NEW: The American Black Film Festival Continues To Give Festival-goers a Unique Experience!

The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) returns to Miami Beach for its 28th year and continues to give festival-goers a unique experience.

Each year, ABFF prioritizes uplifting black creators and creating a community amongst Film & TV enthusiasts. We also got to see media mogul, Issa Rae, stepping into her new role as a creative director for the festival. You can always expect ABFF to accumulate new talent and filmmakers to share their unique stories on screen.

“All of the planning that goes into the festival and the excitement around it is fun,” Nicole Friday (President of ABFF & NICE CROWD) stated. “We look for the best stories and the best storytellers!”  

The Knockturnal had the opportunity to attend some exclusive events, catching up with some of your favorite stars. Check out some recaps below: 

Day 2 at ABFF, Nia Long sat down with Jack Howard (Head of Money wellness at Ally) to talk about money and mindfulness. We’ve followed Nia’s career as she journeys through the industry making ends meet as an actress. She shared with the audience how seeing her mom receiving food stamps is what motivated her to kickstart her acting career. Nia also emphasizes the importance of creating generational wealth. 

“I started saving up for my son’s college before I even became a mother,” She stated. “I’m proud to say that I put him through college debt free and he recently graduated from NYU.” Long continued sharing financial gems and wanted the audience to change their attitude when it comes to money. Get started on your savings journey with Ally. 

Later on that day, The Knockturnal had a chat with Cory Hardrict and Meagan Good about their new drama film Divorce in the Black directed by Tyler Perry.  Meagan landed the role as Ava, who is a young bank professional determined to fight for her marriage. Alongside Meagan, Cory will be playing her Husband “Dallas” in the film.

MIAMI BEACH, FL – JUNE 13: Tyler Perry’s Divorce in the Black with Meagan Good and Cory Hardrict during Day 2 of the American Black Film Festival on June 13, 2024 in Miami Beach, FL. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton / ABFF) 

The story follows Ava’s husband, Dallas, as he leaves her heartbroken by deserting their marriage. Dallas’ malicious actions unravel as Ava gets a chance to find true love with her destined soulmate.

“He has unhealed trauma from his childhood that he never recovered from. This causes him to carry that trauma into his adulthood.” Cory stated. Meagan joined in to also give us an insight on her character. 

“As a wife, she was trying to do everything in her power to believe they can grow past the hardships [in their marriage].” This will be the first time Hardrict and Good work together on the big screen.

Divorce in the Black will be available to stream Thursday, July 11th on Prime Video.