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Dubbed “The Black Sundance,” the Hollywood Black Film Festival (HBFF) is an annual 4-day celebration of Black Cinema drawing together established filmmakers, popular film and TV stars, writers, directors, industry executives, emerging artists, and diverse audiences from Southern California and around the world. HBFF’s INFOTAINMENT CONFERENCE features a wealth of informational panels and workshops covering a wide variety of topics which include: film production, distribution and marketing, pitching, writing for television and film, in addition to specific programs designed to inform and educate actors.

CLICK on film or panel titles to get more information. SORT by category by clicking on the category name on the right side of the page.

Thursday, October 25
 

12:00pm PDT

Registration Opens

Registration will take place @ Station Hollywood inside the W Hollywood Hotel on their outdoor deck.


Thursday October 25, 2012 12:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Station Hollywood at The W Hotel 6250 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA

7:00pm PDT

"Note to Self" - Opening Night Film

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Trey Haley 

Writer - Christian Keyes

Producers - ND Brown, Eric Tomosunas, Veronica Nichols, Keith Neal 

Executive Producers - Brett Dismuke, Christian Keyes

Co-Producer - Jeff Lam

Associate Producers - Gregory Anderson, Reginald Jones

Principal Cast - Christian Keyes(Tyler Perry's Madea Goes to Jail, BET’s Let’s Stay Together), LeToya Luckett (Grammy Recording Artist, Preacher’s Kid), Richard T. Jones (Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married), Brian McKnight (Platinum Recording Artist) Eva Marcille (America’s Top Model), Clifton Powell (Ray), Valarie Pettiford (Jumping the Broom), Jason Weaver (Drumline, The Lion King), Brely Evans (Sparkle), Sebastian Siegal (Tyler Perry’s The Family that Preys), Willie Taylor (MTV’s Day 26), Mishon Ratliff (Lincoln Heights), Brian McKnight Jr. and more.

 

View the TRAILER

 

Synopsis:

As the Summer has come to a close, the Fall season returns, and with it brings the College Sports Season, Back to School, and all the trappings that come with Autumn, from weather to romance.  This Fall, Tri Destined Studios welcomes the Season of Love with the romantic coming of age film “Note to Self”, presented along with Image Entertainment, One Village Ent., and Swirl Films. In the vein of “Love and Basketball” meets “Good Will Hunting”, “Note to Self” follows a handsome and popular student athlete coming of age during his senior year of college, as his world begins to fall apart due to his mom’s failing health and the reappearance of his father after 16 years. Curtis confides in a therapist whom he interns for, about the things he is going through, who recommends that Curtis start writing it all down in his journal so he can explore his thoughts and feelings ala a note to self. While struggling with his issues, Curtis is caught in a love triangle between his “friend with benefits” and a student nurse who happens to be a full time pessimist on the subject of love and men. Curtis inevitably learns in this journey of self-realization that he must release his mother, regain his father, find true love, graduate, and finally understand his note to self.

 

HBFF 2012 Opening Night Film & After-Party

Sponsored by One Village Entertainment, Tri Destined Studios, Swirl Films, Southern Girl Desserts, and D’s Orginal Take Out Grill



Thursday October 25, 2012 7:00pm - 9:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

9:30pm PDT

Opening Night After-Party

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

It's time for the Old School College Jam:  Represent Your Yard at the Hollywood Black Film Festival 2012 Opening Night!


The Hollywood Black Film Festival 2012 Opening Night will present a fun-filled night of college flashbacks with the opening night film, "Note to Self."  The film centers around a handsome and popular student-athlete who embarks on a journey of self-realization while navigating the choppy waters of a love triangle.

What can be better than watching a film that reminds you of your college days, than an after-party that allows you to relive it!

Join the cast and crew of "Note to Self" as they REPRESENT their colleges, universities, fraternities and sororities at the themed 2012 Hollywood Black Film Festival Opening Night and After-Party.  How will you represent your yard? 

Don't be scared to reach into the back of your closet and pull out that favorite college sweatshirt, don that HBCU hat hiding on the top shelf or dust off your fraternity or sorority jacket and join us for our "Old School College" night. 

Get in the spirit of college days and represent your yard!

 

Get a little taste of southern hospitality from co-owners Shoneji Robison and Catarah Hampshire of Southern Girl Desserts.  Our “Dessert Divas” will be tantalizing those taste buds with southern inspired decadent delicacies at our opening night film and gala.

D’s Original Take Out Grill, owned and operated by Chef "D" Damon & Wendy Stalworth, invites you to enjoy a taste of  THE BEST SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA SOUL CUISINE at our opening night film and gala where they will present savory bites of their soulfood selections.

 

HBFF 2012 Opening Night Film & After-Party

Sponsored by One Village Entertainment, Tri Destined Studios, Swirl Films, Southern Girl Desserts, and D's Original Take Out Grill



Thursday October 25, 2012 9:30pm - Friday October 26, 2012 2:00am PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028
 
Friday, October 26
 

9:00am PDT

Registration Opens

Registration will take place in the Great Room Foyer


Friday October 26, 2012 9:00am - 5:00pm PDT
Great Room Foyer, W Hotel 6250 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood CA 90028

10:00am PDT

Packaging & Pitching Your Project and Yourself

What are you pitching? Who are you pitching to? And why? As artrepreneurs, wearing more hats everyday, sometimes our passion and urgency can cause us to skip critical steps or blow precious opportunities. As technologies converge, the screen lines blur and obfuscate the delineation between studio and independent. It is increasingly important for you to be able to distill, engagingly communicate and stay focused on your end game. Come get a GPS overview of the lay of the land that is "Hollywood" and the players and niches in our ever-shrinking global media marketplace. Discover new and more effective ways of presenting and promoting yourself and your projects - and adjusting your marketing materials or verbal spiel to whomever you can position yourself to pitch to. Whether you're a writer/director/producer of - or an actor in - indie films, webseries or TV series proposals, pitching your concept to the networks, cable outlets or cobbling together your budget through private investors and brand sponsorship or even later in the process, launching (or rekindling) a social media marketing campaign for a pre-existing intellectual property - you're selling every step of the way. Come learn some cutting edge insights mixed with good old fashioned common sense to help you rethink how you might better creatively collaborate in the highest and best interests of your projects' and career goals.

 


Speakers
avatar for Heather Hale

Heather Hale

Film & TV Director/Screenwriter/Producer/Script Consultant/Speaker/Teacher, Heather Hale Productions
I'm a film and television screenwriter, director, producer and consultant. I'm passionate about helping people make their dreams come true. I love working with great people on great projects. As a storyteller and artrepreneur, I aspire to delight, inspire joy, express unconditional... Read More →


Friday October 26, 2012 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

11:15am PDT

New Avenues To Finance, Produce & Distribute Films On Any Budget

Independent film financing and distribution of a film can be tricky. You can pitch a film project, but you must also be able to dance to music of the investor. It’s their stage, and they don’t like indie filmmakers looking for funding. Come find out how the availability of commercial distribution opportunities for films at any budget level is changing as the industry embraces an explosion of new and unconventional resources for financing, producing and distributing independent films.


Speakers
avatar for Kathryn Arnold

Kathryn Arnold

Entertainment Consultant, Expert Witness and Producer, The Entertainment Expert
Whether operating within the studio system or on the fringes of the independent film market, Kathryn Arnold has spent her professional career shepherding creative ideas to the marketplace. Working in both long and short form, her first producing effort The Coriolis Effect, won The... Read More →
avatar for Brickson Diamond

Brickson Diamond

Board Chair, The Blackhouse Foundation
Brickson Diamond is Chief Executive Officer of Big Answers LLC, an independent strategic consulting practice focused on capacity building in the areas of investment stewardship, organizational planning and bringing services and offerings to market within small to mid-sized non-profit... Read More →
avatar for Darrien Michele Gipson

Darrien Michele Gipson

Executive Director, SAGindie
avatar for Suzanne Lyons

Suzanne Lyons

Producer, Snowfall Films & WindChill Films
SUZANNE LYONS has over 25 years experience in television and film.  She was VP of Marketing and Promotions for a Canadian TV Network and while there she created, produced and directed news, promotions, commercials and series programming and has won numerous awards for her work... Read More →
avatar for Hal Sadoff

Hal Sadoff

Financial Advisor to the Entertainment & Media Industries
Hal Sadoff is one of the leading financial advisors to the media and entertainment industry, playing an integral role in more than 400 film productions and financings totaling over $3.5 billion. Sadoff served as Head of International and Film Finance at International Creative Management... Read More →
avatar for Travis Stevens

Travis Stevens

Founder / Producer, Snow Fort Pictures
Snowfort Pictures is a boutique production company specializing in the development, financing, production and sale of commercial genre films worldwide. It was founded in 2010 by film development and sales exec Travis Stevens.  The company's first production, A HORRIBLE WAY TO... Read More →


Friday October 26, 2012 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

12:00pm PDT

Hubbles's Diverse Universe (An Afternoon of Docs)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Dean Tapia

Producer - Lisa Boags

Executive Producers - Jarita Holbrook, Romeel Davé

Exact Running Time - 27:00

Country of Production - USA

View the Trailer

Website: http://www.hdumovie.com/

 

Synopsis:

