Reel Sisters Film Festival Showcases Diverse Stories of Love, Loss, and Faith

The Reel Sisters of the Diaspora Film Festival & Lecture Series, the first Academy Qualifying film festival dedicated to women filmmakers, has launched its 27th annual season under the theme 'A State of Grace.' Running through October 31, 2024, the festival presents a diverse array of films exploring love, loss, and faith, with screenings and events taking place across six venues in Brooklyn and Harlem.

Festival Founder Carolyn A. Butts, a recipient of the 2024 The Just Brooklyn Prize, emphasized the festival's commitment to showcasing films that reflect the full spectrum of shared humanity. The event kicked off with an awards ceremony on October 4, presenting the Trailblazer award to Huriyyah Muhammad for her contributions to cinema.

Highlights of the festival include the Brooklyn premiere of 'He Looked Like A Postcard,' directed by Qasim Basir, and the world premiere of 'An Unusual Suspect,' directed by Booker T. Mattison. The lineup also features Oscar-qualifying films such as 'Jellyfish and Lobster' by Yasmin Afifi, which won the Reel Sisters Short Narrative Award.

The festival's importance extends beyond showcasing talent; it serves as a platform for underrepresented voices in the film industry. With over 70 films by women of color from across the globe, Reel Sisters offers networking opportunities and access to industry professionals through panels and workshops.

As one of only 26 Oscar-qualifying film festivals in the nation, Reel Sisters plays a crucial role in elevating diverse narratives to the forefront of cinema. The festival's impact is further underscored by its commitment to supporting emerging filmmakers, having awarded more than $70,000 in fellowships and cash awards since its inception.

The festival's affordable ticket prices and All Access Passes make it accessible to a wide audience, promoting inclusivity in film appreciation and industry networking. Supported by local council members, state arts councils, and the National Endowment for the Arts, Reel Sisters continues to be a vital platform for celebrating and empowering women of color in the film industry.