BlackStar Film Festival hosted a special preview event in New York City, offering guests an exclusive first look at the programming for its 2025 edition.

Hosted at WSA’s new cinema, 17 floors above Manhattan, the day featured film previews and conversations with some of the incredible voices shaping this year’s program. The event included a screening of a clip from The Toni Cade Bambara School of Organizing by documentary filmmaker Louis Massiah, which will make its world premiere on the opening night of the festival. Writer Tre Johnson read excerpts from his upcoming book Black Genius, which includes a chapter on BlackStar before joining festival founder Maori Karmael Holmes and Massiah for a conversation on the film. Attendees also had an opportunity to view a clip of The Great North by Jenn Nkiru, which will make its North American premiere as the festival’s closing night film. The screening was followed by a conversation with BlackStar’s festival director Nehad Khader. 

Guests enjoyed cocktails featuring Ten to One Rum and mingled before and after the preview, conversing about the compelling films set to premiere at the festival later this summer.

The preview offered a glimpse into the bold storytelling and creative vision that defines BlackStar, setting the tone for this year's edition. With thought-provoking screenings, insightful conversations, and a vibrant community of filmmakers, artists, and supporters in attendance, the event celebrated the spirit of collaboration and cultural exchange that makes BlackStar a crucial platform for visionary voices in film.

Image credit: Danté Crichlow/BFA