The scientific research and experiences of six African American and three Hispanic American astronomers and astrophysicists are presented in this documentary. 'Diverse' refers to both the ethnic diversity of the scientists who appear in the film and the diverse set of astronomy topics explored. The film has four chapters: Science, Diversity, Mentoring and Outreach, and NASA's Contributions. The astronomers discuss their scientific projects and the role of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) in their research. They share what it takes to succeed as an astrophysicist and talk about the people who have helped them along the way. Though their lives have included challenges, they provide an inspirational message to future students of astronomy.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Jarita Holbrook

Jarita Holbrook

2016-17 Health, Education & Human Services Fellow, S&T Policy Fellowships
I will be at NSF OISE. Astrophysics, Anthropology, Indigenous Astronomy, Astronomy & Society. I'm a physics professor at the University of the Western Cape in Cape Town, South Africa. I am passionate about making films featuring minority astrophysicists that promote cultural change... Read More →



Friday October 26, 2012 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

12:00pm PDT

Innocents Lost: Teenage Girls Struggles (An Afternoon of Docs)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer - Dana Hanna

Producer - Joy Sudduth

Exact Running Time - 47:00

Country of Production - USA

 

Synopsis:

This edgy documentary will explore drug use, prostitution, gang-banging and other issues that make up the lives of three young girls. This is for teenagers that may be headed down the wrong path, those that are already on it and those that need to know that it is never too late to return to innocence.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist

Friday October 26, 2012 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

12:30pm PDT

Hollywood 101: I Want To Be An Actor, Writer, Director Or Producer –Where Do I Start?

This workshop and panel discussion will focus on resources for the beginner actor,writer, director producer, will discuss the importance of networking, and give information on developing your talent so when they opportunity comes, you’re ready.


Speakers
avatar for Sheldon Candis

Sheldon Candis

Writer/Director, CINEPHILE ACADEMY
Baltimore native Sheldon Candis is a graduate of the USC School of Cinematic Arts. Candis’ documentary “The Dwelling,” chronicles the lives of two homeless men living along Tokyo's Sumida Gawa. The film is being distributed by Scion and Giant Robot magazine. Candis’ short... Read More →
avatar for Matthew Cherry

Matthew Cherry

Producer / Director
Matthew A. CHerry is a filmmaker from Chicago, Illinois. He attended the University Of Akron on a football scholarship and with honors with a double major oin radio/tv broadcast and media production and a minor in marketing. He is a former NFL football player who played for the Jacksonville... Read More →
avatar for Dorian Missick

Dorian Missick

Actor
No stranger to the stage, film or television, New Jersey-born, New York raised, Dorian Missick is a true artistic Renaissance man. This versatile actor burst onto the entertainment scene where he starred alongside Sandra Bullock and Hugh Grant in “Two Weeks’ Notice.” Currently... Read More →
avatar for Ashida Onrae

Ashida Onrae

Host / Speaker
Ashida Onrae is a dynamic host and inspirational speaker, native and current resident of Los Angeles, CA. Ashida’s intrigue with the entertainment industry came at an early age, having been exposed to it by her mom, Cyndi Reece-Thorne, a successful makeup artist, whose wealth... Read More →
avatar for Amber Rasberry

Amber Rasberry

Director of Development, 34th St Films, a subsidiary of Tyler Perry Studios
Upon graduating from USC, Amber Rasberry started her career in music video and commercial production with HSI Productions in Los Angeles, working with such directors as Paul Hunter, Little X, Hype Williams, David LaChapelle, and Sam Bayer.  Making the transition from video to film... Read More →
avatar for Nzingha Stewart

Nzingha Stewart

Writer / Producer / Director
Nzingha Stewart attended NYU’s Gallatin School majoring in Philosophy, but found her true passion as a filmmaker, and upon graduation went on to shoot over a hundred MTV & BET videos, garnering awards and nominations along the way, for artists like Joss Stone, Common, Eve, Keyshia... Read More →
avatar for Datari Turner

Datari Turner

Producer
With more than 15 years of experience, Datari Turner has worked along side some of the biggest names in entertainment including Sean "Diddy" Combs, Jay-Z, Russell Simmons, Demi Moore, Tim Story, Francis Lawrence, Bruce Webber, and the late Herb Ritts to name a few. In 2011 and 2012... Read More →


Friday October 26, 2012 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

1:30pm PDT

Mas Man: The Complete Work

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director - Dalton Narine

Exact Running Time - 89:00

Country of Production - Trinidad and Tobago, U S A

View the TRAILER

Website: http://www.masmanthemovie.com 

 

Synopsis:

It is the only film made about the man who reached 80 per cent of the planet in a single night. Mas Man (The Complete Work) explores Peter Minshall's leap from designer in the Trinidad Carnival to an artistic director of the Opening Ceremonies for three Olympic Games, based on his knack for 'making what is small seem big in an Olympic stadium.' Minshall served as an artistic director in the 1992 Barcelona Games; Atlanta, 1996; and Salt Lake City, 2006. Olympic producers found his genius for staging grand spectacles in his native Trinidad, where his themes usually play on good and evil. Where his stage has been the mas, which he brings to the street as theater, way beyond the horizon of masquerade.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Dalton Narine

Dalton Narine

Executive producer and director, King Carnival Productions
DALTON NARINE, executive producer and producer/director of Mas Man - The Complete Work, is an award-winning Florida writer and documentary filmmaker. Born in Trinidad, Narine migrated to the United States in his late teens. His cinematic focus has been largely on Trinidadian art... Read More →



Friday October 26, 2012 1:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

1:45pm PDT

Bringing Diversity To Show Business: Talent Diversity

There are a multitude of business opportunities in the studio and network systems for talent in the areas of acting, directing, writing and producing. However, there are also behind the scenes jobs ranging from accounting, development, graphic design, legal and printing services to marketing, video production and editing. This session is geared toward up and coming creative and business professionals who want to learn the secrets to obtaining opportunities to share your talent to the major studios and networks.

Diversity executives from NBC, CBS, ABC, WB & the WGA will discuss how to be seen by studios/networks. They will answer a wide range of questions including: What does it take to be taken seriously by the studios/networks? How to cultivate contacts within the studio and network systems? How does a studio/network go about selecting diverse talent? How can diversity representatives help me? How do I meet and find the right advocates within the studio and network?

 


Speakers
avatar for David Brownstein

David Brownstein

Producer. Songwriter. Mixer., DJ Trotsky
David Brownstein (aka DJ Trotsky) is a Los Angeles, CA based songwriter, producer and mixer creating emotionally authentic, harmonically rich pop, electronic, rock and alternative music. Working in New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles he has produced and written rock, pop... Read More →
avatar for Karen Horne

Karen Horne

Vice President, Entertainment Diversity Programs, NBC Entertainment and Universal Television
Karen Horne is responsible for overseeing primetime diversity programs for NBC and Universal Television. She heads NBC’s Writers on the Verge Program and the Director Fellowship Program while overseeing NBC's Diversity Staffing Initiative and NBC's Content creator program with the... Read More →
avatar for Christopher Mack

Christopher Mack

Vice President, Warner Bros. Workshop, Warner Bros.
Christopher Mack is the Vice President of the Warner Bros. Workshop, where he has worked the past six years.  In addition to the Workshop, Mack covers Two and Half Men and Smallville for the Current Programs department.   Prior to working at Warner Bros., Mack spent seven years... Read More →
avatar for Robert Mendez

Robert Mendez

Senior Vice-President, Disney/ABC Television Group
Robert Mendez was named Senior Vice President, Diversity, Disney │ ABC Television Group (DATG) in November 2005.In his role, Mendez is responsible for advancing diversity strategies for the various properties within DATG, including the ABC Television Network, ABC Studios, Disney... Read More →
avatar for Kimberly Myers

Kimberly Myers

Director of Diversity, Writers Guild of America, West
Kimberly Myers began her career in the film industry in New York City. After a stint at “Saturday Night Live” producing short films and as an executive at Showtime, she moved to WNET, the New York public television station where she became Director of Drama, producing dozens... Read More →
avatar for Tiffany Smith-Anoa'i

Tiffany Smith-Anoa'i

Vice-President, Entertainment Diversity & Communications, CBS
A native of Los Angeles, Tiffany N. Smith-Anoa’i has over 20 years of experience as a creative and dedicated communications professional.   Smith-Anoa’i joined CBS Entertainment as a Senior Publicist for primetime series in 2000.  Currently Smith-Anoa’i serves as Vice President... Read More →


Friday October 26, 2012 1:45pm - 2:45pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

2:00pm PDT

Story Development Workshop For The 2012 HBFF Storyteller Semi-Finalists & Finalists (Part 1)

Open to 2012 HBFF Storyteller Semi-Finalists & Finalists only

In this intensive, two-day workshop, writers bring with them 3-5 pitches for potential, not-yet-written feature film projects.  Each pitch should be typed on a sheet of paper and should be no longer than 2-3 sentences in length.  Always pitch from the point of view of story’s protagonist.  All pitches are discussed for their viability as a motion picture, able to move and entertain audiences.  The most viable pitch presented by each writer will then be further developed with an eye to working up a strong narrative through-line, affecting characters, character arcs, subplot, and a sense of what writer’s story is about most, i.e. what the writer is trying to communicate most in telling the story being told.  The start of the workshop will commence with a brief lecture on screenwriting theory.  The goal of the workshop is to help inform, develop, support, and encourage the next works of each HBFF Storyteller finalist.


