The SOUL Film Festival x ABFF Global: London is set to return for its sixth annual edition, running from 29 August – 1 September at BFI Southbank and, for the first time, at the Midlands Arts Centre (Birmingham). This year’s festival promises a stellar lineup of films, exclusive previews, and special events that celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of Black cinema.
- UK Premiere of Jussie Smollett film “The Lost Holliday”
- Exclusive preview of BBC drama “Mr Loverman”
- Screening of critically acclaimed “SING SING”
The festival will open with the highly anticipated “SING SING”, starring Oscar nominated Colman Domingo & Paul Raci setting the stage for a weekend of cinematic brilliance.
A major highlight of the festival will be the exclusive preview of “MR LOVERMAN”, a television adaptation of Bernardine Evaristo’s acclaimed novel courtesy of the BBC, Fable Pictures and Sony Pictures Entertainment. This screening of the first two episodes will be followed by a special Q&A session with the cast, including Lennie James, Ariyon Bakare, series producer Irma Inniss and author Bernardine Evaristo, providing an intimate look into the making of this eagerly awaited series.
In addition, the festival will spotlight shorts from emerging talents in London and Birmingham, showcasing the next generation of filmmakers.
The SOUL Film Festival x ABFF Global: London will also honour actor Jimmy Akingbola with a special Impact Award, celebrating his significant contributions to film and television.
To conclude the weekend, the festival will screen “THE LOST HOLLIDAY”, starring Jussie Smollett, who also serves as writer and director. Jussie Smollett and co-stars Vivica A. Fox, Jabari Redd, Londyn Carter and executive producer Tressa Smallwood, will be present for a post-screening Q&A offering audiences a unique insight into this compelling project.
Nicole Friday, Producer of the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) & President, NICE CROWD says:
“Our collaboration with S.O.U.L Fest reflects our shared commitment to uplifting Black voices and stories through cinema. Each year, we’re excited to bring powerful films from the American Black Film Festival’s official selections to audiences worldwide. This year is no exception. With the UK premiere of “The Lost Holliday”, starring Jussie Smollett and Vivica A. Fox, we’re proud to continue celebrating the rich and diverse talent in Black filmmaking on an international stage.”
Iyare Igiehon, Director of the SOUL Film Festival, shared his excitement:
“We are thrilled to bring the sixth edition of the SOUL Film Festival to BFI Southbank. This year’s lineup is our most ambitious yet, reflecting the incredible talent and diversity within Black cinema. We look forward to celebrating these stories and the artists behind them with our audience.”
To book tickets at BFI Southbank and Mac Birmingham for a celebration of Black cinema that promises to inspire, entertain, and provoke thought please visit:
About SOUL Film Festival: The SOUL Film Festival is dedicated to showcasing the best in Black cinema, providing a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers. Our mission is to celebrate the richness of Black culture and storytelling through the power of film.
About We Are Parable: We Are Parable is a multi-award-winning company that provides audiences with opportunities to experience Black cinema and TV in culturally relevant, memorable, and unique ways. Founded in 2013, We Are Parable is dedicated to supporting filmmakers and championing new voices in film through exhibition, distribution, and mentorship opportunities.
About The British Blacklist: The British Blacklist is a media platform that celebrates the work of UK-based Black creatives and those of the wider Diaspora across Screen, Stage, Literature, and Sound. Since 2012, it has been the go-to platform for information about the exciting work of UK-based Black storytellers, from new talent to established household names.
About Soul Film: Soul Film is a platform with the mission to make the British film and TV industry more diverse by celebrating and connecting filmmakers and audiences from The Global Majority.
About NICE CROWD: NICE CROWD is the company behind the American Black Film Festival, dedicated to showcasing and advancing the work of Black filmmakers and content creators. Through its various initiatives, NICE CROWD aims to celebrate Black culture and storytelling, providing a platform for diverse voices in the film industry.
GET TICKETS: S.O.U.L. Fest x ABFF Global London 2024
29 August – 1 September 2024
The sixth annual S.O.U.L. Fest, in partnership with ABFF Global London, returns to BFI Southbank this August. Expect the usual combination of exclusive preview feature films, hand-picked shorts, panel discussions, and practical sessions to support emerging talent in their journey through the film industry. Last year’s programme featured two future BAFTA award-winners.
For all the latest information go to www.soulfilmfest.co.uk.
