Well, let me tell ya something about this here Black August Film Festival. It’s one of them events that got folks from all over comin’ together to remember and honor some mighty important things. You see, this festival ain’t just about watchin’ movies for fun, no sir. It’s a way to remember the struggles of Black folks, the battles they been fightin’, and the ones that didn’t make it out alive. It started back in the 1970s, when Black freedom fighters got together to raise their voices about all the folks that died fightin’ against a system that wanted to keep ‘em down. It’s also about speakin’ up for them that are still stuck in them prisons, fightin’ battles from behind bars. Every year, folks gather to keep that memory alive, remindin’ everyone about the fight for freedom and justice.
This year, the 3rd Annual Black August Film Festival is gonna take place on August 17 and 18, 2024. It’s put together by the Pasadena African American Film Foundation (PAAFF). Now, y’all know Pasadena, it’s a big ol’ place, and every year, they hold this festival to shed light on important stories. Stories about resistance, strength, and Black history. You ain’t gonna just see any ol’ films there. No, sir. These films got meaning. They got purpose. They tell the stories of those who fought, those who struggled, and those who kept the fight alive for the next generation. It’s a place where people come together, learn somethin’, and most importantly, remember the sacrifices.
So, let me tell you a little more ’bout this festival. Over them two days, you’ll see all sorts of films. You’ll be watchin’ movies that come from all corners of the world. You might see short films or full-length features, and maybe even some that take a look back at older works that remind us where we been and how far we’ve come. The folks behind this festival ain’t just puttin’ together films for entertainment. No, they’re showin’ movies that are gonna teach you, make you think, and maybe even make you mad. But that’s the point. It’s about real stories, real history, and gettin’ that truth out into the world so folks don’t forget.
This whole thing ain’t just about sittin’ down and watchin’ flicks. No, no, no. There’s also gonna be conversations, panels, and tributes. That’s where the heart of the festival really shines. People who been through it, who know the struggles first hand, are gonna sit down and share their stories. You’ll hear from filmmakers who’ve been in the game a long time, tellin’ you how they got started, why they make the films they do, and what kind of impact they want to have. And let me tell ya, the stories they got to share are somethin’ special.
Now, I know what you’re thinkin’. You might be wonderin’ why they call it Black August. Well, that’s ’cause August has always been a month for resistance. It’s been a time when folks come together and honor them that fought and died for freedom. Black August is about rememberin’ that fight and keepin’ it alive. So when folks gather for this festival, they ain’t just watchin’ movies. They’re payin’ tribute to the heroes and the fighters. They’re celebratin’ the strength of Black folks, and they’re remindin’ us all that the fight ain’t over yet.
The Pasadena African American Film Foundation sure knows how to throw a good event. They make sure this festival is somethin’ special every year. And it’s a big deal, y’know. This year’s gonna be no different. With a mix of different films and events, there’s somethin’ for everyone. If you care about history, justice, or just wanna see some great films, this festival is where you wanna be come August 17 and 18.
And let me tell you, it’s a mighty fine way to spend your time, ‘cause it’s more than just a movie night. It’s a way to connect with history, to remember the past, and to look ahead toward a future where we can all be free. It’s about gatherin’ folks who care about those things. Folks who wanna make sure that the struggles of the past ain’t forgotten, and that the fight for justice and equality keeps goin’. So, mark your calendars for this August. The Black August Film Festival is comin’ your way, and it’s somethin’ you don’t wanna miss!
Tags:[Black August Film Festival, Pasadena African American Film Foundation, Black History, Resistance, Film Festival, August 2024, Films, Justice, Freedom, Panel Discussions, Tribute]