Speakers
avatar for Harrison Reiner

Harrison Reiner

Writer/Producer
HARRISON REINER works on staff in the Scripted Cable Series Division of CBS Television Studios.  He produced and co-wrote on AMAR A MORIR, a Spanish language film nominated for 7 Mexican Golden Globe Awards (las Diosas de Plata), awarded the Best Spanish Language Film Award at the... Read More →


Friday October 26, 2012 2:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 3

2:00pm PDT

Story Development Workshop For The 2012 HBFF Storyteller Semi-Finalists & Finalists (Part 1)

Open to 2012 HBFF Storyteller Semi-Finalists & Finalists only

In this intensive, two-day workshop, writers bring with them 3-5 pitches for potential, not-yet-written feature film projects.  Each pitch should be typed on a sheet of paper and should be no longer than 2-3 sentences in length.  Always pitch from the point of view of story’s protagonist.  All pitches are discussed for their viability as a motion picture, able to move and entertain audiences.  The most viable pitch presented by each writer will then be further developed with an eye to working up a strong narrative through-line, affecting characters, character arcs, subplot, and a sense of what writer’s story is about most, i.e. what the writer is trying to communicate most in telling the story being told.  The start of the workshop will commence with a brief lecture on screenwriting theory.  The goal of the workshop is to help inform, develop, support, and encourage the next works of each HBFF Storyteller finalist.


Speakers
avatar for Harrison Reiner

Harrison Reiner

Writer/Producer
HARRISON REINER works on staff in the Scripted Cable Series Division of CBS Television Studios.  He produced and co-wrote on AMAR A MORIR, a Spanish language film nominated for 7 Mexican Golden Globe Awards (las Diosas de Plata), awarded the Best Spanish Language Film Award at the... Read More →


Friday October 26, 2012 2:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 3

3:00pm PDT

Creating Content in Today's Multi-Platform Marketplace

This session will address the new landscape and opportunities facing content creators working across platforms in film, television and new media technologies.


Speakers
avatar for Aaron Bilgrad

Aaron Bilgrad

Director of Development, Endemol Digital Studios
Aaron Bilgrad is the Director of Development of Endemol Digital Studios.  Endemol is the world's largest independent production company, known primarily for their hit reality shows such as Wipeout, Deal or No Deal, Extreme Makeover:  Home Edition, and Big Brother.   He has created... Read More →
avatar for Dennis Dortch

Dennis Dortch

Filmmaker, BLACK&SEXY.TV
Dennis is a Sundance Film Festival 2008 Alumni and IFP Gotham Award nominee for Breakthrough Director for his feature film debut A GOOD DAY TO BE BLACK & SEXY. The film is distributed by Magnolia Pictures, licensed by Showtime and currently streaming on Netflix. As an entrepreneur... Read More →
avatar for Dave Mann

Dave Mann

VP of Business Development, Poptent Productions, Poptent
David Mann is the VP of Business Development at Poptent, the global leader in crowdsourced video. Poptent connects independent filmmakers with the world's biggest brands. Our video assignments have paid over $6 million to the Poptent community. Poptent producers can showcase their... Read More →
avatar for Rachael McLean

Rachael McLean

Digital Media Executive, JuntoBox Films
Rachael McLean is an accomplished digital media professional with over 12 years of global product development, strategy, marketing, social media and content experience across music, youth, video gaming and entertainment industries. Rachael was involved with several digital start-ups... Read More →


Friday October 26, 2012 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

3:30pm PDT

Versailles '73: American Runway Revolution

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Deborah Riley Draper

Exact Running Time - 91:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

Website: http://www.versailles73movie.com/

 

Synopsis:

In an era known for protests and sit-ins, the 1973 Grand Divertissement at Versailles made a statement of its own- a fashion statement. The legendary event pitting the five lions of French couture Givenchy, Dior, Ungaro, Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Cardin with five American designers Halston, Oscar de la Renta, Anne Klein, Stephen Burrows and Bill Blass created a cross-stitch of change across fashion, race, business and catwalks. When African American models Bethann Hardison, Pat Cleveland, Alva Chinn, Billie Blair, Norma Jean Darden, Barbara Jackson, Jennifer Brice, Romana Saunders and Amina Warsuma boarded the plane to Paris, they had no idea they would help change the course of fashion and pull off its biggest coup. Versailles '73: American Runway Revolution tells this story.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Deborah Riley Draper

Deborah Riley Draper

Vice President, BBDO
I am a veteran advertising agency account person and an award-winning documentary filmmakaer. I love the intersection of brand, storytelling and technology.



Friday October 26, 2012 3:30pm - 5:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

4:15pm PDT

How to Write a "Fundable" Business Plan SPONSORED BY STUDIO SYSTEM

If you're interested in finding financing your film, you've got to start with a business plan which connects the creative process and the business side of filmmaking.  In this workshop you will learn how to utilize tools and access the information needed to develop a business plan that can actually get your project funded.  From packaging your project with "marketable" talent and "saleabe" producing and production partners to providing "realistic" financial data and comparables, you will leave this workshop armed with all the information you need to show an investor who you are, where you are going, and how you are going to get there. 


Speakers
avatar for Alexa Amin

Alexa Amin

Executive Editor, Studio System News
Alexa Amin is Executive Editor of Studio System News, after having worked as a feature film studio executive since 1999. She most recently served as Vice President of Production at Sony Pictures Animation, where she shepherded OPEN SEASON 2, CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS, and... Read More →
TK

Tanya Kersey

Founder & Executive Director, Hollywood Black FIlm Festival
Tanya Kersey is probably best known as the Founder/Executive Director of the Hollywood Black Film Festival (HBFF), where she is responsible for the overall organization, management and administration of one of the leading black film festivals in the world. HBFF draws together established... Read More →
avatar for Bobby Mardis

Bobby Mardis

Filmmaker / Director, B. Story Pictures & Fat Chance Films
Bobby Mardis, is a Writer / Director / Producer and has been in the business of making films, media and music for over thirty years.  He is an award winning filmmaker with project aired from Showtime, comedy central, BET, straight to video and MTV. He has completed over three hundred... Read More →
avatar for Diane Panosian

Diane Panosian

Sales Coordinator, Studio System, Intelligence Divison
Diane Panosian joined Baseline as a sales coordinator for Studio System and has expanded her role to include the Intelligence Division.  As part of the Intelligence staff, Diane leverages her diverse entertainment experience and Baseline’s vast film data in consulting with filmmakers... Read More →
avatar for Anthony Pinga

Anthony Pinga

Account Executive, Baseline
Anthony Pinga oversees day-to-day operations of Baseline Intelligence as well as account management for The Studio System and syndication sales. With Baseline's 30+ year legacy of curating entertainment film and TV information, Anthony works closely with industry clients to build... Read More →


Friday October 26, 2012 4:15pm - 5:30pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028
  Infotainment Conference
  • SPONSORED BY STUDIO SYSTEM

5:00pm PDT

Dar He: The Lynching of Emmett Till

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Rob Underhill

Producer: Aravind Ragupathi

Producer: Mike Wiley

Exact Running Time - 70:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

Website:  http://www.DarHeMovie.com

 

Synopsis:

In an acting tour de force, one man performs 36 roles in the telling of the Emmett Till tragedy. In DAR HE: The Lynching of Emmett Till (6 Best Film Awards), experience the true story, trial, and unbelievable confessions of those accused of Emmett's murder in this riveting drama. 'His death was a spark that ignited the Civil Rights Movement in America,' Ed Bradley, Emmy Award-winning journalist. 'A masterful performance by Mike Wiley.'-20th Pan African Film Festival.



Friday October 26, 2012 5:00pm - 6:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

5:00pm PDT

HBFF Happy Hour

Mix * Mingle * Relax


Friday October 26, 2012 5:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
W Hotel 6250 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA

5:30pm PDT

Crowd Funding: How to Successfully Get Your Project Over the Finish Line

Via social media, Crowd Funding has emerged in recent years as the new alternative to traditional routes of funding.  Sites such as Kickstarter and Indiegogo have become the standard bearers for filmmakers seeking to raise money through the internet.  This panel will discuss how Crowd Funding works, advantages v. disadvantages, success v. failure stories, the JOBS Act and the ability to sell equity online after January 1, 2013.

