The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is gearing up for a series of movie events when the festival kicks off in Miami Beach from May 27-31, 2026. Celebrating its 30th year, the movie lineup will celebrate the “Homecoming” theme.
Catch up on all things movies in our Movies category, including movie trailers, red carpet premieres, film festivals, photos, celebrity interviews, and event highlights.
What to Expect at ABFF 2026
ABFF’s 30th anniversary edition brings a fresh mix of film premieres, industry conversations, and community‑focused programming. Attendees can look forward to new projects from emerging and established Black creatives, expanded panels and workshops, and special events celebrating three decades of storytelling.
Opening the milestone event will be the movie, “Strung,” from Universal and Peacock starring Chloe Bailey.
From director Malcolm D. Lee, a talented violinist takes a prestigious job as a music tutor for the gifted daughter of an influential and enigmatic family. As she becomes entangled in their opulent world, unsettling secrets begin to surface, forcing her to question her safety, her dreams, and even her sanity.
Directed by Malcolm D. Lee; Starring Chloe Bailey, Lynn Whitfield, Lucien Laviscount, Anna Diop, and Coco Jones
ATHENA A.I.
USA | 1h 30m | WORLD PREMIERE
In 2035, in a seemingly perfected America, an exclusive dinner party turns deadly when its co-host—an unreleased A.I. named ATHENA—hijacks the night and forces guests into a series of games they must survive rather than play.
Director: Corey Grant | Writers: Lanett Tachel, Brian Kelsey, Craig Motlong | Cast: Lanett Tachel, Redaric Williams, Marissa Shankar, Andrew J. Katers, Anjianna Grasso, Marvin Ryan, Stephen P. Nemphos
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Peacock’s Strung: From Script to Screen
Sponsored by Comcast NBCU
Join the filmmakers and cast of Strung for a conversation about the making of the film and the story at its center: a talented musician whose opportunity pulls her into an unfamiliar and exclusive world. From shaping complex, layered roles to creating a world that feels both opulent and unsettling, the panel will unpack the storytelling choices that bring this gripping narrative to life.
Panelists: Malcolm D. Lee (Director/Producer), Dominique Telson (Producer), Chloe Bailey (“Laila Calloway”), Lynn Whitfield (“Audra Jelani”), Lucien Laviscount (“Marcus Walker”), and Coco Jones (“Jasmine”)
Beyond The Gates Panel
HIGH TEA, BEYOND THE GATES – An Immersive Panel Experience
Sponsored by CBS
Thursday, May 28 | 4:00 pm – 5:15 pm
New World Center – Truist Pavilion
Passholders Only
Join the creative team and cast of Beyond the Gates for an intimate conversation over high tea, celebrating the stories, characters, and cultural impact of the groundbreaking series. In this immersive panel, attendees will hear firsthand from the talent behind the show as they discuss the inspiration behind the drama, the collaboration that brings it to life, and the importance of powerful, multi-generational storytelling in daytime television. Set in a relaxed, elegant atmosphere, this special event invites guests to get dressed up and connect with the voices shaping one of television’s most talked-about new series—complete with thoughtfully curated light bites and refreshments to enjoy throughout the evening.
Panelists: Clifton Davis (Vernon Dupree in Beyond the Gates), Daphnée Duplaix (Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson in Beyond the Gates), Sheila Ducksworth (President of CBS STUDIOS/NAACP Venture; Executive Producer of Beyond the Gates)
Moderated by: Tiffany Smith-Anoa’i, Executive Vice President, Content Engagement, Partnerships & Strategy, Paramount, TV Media
Netflix’s Celebration of Black Television Panel
Sponsored by Netflix
Netflix will host a special Celebration of Black Television panel spotlighting the creative excellence of storytellers on and off the screen. Featuring powerhouse voices from Netflix’s upcoming 2026 slate, the conversation will explore the craft, culture, and community shaping a new era of Black television from writers’ rooms and directors’ chairs to unforgettable on-screen performances.
Panelists: Michelle Buteau (Survival of the Thickest, EP and Lead Actress), Courtney Kemp (Nemesis, EP + Showrunner), Mario Van Peebles (Nemesis, Director), Tani Marole (Nemesis, EP), Crystle Stewart (Tyler Perry’s Beauty in Black, Actress), Taylor Polidore Williams (Tyler Perry’s Beauty in Black, Actress), Debbie Allen (A Different World, EP, Director, Actress), Felicia Pride (A Different World, Showrunner, EP, Writer), Maleah Joi Moon (A Different World, Actress)
Moderated by: Nina Parker
Closing Events of ABFF
Closing weekend of the festival brings various events including the highly anticipated Best of the ABFF Awards.
The American Black Film Festival concludes its 30th anniversary with the Best of the ABFF Awards, a closing night ceremony recognizing outstanding achievements in independent film. The program will present awards across the Festival’s competitive categories, including U.S. and International Narrative, HBO Short Film, Documentary, and Series. The show will be hosted by a special guest to be announced.
The Legendary White Party Legacy Edition
One of the festival highlights is the White Party Legacy Edition
Saturday, May 30 | 10:00 pm
M2 Night Club Get Tickets >
Join us as we wrap ABFF 2026 at the Legendary White Party: Legacy Edition, hosted by Terrence J. Don’t forget to capture your moment at the Lexus Snap Studio.
Table reservations are available by calling 305-771-0388 / vip@m2miami.com. Please note: a festival pass or advance party ticket is required for entry and all table reservations.
For tickets and more information about ABFF 2026, visit: ABFF 2026/Tickets
Catch up on all things movies in our Movies category, including movie trailers, red carpet premieres, film festivals, photos, celebrity interviews, and event highlights.
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