By Frankie Red Rosso,
Staff Writer
Miami’s Historic Overtown Hosted the 7th Annual Urban Film Festival (UFF) through a jam-packed three-day weekend of educational programs, screenings, and networking social events September 2nd-4th. The weekend of events took place in a corner conglomerate of venues that provided an exclusive “Urban District” feel— Red Rooster’s Upper Deck Nightclub where all of the Networking Mixers were Hosted; and The Overtown Performing Arts Center, The Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater, Center for Black Innovation, and Dorsey Library where screenings, Masterclasses, and Panel Discussions were hosted.
“Every year we find more ways to connect with our communities and bring multiple stories to life through our screenings. That’s why this year we are screening over 90 films. It’s a huge moment not only for us, but for creators of color and diverse backgrounds. This isn’t a BLACK film Festival; this is an International Film Festival that focuses on providing opportunities to Urban Filmmakers and Urban Stories,” said Marco mall—CEO and Creator of UFF.
This year’s UFF itinerary focused on 3 key areas: Education, Exposure, and Distribution. The objective is to provide the Urban Filmmaker with numerous outlets of knowledge and insight directly from industry professionals in their community.
The weekend kicked off with a Press Conference, where Local Media were given the opportunity to ask questions to key players of this year’s Urban Film Festivals.
“I am just excited to be here. I love coming out and supporting my fellow Black people doing amazing things”, said Host Allen Maldonado as he peeled back his perfectly aligned pearly white smile.
Following the Press Conference, UFF opened their weekend lineup with a Youth Empowerment Summit Hosted by Allen Maldonado. Over 300 Students from various Dade-County Elementary, Middle, and High Schools were in attendance where they learned more about the film industry. The Summit even included an Interactive Metaverse Presentation where students received a first-hand look at the future of gaming and virtual reality.
Actor, Filmmaker and Entrepreneur Romeo Miller also flew in from California to make a Guest Appearance. He provided encouraging words before proceeding to take Red Carpet photos with the students shortly thereafter. He left the students roaring in excitement with this chant: “NEVER GIVE UP!” as he also vigorously shouted with the crowd in excitement.
Friday’s events continued with a Happy Hour Networking Mixer at Red Rooster with Dj Epps. Following the Mixer Friday and after a day long of Masterclasses Saturday, both evenings concluded with Red Carpets followed by the screenings for the HD Premier of “Bloodline” on Friday— who was also the Winner & Recipient of the Best Independent Film Award and Secret Society 2” on Saturday which was also a Winner and Recipient for Best Local Web Series, followed by a Q&A with the cast and Crew.
Providing UFF Attendees to make the most of their experience by partaking in educational opportunities: participating in panel discussions, watching screenings, or attending Masterclasses— Saturday’s events took place at 4 different venues.
Panel discussion topics included: Mental Health; The Future of Film; Tech & The Metaverse; from Influencer to Acting; and from Music Video Directing to Film Directing. Concurrently at The Center of Black Innovation, was a series of Masterclasses. Some classes even included Urban Film Festival Award Nominees as the very instructors.
Masterclass topics covered in this series were: Writing- which was led by Shaun Mathis— Winner of The First Time Filmmaker Award; Cinematography led by Brandon Dumlao; Directing led by Jamal Hill; Acting by Ulysses Terrero; and Producing led by Randy Marshall. Attendees were able to ask questions and engage with speakers as well as learn a wealth of knowledge from professionals in their field.
UFF wrapped up its weekend of events on Sunday with of course MORE screenings throughout the day and concluded with an award ceremony later that evening. Receiving a Nomination and ultimately winning an Award validates all of the hard work that went into putting the body of work together. Ultimately, that’s what The Urban Film Festival sets out to do year after year for their filmmakers, actors, and participants— beyond educating them, it’s to provide them with opportunities to be recognized for their hard work and commitment to the film industry.
Shaun Mathis— Writer and Director of “Eighteen” and Winner of The First Time Film Maker Award said, “This wasn’t my first film but this was my first time submitting. So it feels good to know that I have been able to perfect my craft throughout the years and be recognized for the work put in.”
The weekend closed with a celebration party over at Red Rooster with DJ Epps once again where all the success from such an eventful weekend was celebrated. The energy that flowed the room was uplifting and positive, creating a culture of joy, inclusivity, and positivity. The Urban Film Festival empowers their creators to embrace this opportunity as they strive closer towards greatness and pristine recognition for their works.