 


Speakers
avatar for Paul Battista

Paul Battista

Entertainment Attorney, Law Office of Paul Battista
Paul Battista, Esq. is a Los Angeles entertainment attorney who has provided legal services to more than 125 feature film, documentary and television projects.  He has been a guest speaker at many film festivals and conferences, including Slamdance Film Festival and Film Independent’s... Read More →
avatar for Michael Blaha

Michael Blaha

Entertainment Attorney, Film and Stage Producer, Law Offices of Michael R. Blaha
MICHAEL R. BLAHA is an entertainment attorney and film and stage producer.   Mike’s film producing credits include the features Chi Girl, (Grand Jury Prize, Slamdance Film Festival), runt (Honorable Mention, Best New Director, L.A. Pan African Film Festival), Tropicalia (Best... Read More →
avatar for Tifanie Jodeh

Tifanie Jodeh

Co-Founder and Partner, Entertainment Law Partners
Tifanie Jodeh is a co-founder and partner at Entertainment Law Partners, where she represents many corporate clients and entrepreneurs as well as individual actors, performers, writers, directors, musicians, agents, PR agencies, managers, and producers in the corporate, business... Read More →
avatar for Numa Perrier

Numa Perrier

Artist, Actress, Producer, Black&Sexy.TV
Artist, actress, and producer, Numa Perrier is a principle partner at Black&Sexy.TV and co-star of their hit digital series The Couple.  Numa is also the co-creator of the new syndicated series Roomieloverfriends, in co-venture with Issa Rae. Recently she lead the Kickstarter campaign... Read More →
avatar for Jacques Thelemaque

Jacques Thelemaque

President, Filmmakers Alliance
Jacques is a writer, director and producer who, in 1993, co-founded Filmmakers Alliance, and in 2004, FA Productions, of which he is co-president. He was also the former Chief Community Officer at Withoutabox.com. Jacques has written and directed the short films “My Last Day... Read More →
avatar for Mychal Wilson

Mychal Wilson

Entertainment and Qui Tam Attorney, www.mychalwilsonesq.com
Mychal Wilson is both an Entertainment and Qui Tam attorney. Coupled with prior acting/producing experience and legal experience at Miramax Film Corporation and the Independent Film & Television Alliance (I.F.T.A.), Mychal starred/produced "The Gristle" which aired on HBO, Cinemax... Read More →


Friday October 26, 2012 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

6:30pm PDT

The Coalition

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Monica Mingo

Producer: Rich Volin

Exact Running Time - 98:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

Website: http://www.TeamSizzleWorldwide.com 

 

Synopsis:

The bad boys club is really not all that bad. Young, rich and handsome...the boys know how to have a good time. They love women, fast cars and doing whatever they want to do. There comes a time in life, however, when karma is helped along. When it's done by a group of scorned women...it can prove to be devastating.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Monica Mingo

Monica Mingo

Team Sizzle Films
At Team Sizzle, we love to entertain and films are our passion.


Friday October 26, 2012 6:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

8:30pm PDT

The Great Divide

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Ibrahim Yilla

Producers - Dan Garcia, Wendy Wiltz and Jason Hewitt

Writers - Jalene Mack & Gary B. Wilkins, Screenplay by Robert Irvin

Key Cast - Tichina Arnold, Darrin Dewitt-Henson, Richard T. Jones, Golden Brooks, Rocsi Diaz, Clyde Jones

Exact Running Time - 86:00

Country of Production - USA

View the TRAILER

Website: http://newkingdompictures.com/

 

Synopsis:

Tosha Landry, eccentric wife and nucleus of a circle of very ethnically diverse friends, is a student of the ancient Indian teachings of the Tantra and Kama Sutra.  One Friday evening at the monthly get-together, Tosha introduces a game designed to elicit feelings and impressions men and women have about each other. 

 


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist


Friday October 26, 2012 8:30pm - 10:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

9:00pm PDT

The Monster's Ball Masquerade Party

You Are Cordially Invited To The Monster's Ball Masquerade Party Friday, October 26th | From 9pm - 2am at Cafe Entourage Official After Party For The Hollywood Black Film Festival RSVP or VIP Table Reservation Required | Upscale Attire & Mask Requested | Costumes Optional For Mature Audiences Only | 21+

RSVP HERE to get your name on the LIST!


Friday October 26, 2012 9:00pm - Saturday October 27, 2012 2:00am PDT
Cafe Entourage 1600 Vine Street, Hollywood CA 90028
 
Saturday, October 27
 

9:00am PDT

Registration Opens

Registration will take place in the Great Room Foyer


Saturday October 27, 2012 9:00am - 7:00pm PDT
Great Room Foyer, W Hotel 6250 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood CA 90028

9:30am PDT

Master Class: Actors Edition (Part 1)

Joanne Baron (Part 1) 9:30-­‐10:30am

 Joanne Baron is known for her dedication to the work of Sanford Meisner and is a teacher of the Meisner Technique. She trained with Neighborhood Playhouse alum and master Meisner teacher, William Esper, who founded the MFA and BFA Professional Actor Training Programs at Rutgers University. Her past students include Halle Berry, Robin Wright, Mariska Hargetay, Patrick Dempsey, Leslie Mann, and directors Martha Coolidge and Tom Shadyac.

 

 


Speakers
avatar for Joanne Baron

Joanne Baron

Artistic Director, Joanne Baron/D.W. Brown Studio
Joanne Baron is an actress, producer, and the Artistic Director of the Joanne Baron/D.W. Brown Studio in Santa Monica, CA. Joanne studied the Meisner Technique under Sanford Meisner and William Esper in New York, who later trained Joanne to teach acting. Joanne is a highly regarded... Read More →
avatar for D.W. Brown

D.W. Brown

Co-Owner and Head Instructor, Joanne Baron/D.W. Brown Studio
D.W. Brown is the co-owner and head instructor of the Joanne Baron/D.W. Brown Studio. D.W. discovered a profound appreciation of the Mesiner Method after extensive training and he subsequently became an instructor. He has trained actors, writers, and directors for the past twenty... Read More →


Saturday October 27, 2012 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 3

10:00am PDT

Online Social Networking, Promotions & Building Audiences in Cyberspace

Presenter DMA/Donna Michelle Anderson will discuss how filmmakers, writers, directors, actors and other industry professionals can network online and promote their brand and build audiences online. Will talk about how to capitalize online at the click of a mouse. The Internet can help you generate word of mouth "buzz," promote your products and talents, and to build a world-wide audience and fan base.


Speakers
avatar for Donna Michelle Anderson

Donna Michelle Anderson

President, Planet DMA
For more than a decade, DMA (Donna Michelle Anderson) has been writing, producing and running top-rated television series for CBS, Bravo, BET, A&E, TLC and more. In 2007, she expanded into online and mobile, launching Columbia College Hollywood's new media department and creating... Read More →


Saturday October 27, 2012 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

10:30am PDT

Master Class: Actors Edition (Part 2)

Aaron Speiser (Part 2) 10:30-­‐11:30am

Aaron Speiser has been training and coaching actors for over 25 years. Working with the most acclaimed actors, directors, and producers in the industry, Mr. Speiser helps actors by bringing his vast experience and depth of knowledge of the craft of acting to his students in a simple, straightforward, practical and inspirational way. Aaron Speiser coaches Will Smith and Virginia Madsen, both of whom have recently been nominated for Academy Awards with Mr. Speiser’s help. He has also coached Jennifer Lopez from the beginning of her career. LL Cool J, Mandy Moore, The Rock (Dwayne Johnson), Brooke Shields, Jeff Foxworthy, Shanny Sossamon, Ashley Johnson, Shawn, Marlon, and Kim Wayans are some of the accomplished actors who round out the list. Working with such renowned directors as Oliver Stone, Michael Mann, F. Gary Gray, Adam Shankman, Wayne Wang, and Peter Berg to name a few, has enabled Mr. Speiser to bring the latest Film and Television techniques to his studio and clients.


Speakers
avatar for Aaron Speiser

Aaron Speiser

Acting Coach
Aaron Speiser has been training and coaching actors for over 25 years. Working with the most acclaimed actors, directors, and producers in the industry, Mr. Speiser helps actors by bringing his vast experience and depth of knowledge of the craft of acting to his students in a simple... Read More →


Saturday October 27, 2012 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 3

11:15am PDT

Master Class: Writers Edition

Television writer and producer Bentley Kyle Evans who has been behind the scenes of some of television’s most popular TV productions such as Martin, The Parkers, One On One, The Jamie Foxx Show and is currently the creator and executive producer of TV One's Love That Girl, will host our Master Class for Writers. Bentley will share insight into the television writing, producing & development process, and hopefully demystify what it takes to turn a good idea into a great television show. There may also be surprise visits from celebrity guests.


Speakers

Saturday October 27, 2012 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

12:00pm PDT

Elegy for a Revolutionary (Scheduler's Choice)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Paul van Zyl

Producer: Stacy Ekstein

Exact Running Time - 22:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

Website: http://www.elegy-movie.com

 

Synopsis:

Two friends oppose the apartheid-era government in South Africa. Their choice to use violence tears their relationship apart.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Paul van Zyl

Paul van Zyl

Self
I might write a name, describe the color of my eyes, but I am none of these things. I am invisible activities. I am an inexhaustible source of existence. I don't sit on the bench. I'm a true, active, full of action player. I am soul purpose. The shots you don't take you miss 100-percent... Read More →



Saturday October 27, 2012 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

12:00pm PDT

Operation: CTF (Scheduler's Choice)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Writer/Director/Executive Producer - Denzel Whitaker

Executive Producer/Writer - Barnaby Barrilla

Producer: Kasey Shirk

Exact Running Time - 8:00

Country of Production - U S A

 

Synopsis:

Operation: CTF is about a futuristic, weapon-based game of Capture the Flag, following four combative team members through a maze-structured warehouse in effort to complete their objective and win the game


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Barnaby Barrilla

Barnaby Barrilla

Mononoke Entertainment
Born in NY, did time in Kentucky, Hustlin in Hollywood



Saturday October 27, 2012 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

12:00pm PDT

Seafood Tester (Scheduler's Choice)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director - Darious Britt

Exact Running Time - 9:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

 

Synopsis:

A son is tired of bailing his mother out of trouble. In order to save her from herself, he must resort to extreme measures to confront her with the truth.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Darious Britt

Darious Britt

Writer, Director, Producer, Actor
I love storytelling. The process of taking an audience on a journey that's both emotionally engaging and entertaining is my life's passion. Ultimately filmmaking is just another form of communication; communication of beliefs ideas, emotions and abstractions. The films that ignited... Read More →


Saturday October 27, 2012 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

12:00pm PDT

The Bubble Gum Hit (Scheduler's Choice)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director - Eric Richardson-Hagans

Producer: Michael Francis

Exact Running Time - 22:00

Country of Production - U S A

Website: http://thebubblegumhit.com/ 

 

Synopsis:

A hired female assassin, with a impulsive fetish for the kill, becomes entangled between the target and the people that hired her to complete the hit.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist

Saturday October 27, 2012 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

12:00pm PDT

What About Us (Scheduler's Choice)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Deatra Harris

Producer: Bryan Johnson

Exact Running Time - 20:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

Website: http://www.whataboutus-themovie.com

 

Synopsis:

A family desperate to find their missing daughter soon realize their daughter's significance in society is based on their social and economic status.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Deatra Harris

Deatra Harris

Partner, Visigoth Pictures
Great love and great achievements involve great risk..



