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

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 Youth Cinema Throwback: The Wiz

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

Join us for a screening of The Wiz, directed by Sidney Lumet. Follow Harlem schoolteacher Dorothy (Diana Ross) as she tries to save her dog from a storm and is miraculously whisked away to the urban fantasy land of Oz. Rated G, this film is perfect for all ages. Free, registration required.

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. 

NBFF Youth Cinema Throwback: Ruby Bridges

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

Join us for a screening of Ruby Bridges, directed by Euzhan Palcy. When six-year-old Ruby is chosen to be the first African-American to integrate her local elementary school, she faces the harsh realities of racism for the first time. Rated PG, this film is an important and moving story for all ages.

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.

NBFF Live Music in the Lounge

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

Unwind with some live music in the Engelhard Court Lounge. Gain access with a NBFF screening ticket, NBFF festival pass, or NMOA museum admission.

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.