Celebrating Black Stories on Screen: The 31st Annual African Diaspora International Film Festival

Mark your calendars for November 24th, when the acclaimed African Diaspora International Film Festival (ADIFF) returns to New York City to showcase a kaleidoscopic range of Black experiences and cultures worldwide. Now entering its 31st year, ADIFF has become the largest Black film festival in America.

Founded in 1993 by Diarah N’Daw-Spech with co-director Regina Kimbell, ADIFF’s mission is to promote diversity and breakthrough contemporary films that reflect the rich histories and stories of the African diaspora. This year’s program will include over 100 films representing 33 countries, spanning features, shorts, web series, and documentaries across opening night, narrative features, documentary features, short films, and vr experiences categories.

Highlights will include the U.S. premiere of Namwali Serpell’s sweeping historical drama “Mr. Field’s Choices” from Zambia, Andre Novais Oliveira’s intimate Brazilian feature “Vento Seco”, the documentary “Duty Free” from Lebanon following director Ayyappan Kodiyan, and short films like Isabel Sandoval’s “Lingua Franca” from the Philippines.

Beyond the films, ADIFF will host workshops, visual arts exhibitions, and the Black Pop-Up Cinema Lounge for learning and community. The Breakthrough Artists Showcase will also spotlight emerging diaspora directors and voices.

As N’Daw-Spech says, “We bring together artists of African descent from around the world…to explore the rich diversity of experiences through the prism of cinema.” Don’t miss this chance to celebrate inspiring Black artistry on screen at the 31st ADIFF this November 24th!