Saturday October 27, 2012 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

12:00pm PDT

Story Development Workshop For The 2012 HBFF Storyteller Semi-Finalists & Finalists (Part 2)

Open to 2012 HBFF Storyteller Semi-Finalists & Finalists only

In this intensive, two-day workshop, writers bring with them 3-5 pitches for potential, not-yet-written feature film projects.  Each pitch should be typed on a sheet of paper and should be no longer than 2-3 sentences in length.  Always pitch from the point of view of story’s protagonist.  All pitches are discussed for their viability as a motion picture, able to move and entertain audiences.  The most viable pitch presented by each writer will then be further developed with an eye to working up a strong narrative through-line, affecting characters, character arcs, subplot, and a sense of what writer’s story is about most, i.e. what the writer is trying to communicate most in telling the story being told.  The start of the workshop will commence with a brief lecture on screenwriting theory.  The goal of the workshop is to help inform, develop, support, and encourage the next works of each HBFF Storyteller finalist.


Speakers
avatar for Harrison Reiner

Harrison Reiner

Writer/Producer
HARRISON REINER works on staff in the Scripted Cable Series Division of CBS Television Studios.  He produced and co-wrote on AMAR A MORIR, a Spanish language film nominated for 7 Mexican Golden Globe Awards (las Diosas de Plata), awarded the Best Spanish Language Film Award at the... Read More →


Saturday October 27, 2012 12:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 3

12:30pm PDT

Hollywood's Top Guns: The Truth about Packaging, Negotiating & Dealmaking

A panel of agents and managers discuss what they look for in taking on a new client, and how to get in front of agents and managers and be taken seriously.


Speakers
avatar for Brian Dobbins

Brian Dobbins

Partner, Principato-Young
As the grandson of a sharecropper and a kid growing up in Long Beach, Principato-Young partner Brian Dobbins was more than a freeway trip away from Hollywood. "I was the first person in my family to attend university, so a lot of expectations went along with that," he reflects. At... Read More →
avatar for Matt Johnson, Esq.

Matt Johnson, Esq.

Managing Partner, Ziffren Brittenham, LLP
Matt Johnson is the managing partner of Ziffren Brittenham, LLP. He has an extensive film and television practice, representing some of the most recognizable on-camera talent today as well as many renowned film and television producers, directors and writers. He also represents... Read More →
avatar for Billy Hawkins

Billy Hawkins

Motion Picture Literary Agent, Creative Artists Agency (CAA)
Billy Hawkins is a Motion Picture Literary agent at Creative Artists Agency (CAA), an entertainment and sports agency based in Los Angeles with offices in New York, London, Nashville, and Beijing. Hawkins works in the Los Angeles office and represents many of the world’s leading... Read More →
avatar for Jelani Johnson

Jelani Johnson

Talent Manager, Generate
Jelani Johnson is a talent manager at the Santa Monica based management company Generate. After briefly working at the Creative Artists Agency, Johnson transitioned to management in 2010. His client list includes actors, comedians, writers and directors.  In addition to his work... Read More →
avatar for Dana Sims

Dana Sims

Talent Agent, ICM
Dana Sims began her career at the prestigious William Morris Agency where she was quickly promoted to talent agent. Her passion for music came out of the urban arena and she served as vice president for four years. During this time her clients included Ludacris, Rihanna, Jill... Read More →
avatar for Darryl Taja

Darryl Taja

President, Epidemic Pictures and Management
Mr. Taja is the true definition of entrepreneur. At the age of 19, he began his career working as a music promoter while studying finance at Howard University, where he promoted over 75 concerts including, “The Budweiser Superfest”, with capacity crowds ranging from 2500 to 10,000... Read More →


Saturday October 27, 2012 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

1:30pm PDT

A Difficult Thank You (Programmer's Choice)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Edrei Hutson

Producer: J'Vanne Yancy

Exact Running Time - 14:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

 

Synopsis:

A mother and father are devastated to find out that their recently deceased daughter signed up to be an organ donor without their knowing. The family is divided as the father and two remaining daughters find comfort in corresponding with the organ recipients, while the mother sees the correspondence as a betrayal.


Saturday October 27, 2012 1:30pm - 3:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

1:30pm PDT

Animal Control (Programmer's Choice)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director - Brian Shackelford

Producer - Joyce Fitzpatrick

Exact Running Time - 16:00

Country of Production - U S A

 

Synopsis:

'Animal Control' is an outrageously funny, over-the-top mock reality show that pulls the veil off of reality television and shows exactly how these pieces of crap get made! Down and out Hollywood producer Allen Davies owes a lot of people money. After the unsuccessful attempts of his last few projects, let's just say finding work has been pretty slow. That is, until foreign investors hire Allen to produce a new reality show for American television.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist

Saturday October 27, 2012 1:30pm - 3:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

1:30pm PDT

Junior (Programmer's Choice)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Jeffrey Elmont

Producers - Bryan Smiley, Christina Northup, Marcus Dúpree

Exact Running Time - 11:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

 

Synopsis:

Seven years after a police raid gone wrong, a detective is confronted with the consequence of his past mistake.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist


Saturday October 27, 2012 1:30pm - 3:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

1:30pm PDT

Saudade (Programmer's Choice)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Evita Castine

Producer: Wentao Wang

Exact Running Time - 6:00

Country of Production - U S A

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaudadeTheMovie

 

Synopsis:

James, lynched at the turn of the century, seeks his bride Sarah, whom he stumbles across in the present day. Dead set on having her see him, he haunts her, but it brings unexpected results.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Evita Castine

Evita Castine

Actor/Writer/Director/Production Designer, USC School of Cinema - M.F.A. Candidate
Cinema Verite, Existential Film, Post Modernism I'm an actor, writer, director and designer. I'm really passionate about poetic cinema and production design. Some of the designers I really love are Victoria Paul, Sarah Greenwood, and Kristi Zea! Some of the directors that have inspired... Read More →



Saturday October 27, 2012 1:30pm - 3:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

1:30pm PDT

Stare Straight Crew (Programmer's Choice)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Paul Aspuria

Writer - Juan Sotelo

Producers - Juan Sotelo, Raymund Aranda

Principal Cast - James Davis, Jr.; Raymund Aranda; and Vivian Yeung

Exact Running Time - 7:00

Country of Production - U S A

 

Synopsis:

An inside look at the wacky world of rival Staring champions as they train for the next World Championship and the affection of their Master guru.



Saturday October 27, 2012 1:30pm - 3:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

1:30pm PDT

The Death of a Prince (Programmer's Choice)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - A.R. Hilton

Producer: Joseph Francis

Exact Running Time - 24:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

 

Synopsis:

When a troubled teen stumbles upon an ancient book he is confronted with his past, present and future through the life and death of a young African Prince. Now he must take actions to alter his fate or succumb to the same fate as the prince before him.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for A. R. Hilton

A. R. Hilton

Writer/Director/Founding Partner, Amirah Films
I was first introduced to writing at the age of 13 as a reporter for the local Urban League’s summer youth jobs program in my hometown of Mount Vernon, New York. Now some twenty years later, I am the author of two novels, “That Life” and “Prophecy of A Hustler II”. Never... Read More →



Saturday October 27, 2012 1:30pm - 3:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

1:45pm PDT

The Business of Acting

Actors discuss their films and careers, the industry, and the building blocks needed to successfully develop an acting career.


