In the Order of Weapons: 50 Years of Community Film Across Black America

Newark Black Film Festival: Power of the Dream

The Newark Museum of Art 49 Washington Street, Newark, United States

Join us for the kickoff of the Newark Black Film Festival with a free screening of Power of the Dream, directed by Dawn Porter, and the short film A Race in the Sun by K. Nicole Mills. Experience the inspiring stories of groundbreaking athletes and stay for an engaging Q&A. Free admission, registration required.

Newark Black Film Festival: Drip Like Coffee

The Newark Museum of Art 49 Washington Street, Newark, United States

Join us for a free screening of Drip Like Coffee, directed by Anaiis Cisco, and the short film Unbraided by Caroline Renard. Discover the unexpected romance of two Brooklyn baristas and follow Frankie’s quest through Los Angeles. Stay for a post-screening Q&A with Director Anaiis Cisco. Free admission, registration required.

NBFF Opening Night Reception and Film: Sing Sing

The Newark Museum of Art 49 Washington Street, Newark, United States

A celebration to launch the official opening of the 50th Newark Black Film Festival, featuring DJ Skeme Richards, followed by a special opening night presentation of Sing Sing. 

NBFF Honors Kasi Lemmons

The Newark Museum of Art 49 Washington Street, Newark, United States

Join us for screening of short film, Behold a Lady, followed by the screening of iconic throwback Eve's Bayou as we celebrate and honor director, Kasi Lemmons. 

Newark Black Film Festival: Songs from the Hole

The Newark Museum of Art 49 Washington Street, Newark, United States

Join us for a screening of Songs from the Hole, directed by Contessa Gayles. This documentary visual album follows an incarcerated musician's journey for healing and peace as he comes of age behind bars. Experience his powerful story and stay for a Q&A with director, Contessa Gayles and producer richie reseda.

Newark Black Film Festival: Toll

The Newark Museum of Art 49 Washington Street, Newark, United States

Join us for a screening of Toll, directed by Carolina Markowicz. This film follows Suellen, a toll booth attendant who helps a gang of thieves steal watches to afford sending her son to a gay conversion workshop. The film is in Portuguese with English subtitles. Stay for a Q&A following the screening.

NBFF Panel: Where Creativity Meets Commerce: Small Businesses Working with Film & TV 

The Newark Museum of Art 49 Washington Street, Newark, United States

Discover the wealth of opportunities in New Jersey's film and TV industry and explore the resources and incentives from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA). Hear from local business owners who have already benefited. Complimentary food from Cornbread will be provided. Free registration required.

NBFF Panel: 50 Years of Black Film

The Newark Museum of Art 49 Washington Street, Newark, United States

Join us for a panel discussion that explores the evolution of Black cinema over the past five decades. Delve into the milestones, influential films, and pivotal moments that have helped shape the landscape of film. Free, registration required.

In the Order of Weapons: 50 Years of Community Film Across Black America

The Newark Museum of Art 49 Washington Street, Newark, United States

As we celebrate 50 years of the Newark Black Film Festival, join us for a dynamic curation of radical short documentaries made by and for Black communities across the United States. These films, collectively created by community entities, confront local power, preserve histories, and effect change. Following the screening, enjoy a panel discussion featuring MacArthur prize-winning filmmaker Louis Massiah, moderated by Yvonne Michelle Shirley.

Newark Black Film Festival: Swamp Dogg Gets His Pool Painted

The Newark Museum of Art 49 Washington Street, Newark, United States

Join us for a screening of Swamp Dogg Gets His Pool Painted, directed by Isaac Gale, Ryan Olson, and David McMurry. This documentary follows cult musician Swamp Dogg and his housemates Moogstar and Guitar Shorty as they transform their suburban LA home into an artistic haven and navigate the turbulent music business. Stay for a Q&A with Swamp Dogg, Moogstar, and Dr. Jeri Williams.