leaders, Unapologetic is a deep look into the Movement for Black Lives, from the police murder of Rekia Boyd to the election of Mayor Lori Lightfoot. 58 LINE-UP continued

Unrequited Dreams: An American Truth Invitational Documentary Short Runtime: 0:26:00 Country: USA Director: Eboni Johnson In 1968 President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Fair Housing Act to dismantle discriminatory housing practices. Over 50 years later the housing gap has only widened between white homeowners and homeowners of color creating increasingly segregated neighborhoods across the national landscape. Focusing on the ever-gentrifying area of West Dallas we evaluate the meaning of the American Dream and the communities left with promises unfulfilled.

Vagrant International Narrative Feature Runtime: 1:23:27 Country: Canada Director: Caleb Ryan Rating: Adult Content Frank’s a homeless alcoholic who lives a fruitless existence. All that begins to change when he finds a puppy that was left to die in a garbage bin.

Valentine’s Day First Date Short Narrative Runtime: 0:05:06 Country: USA Director: Justin Casselle Rating: Adult Content A first date on Valentine’s Day - what could go wrong?

Wali & Zuri College Short Runtime: 0:08:00 Country: USA Director: Derrick Woodyard Wali, 13, attempts to make a new group of friends after being invited to play basketball. When his pesky younger sister Zuri, 10, forcibly tags along, he sacrifices their relationship to fit in and ultimately learns what is most important.

#WASHED SZN 2: Ep. 209 Premeditated (Finale) Invitational Episodic Series Runtime: 0:49:00 Country: USA Creator/Director: JEROD COUCH Rating: Adult Content- 18+ and a sense of humor Desperate, pressed and #WASHED up, a group of aging millennials attain everything they never wanted. Eric, Mark, Mya, Amber and Carmen come to their own personal crossroads. Everyone is trying something new as old flames rekindle. Claire gets knocked to her knees and Eric’s suspicion reaches a Peak.

With His Hands: A Dick Hendricks Retrospective Invitational Art Video Runtime: 0:4:40 Country: USA A retrospective exhibition of work by artist Dick Hendricks. Exhibition includes early landscapes, works inspired by Hendricks’ travels around the world, and his tissue paintings from the later years of his life. The featured artwork of the exhibition is Hendricks’ “With These Hands” trilogy, a painter’s study of hardworking hands from around the world. DBFF and The Greater Denton Arts Council (GDAC) present on 59 LINE-UP continued

Video on Demand; online and in person viewings of “With His Hands: A Dick Hendricks Retrospective.” The in- person hours are currently limited to Friday & Saturday 11:00 am - 5:00 pm (CST) at the Patterson-Appleton Arts Center (Gough Gallery), 400 E. Hickory St., Denton, Texas. To view online go to: dentonarts.com/with-his-hands.

Woke Short Narrative Runtime: 0:20:14 Country: USA Director: Raeshelle Cooke It’s the year 3000. A “woke” African-American woman wakes up in a post-apocalyptic ghost town after a “race war” has claimed the lives of all Black women on earth. When she stumbles upon a pair of futuristic news goggles that shows her what this race war actually was, she becomes truly woke for the first time in her life.

Zeke Forever: Habit Original Music Video Runtime: 0:03:00 Country: USA Director: Lauren Sultan A music video for Zeke Forever’s new single “Habit”. inspired by 90s / 00s music videos.

60 FIRST STATE BANK Proudly Supports the Fine Arts and Performers in Our Community

Call us today at 940-349-5444. Congratulations to those participating in the film festival! FirstState.Bank

400 W. Oak St. | 2430 W. University Dr. accessbanktx.com 3190 Teasley Ln. | Interactive Teller Machine (ITM)

1515 S. Loop 288 in Denton 940-484-1717

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61 VOLUNTEER Recognition

The Denton Black Film Festival has been a community project brought to life by a group of film-loving, dedicated, hardworking, and talented individuals. They are:

Adrian Neely Harry Eaddy Michelle Richmond Agatha Beins Ira McGill Mikaela Dapremont Alexis Bolden James Faust Monda Raquel Webb Alyceson-Grace Eke Jamila “Jiffy” Sherman Monique Bird Amani Sodiq-odunaiya Jarrett Goer Natalie Nichelson Amber Bishop Jasmine Bell Nicholette Shaw Annette Lawrence Jasmine Johnson Nick Nichelson Anthony B. Johnson Jasmine Rhodes Nicole Chochrek Athalia Branch Jeffrey McLeod Phoelyn Allen Barbara Robinson Johnathan Paul Rae Pleasant Beatrice McBride Julion Polk Raquel Chapa Bobbie Mason-Benning Justin Lemons Reverend Logan Brandon Lewis Kathia Woods Rhonda Bellamy Hodge Candi Harris Kay Wills Roma Flowers Carolyn Mohair Kelly Trager Rudy Cervantez Cassandra Berry Kyra Maryland Sarah Hodge Cinthia Jaimes LaKeidra Salazar Seckeita Taylor Daisy Best Laquintence (Quincy) Serges Himbaza Deana Ayers Canady II Shavonda Adams DeMarre McGill Lea Hamilton Shawna Myers Diamond Greene Linda Eaddy Simon Allo Dianne Frierson Maddie Nichelson Simone Obasuy Dorothy Bland Malon Bell Stephanie McLeod Eboni Johnson Marie and Jahi Osaze Susan Carol Davis Ellen Ryfle Marielena Resendiz TK Henderson Erin Boyce Mary Boyce Val Morgan Frances Punch Mary Williford Shade Walid Khaldi Giovanni von Essen Mary Wright Willie B. Eaddy Gloria Austin Melissa Shead Witness Locke Gwen and Harrison Coleman Meredith Buie

62 Deborah Laura Ferguson Harris TODAY

WEEKDAYS 4:30-7 AM ONLINEONLINE & IN-PERSONIN-PERSON FEBRUARY 5 GREATERGREATER DEDENTONNTON ARTS COUCOUNCILNCIL 400 EE. HICKORY STST. DENTONDENTON, TEXAS 7620762011 dentonarts.com Image information: Joey Slaughter, Worse is sometimes better, acrylic paint on wood pieces