Speakers
avatar for Jacque Cofer

Jacque Cofer

CEO, Executive Producer, Cofer Entertainment Group
Jacque Edmonds Cofer is a native of Cleveland, Ohio. She attended Princeton University, graduating with an A.B. in Politics, with certificates awarded in Urban Studies, Political Economy, and African-American Studies.  She then worked for the Chase Manhattan Bank as a Trust Administrator... Read More →
avatar for Anna Marie Horsford

Anna Marie Horsford

Actress
What common thread do directors Steven Spielberg, Woody Allen, Alan Pacula and actors Meryl Streep, Harrison Ford, Samuel L. Jackson, Forrest Whitaker, Tom Cruise, Eddie Murphy, Morgan Freeman, Ice Cube, Christopher Reeve, Lucille Ball, Lauren Bacall and Mickey Rooney share?  They... Read More →
avatar for Christian Keyes

Christian Keyes

Actor
Christian Keyes was born in Detroit, Mich.  He is a humble, hardworking and driven young man. An experienced actor and singer, he was labeled by Tyler Perry as “One of the most consistent male actors I’ve worked with." Christian has done more than 40 stage productions and more... Read More →
avatar for Dondre Whitfield

Dondre Whitfield

Actor
Whitfield attended the Performing Arts High School in New York City, New York. He was featured on the sitcom The Cosby Show as Robert Foreman (the love interest of Tempestt Bledsoe's character Vanessa Huxtable). Since then, he has appeared in many television series, includi... Read More →
avatar for Kym Whitley

Kym Whitley

Actress
Born in Khartoum, Sudan, raised in Cleveland, Ohio, and introduced to the world by Hollywood, California, Whitley became a staple on television, guest starring on such popular programs as "Grey's Anatomy," "Curb Your Enthusiasm," "That's So Raven," "My Wife and Kids," "The Boondocks... Read More →


Saturday October 27, 2012 1:45pm - 2:45pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

2:45pm PDT

Master Class: Producers Roundtable - Film

All projects face the same basic challenges – from developing material, finding the money, building strong collaborative teams, and ultimately, taking the project from script to screen. This is a roundtable discussion with seasoned and successful film and television producers and production executives who share their experience and offer concrete advice on producing for film.


Speakers
avatar for N.D. Brown

N.D. Brown

Chairperson and CEO, Tri Destined Studios
As Chairperson and CEO of Tri Destined Studios, N.D. Brown oversees business and legal affairs, corporate structure and strategic planning, and green-lights projects for Tri Destined Studios (founded in 1998) and its subsidiary companies. Ms. Brown has produced over 100 multimedia... Read More →
avatar for Ryan Jones

Ryan Jones

Director of Production, Morgan Creek Productions
Morgan Creek Productions is an American film studio that has released box-office hits like Young Guns, Dead Ringers, Major League, True Romance, Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, The King and I, The Crush, and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, and others. The studio was co-founded in 1988... Read More →
avatar for Niija Kuykendall

Niija Kuykendall

VP, Production, Warner Bros. Pictures
Niija Kuykendall is a Vice President of Production at Warner Bros. Pictures where she has worked on movies such as CONTAGION, DARK SHADOWS, MAGIC MIKE as well as the upcoming ARGO and GANGSTER SQUAD.  Upon graduating from Brown University in Providence, RI with a BA in Anthropology... Read More →
avatar for James Lopez

James Lopez

Senior Vice President, Production, Screen Gems
James Lopez joined Screen Gems as a senior vice president of production in July 2010. His focus is being a conduit between film, music and youth culture by utilizing his previous experiences and applying them to the production process of projects currently being developed at... Read More →


Saturday October 27, 2012 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

3:00pm PDT

Even Me (50 Shades)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director - Megan Ebor

Exact Running Time - 24:00

Country of Production - U S A

Website/Trailer - http://www.evenmefilm.com/

 

Synopsis:

Even Me confronts the overwhelming crisis of HIV/AIDS among older adults 50+. Defying the myth that HIV/AIDS is a gay or young person's disease, this revealing documentary depicts the devastating impact of this epidemic on the heterosexual, older adult population and communities of color. These brave men and women speak candidly about their experiences, sexual history, HIV status, and help to uncover the misconceptions about aging, sexuality and HIV/AIDS.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Megan Ebor, MSW

Megan Ebor, MSW

Director, Producer, Writer
I am passionate about addressing social justice issues through documentary filmmaking. Utilizing film as a social change agent and bringing awareness to the issues that impact ethnic minorities, women, and the older adult population is my lifes work.



Saturday October 27, 2012 3:00pm - 4:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

3:00pm PDT

How Tiger Can Get His Swag Back (50 Shades)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Xl Greene

Producer - Michael Watkins

Exact Running Time -6:00

Country of Production - U S A

Website/Trailer - http://www.djdog.tv/

 

Synopsis:

With the help of the mystical Brotha Vance, Tiger Woods embraces his African-American heritage to make a comeback and win the heart of the ultimate sista--Michelle Minaj


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist

Saturday October 27, 2012 3:00pm - 4:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

3:00pm PDT

The Last/First Kiss (50 Shades)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director - Andrea Ashton

Producer - Andrew Stoneham

Exact Running Time -16:00

Country of Production - U S A

 

Synopsis:

Two twenty-something strangers accidentally encounter one another in a park and forge an unexpected connection. Following which a spontaneous but yet short lived romance develops between the two.


Saturday October 27, 2012 3:00pm - 4:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

3:00pm PDT

The Ultimate Wingman (50 Shades)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Directors - Sedric Veal, Jorge Sanchez

Producers - Carl Herard, Lanre Idewu, Tobijah Tyler

Exact Running Time -13:00

Country of Production - U S A

 

Synopsis:

Is true love escaping you? Has the love of your life passed you by because you couldn't get past her nagging friends? Well suffer no more, 'the Ultimate Wingmen' are here. No situation is too tough for the Ultimate Wingmen. This fearless, secretive, private, group of men are on call 24/7 to step in and interfere, occupy, or remove nagging friends so that hopeful men can meet their possible wives. But can they ultimately help their own founder Cain find true love? Time will tell, but the Ultimate Wingmen are here to stay!


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist

Saturday October 27, 2012 3:00pm - 4:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

3:00pm PDT

White Space (50 Shades)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Maya Washington

Producers - Freddy F. Hakimi, Samantha Manalang

Exact Running Time -9:00

Country of Production - U S A

Website/Trailer - http://whitespacepoetry.blogspot.com/

 

Synopsis:

White Space follows the inner life of a deaf performance poet as he makes his debut at an open-mic night for a hearing audience. Can the language of the heart emancipate the inner voice, transcending the white space between a hearing audience and a deaf man's soul?


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Maya Washington

Maya Washington

Writer/Director, White Space
With our film, White Space, we are using poetry and film to expose audiences to the beauty of ASL (American Sign Language). In addition to festival screenings, our parent organization, White Space Poetry Project, offers live poetry performances, readings and writing workshops for... Read More →


Saturday October 27, 2012 3:00pm - 4:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

4:00pm PDT

Master Class: Producers Roundtable - TV

All projects face the same basic challenges – from developing material, finding the money, building strong collaborative teams, and ultimately, taking the project from script to screen. This is a roundtable discussion with seasoned and successful film and television producers and production executives who share their experience and offer concrete advice on producing for television.

 


Speakers
avatar for Traci Lynn Blackwell

Traci Lynn Blackwell

Vice President of Current Programs, The CW Network
As Vice President of Current Programs at The CW Network, rising executive star Traci Lynn Blackwell is among the top African American programming executives in broadcast television and definitely one to watch.  Traci oversees the day-to-day production of some of the most buzzed-about... Read More →
avatar for Chika Chukudebelu

Chika Chukudebelu

BET Networks
Chika Chukudebelu works in Original Programming at BET Networks. Since joining the company in 2009, she has been a part of the team that has brought scripted programming to the network. Her projects include THE GAME, which in January of 2011 debuted as the #1 ad-supported scripted... Read More →
avatar for Debra Curtis

Debra Curtis

Senior Vice President of Current Programming, eOne Television
Debra Curtis is Senior Vice President of Current Programming at eOne Television. In her position, Curtis oversees all aspects of eOne’s current programming activities for the group’s slate, including Hell on Wheels (AMC), Rookie Blue (ABC and Shaw), Haven (SyFy), Call... Read More →
avatar for Charles Murray

Charles Murray

Writer
Murray has worked with TV heavyweights like David Milch (Deadwood, NYPD Blue) and John Wells (ER, Third Watch), and his recent foray into features is a natural extension of his ability to tell and share the best stories he can, on platforms his audience habitually and consistently... Read More →


Saturday October 27, 2012 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

4:30pm PDT

Operation Home Front (Black Men in Film)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director - Donre Walker

Producer - Joanna Ellenbeck

Exact Running Time -20:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

 

Synopsis:

A team of military soldiers partner with state officials, to deal with social issues of returning troops from combat.They partner together and search for one individual to join their ranks. One interviewee has a dark secret that both defines her need to be on the team, but the horrors of war the team must face as a whole.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Donre Walker

Donre Walker

Director, Reklaw Productions
As a two time Iraqi-Freedom Veteran, I am passionate about making films that tell real stories.


Saturday October 27, 2012 4:30pm - 6:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

4:30pm PDT

Peace on the Streets (Black Men in Film)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director - Bobby Mardis

Music Producer - Cholly J

Writer - Cholly J, Stephen Ashford & Bobby Mardis

Exact Running Time - 6:00

Country of Production - USA

Website: http://brotha2brotha.com/

 

Synopsis:

Young Black men in major metropolitan cities all around America are dying.  Rappers from the San Francisco Bay Area have gotten together to express the issue via this music video.  “Peace on the Streets” is a part of a film called "Black Male: An Endangered Species" which is an electrifying doc geared to address this issue and offer some solutions from felons, hit men, the Clergy, educators, crack heads, Bangers, community leaders and politicians.


