Founded in 2023 by Angelina Mitchell, a film student at Wright State University, the Dayton Black Women’s Film Festival (DBWFF) seeks to serve as a platform to feature films written, directed, and produced by Black women that honor, discover and share the Black, African American, and African Diaspora experience. We aim to strengthen the community and create opportunities for collaboration among black women filmmakers in Dayton and nearby regions.

The ultimate goal is to ensure that there is always a place for Black women filmmakers to be celebrated, acknowledged, and welcomed in the film industry. The festival not only celebrates artistic achievement but also fosters community and dialogue around issues of race, gender, and representation in cinema.

FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

  • OPENING NIGHT


    Thursday, 7:30 PM


    Join us for an unforgettable Opening Night as we present the Dayton premiere of SEEDS, the powerful new documentary from visionary director Brittany Shyne. Fresh off its Grand Jury Prize win at Sundance, SEEDS is a deeply moving exploration of legacy, land, and the resilience of Black people across generations.


    TICKETS

  • BLACK WOMEN IN FILM WORKSHOP

    Friday, 4:00 PM


    Black Women in Filmmaking Workshop


    Join us for an inspiring and educational workshop hosted by the Dayton Metro Library, focusing on the craft of filmmaking.

    • Screenwriting Masterclass – Emmy-winning director Selena Burks-Rentschler will lead a session on the art of screenwriting, sharing her insights and expertise.

    • Directing Masterclass – Award-winning filmmaker Kailah Ware will guide attendees through the essential skills and techniques of directing, offering invaluable advice for aspiring directors.


    Registration

  • NETWORKING BRUNCH & SHORTS PROGRAM


    Saturday, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

    Networking Brunch at The Neon

    Connect with fellow filmmakers, industry professionals, and festival attendees over a delicious brunch. This is the perfect opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, and create lasting connections in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Followed by screenings featuring a curated selection of powerful short films from across the globe, all produced, directed, and written by Black women. 

    Wright State University Spotlight

    This segment will shine a light on the incredible work of Black women currently enrolled in the Motion Picture Production program at Wright State University, showcasing the next generation of filmmakers.

    Dayton Premiere of Brownies
    Experience the Dayton premiere of the award-winning film Brownies, directed by Aisha Ford. 


    Presentation of the Dr. Marva Mitchell Garden of Dreams Scholarship

    We will honor the legacy of Dr. Marva Mitchell with the presentation of the Garden of Dreams Scholarship. 

    TICKETS

  • AWARDS NIGHT

    Sunday, 5:00 PM


    Awards Night & Special Presentations


    • Bloom Award Presentation

    Screening of Bodies in Flux by Kailah Ware 

    • Gardenia Award Presentation

    20th Anniversary Screening of Sundance selected film Saving Jackie by Selena Burks-Rentschler 

    Additionally, join us for a special tribute to the iconic Love and Basketball in collaboration with Multidisciplinary Arts Collective Scripted in Black, as we commemorate the 25th anniversary of this groundbreaking film with a heartfelt celebration of its impact on both the film industry and culture.

    Screening of Love and Basketball at 7:30 PM.


    TICKETS