Speakers
avatar for Bobby Mardis

Bobby Mardis

Filmmaker / Director, B. Story Pictures & Fat Chance Films
Bobby Mardis, is a Writer / Director / Producer and has been in the business of making films, media and music for over thirty years.  He is an award winning filmmaker with project aired from Showtime, comedy central, BET, straight to video and MTV. He has completed over three hundred... Read More →



Saturday October 27, 2012 4:30pm - 6:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

4:30pm PDT

The Extortionist (Black Men in Film)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director/Writer - Logan Williams

Exact Running Time -10:00

Country of Production - U S A

 

Synopsis:

When a depressed and introverted man comes home to his happy son, he has to recount the tales of the past in which an extortionist controlled his life.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist


Saturday October 27, 2012 4:30pm - 6:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

4:30pm PDT

The Gift (Black Men in Film)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director/Writer - Harold Jackson III

Exact Running Time -16:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

 

Synopsis:

Best Selling Author Ezekiel Anderson is at a spiritual crossroads that is costing him his marriage. On the brink of divorce, a divine intervention hopes to remind Ezekiel of life's true gifts.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist

Saturday October 27, 2012 4:30pm - 6:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

4:30pm PDT

They Lost It (Black Men in Film)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director/Writer - Harrell D. Williams, Sr.

Exact Running Time -28:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

 

Synopsis:

A young man is upset that his father is set to re-marry. To stop the father from making what he thinks is a big mistake the young man devises a devastating plan which backfires.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist

Saturday October 27, 2012 4:30pm - 6:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

5:00pm PDT

HBFF Happy Hour

Mix * Mingle * Relax


Saturday October 27, 2012 5:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
W Hotel 6250 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA

5:15pm PDT

Monologue Slam W/Twinkie Byrd and Celebrity Friends

Actors will have a chance to show off their acting skills by performing a 1-minute monologue of their choice in front of a panel of judges. The panel will offer feedback to the actor and give them notes on improving their audition. Actors should treat this like an audition. Must bring your own monologues. Led by Celebrity Casting Director, Tracy "Twinkie" Byrd of In the Twink of an Eye Casting (Sparkle, Jumping the Broom, Notorious).

Separate MONOLOGUE SLAM REGISTRATION required to audition. Register early, limited to 20 auditions. $30 fee to audition.  All festival-goers are welcome to watch for free.

Follow Twinkie’s Blog: Twinkie Is Casting


Speakers
avatar for Tracy

Tracy "Twinkie" Byrd

Casting Director, In the Twink of an Eye Casting
avatar for Omari Hardwick

Omari Hardwick

Actor
Omari Hardwick has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry with the passionate and moving characters he has brought to life in film, and on television. Hardwick can next be seen starring in the highly anticipated, TriStar Pictures film SPARKLE as “Levi,” opposite... Read More →
avatar for Erica Hubbard

Erica Hubbard

Actress
Erica Hubbard is a film and television actress and model. Born and raised on the Southside of Chicago, Erica knew at the early age of nine that she wanted to be an actress after she performed in her first stage play. She has appeared in the films Simon Says, Akeelah and the Bee... Read More →
avatar for Naturi Naughton

Naturi Naughton

Actress
Naturi Naughton is a Singer-Songwriter, Rapper and Actress. Naughton is formerly one-third of the R&B trio 3LW and is perhaps best known for her roles on Fame, Notorious and The Playboy Club.
avatar for Kym Whitley

Kym Whitley

Actress
Born in Khartoum, Sudan, raised in Cleveland, Ohio, and introduced to the world by Hollywood, California, Whitley became a staple on television, guest starring on such popular programs as "Grey's Anatomy," "Curb Your Enthusiasm," "That's So Raven," "My Wife and Kids," "The Boondocks... Read More →



Saturday October 27, 2012 5:15pm - 7:00pm PDT
W Hotel, Great Room 1 & 2 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

6:00pm PDT

The Eugenist

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director/Writer - Tariq Nasheed

Writer - Aaron Strongoni

Exact Running Time -72:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

 

Synopsis:

The Eugenist is a feature length horror film from director and author Tariq Nasheed following a group of college students who discover strange activities going on in a mysterious abandoned school.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Tariq Nasheed

Tariq Nasheed

Filmmaker, King Flex Entertainment


Saturday October 27, 2012 6:00pm - 7:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

7:30pm PDT

Storyteller Competition Live Staged Reading SPONSORED BY BAISDEN FILMWORKS

This is always a SRO event. This year you have to pre-register to secure your seat! Admission is FREE if you pre-register. On-site registration is $30 if you don't pre-register before midnight on Oct. 26th.  PRE-REGISTER HERE!

Live staged reading of the 3 finalist scripts in the Hollywood Black Film Festival's Storyteller Competition. Presented by Michael Baisden, the readings will be directed and cast by veteran stage director/writer/producer Don Welch ("The Bachelor Party" and "The BacheloretteParty"). SPONSORED BY BAISDEN FILMWORKS

 

Starring...

Kenny Lattimore
Keith Burke
Jermaine Jacox
Alexia Peebles
Danny Delloyd
Sy Richardson Roger Payano
Marvin Gay
Adenrele Ojo-Allen

 

Performing scenes from the HBFF Storyteller Competition finalist scripts:

Blu's Country by Corey Moore

Six Figures by Regina Junior

Raped by Malcolm Rector

The Puppy Cure (honorable mention) by Michael & Sherry Compton

  


Speakers
avatar for Michael Baisden

Michael Baisden

Nationally Syndicated Radio Personality
Michael Baisden is undeniably one of the most influential and engaging personalities in radio history.  His meteoric rise to #1 is redefining radio with the numbers to back it up.  The show is syndicated by Cumulus Media and is heard in over 78 markets nationwide with over 8 million... Read More →
avatar for Don B. Welch

Don B. Welch

CEO/Founder, Don B. Welch Productions
Writer/Director/Producer/Author Don B. Welch passionately loves the Arts. Theater, Film Television, all play some part in the daily life of this up and coming industry mogul. He is the Writer and Director of over 19 stage productions, most notably, The Bachelorette Party, My Brothers... Read More →

Sponsors


Saturday October 27, 2012 7:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Great Room, W Hotel 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
  Special Event
  • SPONSORED BY BAISDEN FILMWORKS

8:00pm PDT

Against the Grain

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director/Writer - Elias Mael

Executive Producer - Mayon Denton

Exact Running Time -87:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

 

Synopsis:

Isaiah Johnson, an inner-city kid from Oakland, California, has an opportunity to attend an elite University. In his first year of college, he struggles to maintain his grades, attempts to remain loyal to his troubled childhood friends, and valiantly tries to capture the heart of his dream-girl. But when he arrives at a crossroad, he's forced to choose between his past and his future.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Elias Mael

Elias Mael

Director/Writer, UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television
Elias Mael honed his storytelling skills at the prestigious UCLA school of Theater, Film, and Television where he concentrated in directing/screenwriting. While in the program he directed numerous short films that gained notice among the faculty, in particular his thesis film, “They... Read More →


Saturday October 27, 2012 8:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

10:00pm PDT

"You're on your own!"

You're on your own to explore the sights and sounds of Hollywood! PLAY SAFELY!


Saturday October 27, 2012 10:00pm - Sunday October 28, 2012 2:00am PDT
Hollywood
 
Sunday, October 28
 

10:00am PDT

Registration Opens

Registration will take place in the Great Room Foyer.


Sunday October 28, 2012 10:00am - 2:00pm PDT
Great Room Foyer, W Hotel 6250 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood CA 90028

11:30am PDT

Faith in Film: A Conversation with DeVon Franklin SPONSORED BY WELLS FARGO

Thanks to the generous support of WELLS FARGO, admission to this event is FREE if you pre-register. Seating is limited so pre-register early at  http://hbff2012-faith-in-film-with-devon-franklin.eventbrite.com.

 You’ve seen him on “Super Soul Sunday” with Oprah Winfrey, now producer and preacher Devon Franklin takes centerstage at the Hollywood Black Film Festival in “Faith in Film: A Conversation with Devon Franklin.”

Ten years ago Devon started in the business as an assistant and today he is a rarity: an African-American studio executive at the forefront of Hollywood. He currently serves as Vice President of Production for Columbia Pictures, a division of Sony Pictures Entertainment where he oversaw the remake of one of the summer's biggest hits, The Karate Kid, starring Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith, which grossed over $350 million worldwide. He also worked on The Pursuit of Happyness and Hancock starring Will Smith, the faith-based hit Not Easily Broken, produced by Bishop T. D. Jakes,the romantic comedy, Jumping the Broom starring Angela Bassett and Paula Patton, and the musical drama Sparkle, starring Jordin Sparks and the late Whitney Houston.


In this up-and-close and personal conversation, Devon sits down with Tanya Kersey, HBFF Founder/Executive Director to discuss Faith in Films, the secret to successfully balancing life in Hollywood and faith.  Following the discussion, Devon will be signing copies of his book, Produced by Faith.  

Thanks to the generous support of WELLS FARGO, admission to this event is FREE if you pre-register. Seating is limited so pre-register early at  http://hbff2012-faith-in-film-with-devon-franklin.eventbrite.com.

 



Speakers
avatar for DeVon Franklin

DeVon Franklin

Vice President, Production, Columbia Pictures/Sony
DeVon Franklin is a rarity: an African-American studio executive at the forefront of Hollywood. He currently serves as Vice President of Production for Columbia Pictures, a division of Sony Pictures Entertainment where he oversaw the remake of one of the summer's biggest hits, The... Read More →
TK

Tanya Kersey

Founder & Executive Director, Hollywood Black FIlm Festival
Tanya Kersey is probably best known as the Founder/Executive Director of the Hollywood Black Film Festival (HBFF), where she is responsible for the overall organization, management and administration of one of the leading black film festivals in the world. HBFF draws together established... Read More →


Sunday October 28, 2012 11:30am - 1:00pm PDT
Great Room, W Hotel 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028

11:30am PDT

Barbasol (Students & Shorts)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director/Executive Producer - Ralph K. Scott

Writer/Producer - Kiara C. Jones 

Exact Running Time - 20:00

Country of Production - USA

View the TRAILER

Website: http://www.socialcinemaproject.com/

 

Synopsis:

A story about a man that desires a bond with his elderly father.  He realizes that he is running out of time due to his father slipping further into dementia..  What he comes to realize is he needs to now turn his attention toward his own son.

 


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Ralph Scott

Ralph Scott

Independent Film Promoter, Social Cinema
Supporting short and independent film has been my passion for many years. I finally joined the ranks of being a filmmaker with my first short film - Barbasol. My company, Social Cinema is dedicated to showcase films that express a social issue to help spread aware... Read More →



Sunday October 28, 2012 11:30am - 1:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

11:30am PDT

Malachi IX (Students & Shorts)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Writer/Director - Marquette Williams

Producers - Desi Green & Moni Boyce

Exact Running Time - 20:00

Country of Production - USA

View the TRAILER

 

Synopsis:

Set in the dark futuristic world of Pearl City year 2040, “MALACHI IX” is a sci-fi supernatural drama about an alcoholic priest consumed with rage who struggles with the vow he has made to protect the city from vicious vampires and his lack of faith in the human race. His commitment is tainted by the breach of the blood source treaty, made 900 years ago, between the two governing bodies, the Holy Order Church and the Royal Republic of the Vicoy, inciting vampires to attack and leaving Malachi IX with no choice but to resentfully fulfill his commitment. Unfortunately, his crimes negligently executed push Daren Corbet, an arrogant but brilliant detective, to involve Malachi IX in his investigation to find the murderer. Daren’s only clue has been a list of seven names! Six of which are already dead… The seventh, Katlin Stone, is the name of a beautiful mysterious blood lab scientist, who he believes will be the next victim of the serial killer. Will he realize in time that “MALACHI IX” is the killer he desperately wants to catch?



Sunday October 28, 2012 11:30am - 1:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

11:30am PDT

A Tar Baby is Born (Students & Shorts)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director/Writer - Theron Smith

Exact Running Time -3:00

Country of Production - U S A

 

Synopsis:

The popular stories featuring the trickster Brer Rabbit can be traced back to the oral storytelling tradition of African slaves who brought this device to the plantation. Upon hearing these stories while working as a newspaper apprentice on the plantation, a white journalist by the name of Joel Chandler Harris became so fascinated that he adapted and compiled them in book form in 1881, creating the fictional character Uncle Remus to narrate the stories. In the film, the character of Brer Rabbit is portrayed by Craig, and Brer Wolf is played by Gregory. The original title is A Tar Baby is Born. The plot is the same, but I adapted my own script with a rhyming theme.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist

Sunday October 28, 2012 11:30am - 1:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

11:30am PDT

Astorgos (Students & Shorts)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director - Solomon Onita Jr.

Exact Running Time -13:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

 

Synopsis:

When a rumor sprouts up questioning Matthew's little brother Nathaniel's sexuality, Matthew is faced with the choice of either accepting Nathaniel for whom he is or breaking the bond of their relationship forever.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist


Sunday October 28, 2012 11:30am - 1:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

11:30am PDT

Why Do You Have Black Dolls? (Students & Shorts)

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producer/Director - Samantha Knowles

Exact Running Time -25:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/whydoyouhaveblackdolls

 

Synopsis:

'Why Do You Have Black Dolls?' is a documentary that explores the history, beauty, and pride that is the black doll. Through its characters it reveals that the black doll is more than a plaything; it is a cultural artifact that represents the history of the people it depicts.


Sunday October 28, 2012 11:30am - 1:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

1:30pm PDT

2012 HBFF Pitchathon

Presented by Mozell Entertainment Group

A panel of seasoned writers, producers and executives discuss how to craft a compelling pitch in 30-60 seconds, how to excite and entice your listener in order to get them to want to read your script, and more. Reserve your spot to pitch your project and receive feedback from the panel on how to make the pitch more sellable. 

Separate PITCHATHON REGISTRATION required to pitch. Festival attendees are welcome to come and watch for free.  LIMITED to 20 PITCHES. $30 Pitch Fee.

 

The Winner of the Pitchathon receives the following:

-MOZELL ENTERTAINMENT GROUP will present a private reading of the script at 1010 Wilshire in front of a host of celebrity and high level guests (but it has to be cast by the writer).
 
-MOZELL ENTERTAINMENT GROUP will give the writer $250 to help produce the reading.
 
-The reading will take place before December 1, 2012.


Speakers
avatar for Jeff Byrd

Jeff Byrd

Director, Feather Films
avatar for Devorah Cutler-Rubenstein

Devorah Cutler-Rubenstein

President, Noble House Entertainment
“Devo” Cutler-Rubenstein was Director of Literary Affairs for Columbia Pictures Television and Exec Produced the feature film THE SUBSTITUTE starring Tom Berenger and HBO’S SUBSTITUTE 2 starring Treat Williams. She’s currently in negotiations to reboot the franchise for Sub... Read More →
avatar for Richard Willis, Jr.

Richard Willis, Jr.

CEO & EXECUTIVE PRODUCER, MOZELL Entertainment Group
MOZELL Entertainment Group, a development and production company, continues to accomplish exciting ventures! Movies, television, Theatre and Music, Modeling, Management. MOZELL has achieved success in all arenas of entertainment since 1998. By juxtaposing our development expertise... Read More →
MR

Mike Regen

Senior Vice President of Acquisitions, RBC Film Group
As Senior Vice President of Acquisitions at RBC Film Group, Mike Regen wearsmultiple hats that give him a unique perspective on the process ofacquiring, producing and marketing films. RBC Film Group is distributed byEntertainment One and is a new entity of RBC Records which is one... Read More →
avatar for Chay Alexander Wright

Chay Alexander Wright

Owner/President, look alike productions, LLC
Under his company, look alike productions, LLC, Chay has worked as a songwriter/producer/engineer with a host of artists and projects in Popular music. Since 2005, Chay and the look alike team have specifically focused on the area of "artist development," including: co-producing... Read More →


Sunday October 28, 2012 1:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Great Room, W Hotel 6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028

1:45pm PDT

The Black Kungfu Experience

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Producers/Directors - Martha Burr, Mei-Juin Chen

Exact Running Time -57:00

Country of Production - U S A

View the TRAILER

 

Synopsis:

This action-packed documentary chronicles kungfu's black pioneers and heroes, exploring a dynamic intersection of African-American and Chinese culture. From Bruce Lee to Blaxploitation to African martial arts, the film traces the rise of the black kungfu experience in the 1960s and 70s to present day through the personal stories of four unique kungfu masters. Their collective journey poses a subtle challenge to political and social persecution -- and a demonstration that martial arts is frequently less about flash and style, kicks and punches, than it is about community, identity and bridges.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist

Sunday October 28, 2012 1:45pm - 3:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

3:00pm PDT

He Heard My Cry

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Director/Writer - Ervin Riggs

Producer - Ivan Anderson

Exact Running Time -100:00

Country of Production - U S A

Website/Trailer: http://www.heheardmycry.com/

 

Synopsis:

Jay is faced with a dilemma while torn between two best friends, his fiance' allege infidelity/pregnancy, and the new apple in his eyes, he must make a decision between heaven and hell.


Filmmaker/Storyteller Finalist
avatar for Ervin Riggs

Ervin Riggs

Partner, AUP Entertainment Group, LLC
In the 1990's Mr. Riggs wrote, directed, and produced a variety of mass media. Some of the music videos include rap artist C-Pain in the song "Sincerely Jazz" of EV Management Productions, "Underground Funk" (Compilation) of Columbus Mob/Ratti Records, and "Brand Nu Groove" featuring... Read More →


Sunday October 28, 2012 3:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

6:00pm PDT

"24 Hour Love" - Closing Night Film

**TICKET SALES ON-SITE ONLY**

Writer – Don B. Welch

Director – Fred Thomas

Producer(s) – Eric Tomosunas, Don B. Welch

Running time: 91 minutes


Synopsis:

The greatest feeling in the world is when you learn to love! This feature showcases seven stories of everyday people experiencing love, laughter, life and relationships of the heart. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly….It’s all here. 24-Hour Love…what a difference a day makes!


 
Cast

MALINDA WILLIAMS

TATYANA ALI

KEITH ROBINSON

EVA MARCILLE

ANGELL CONWELL

FLEX ALEXANDER

CHICO BENYMON

with LYNN WHITFIELD

and DARIUS MCCRARY


Sunday October 28, 2012 6:00pm - 8:30pm PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028

8:30pm PDT

Closing Night Wrap Party
Sunday October 28, 2012 8:30pm - Monday October 29, 2012 12:00am PDT
The Montalban 1615 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028
 
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