BlackStar Film Festival

Philadelphia, USA · FilmFreeway

No premiere requirement Shorts & Features NarrativeDocumentaryAnimationExperimentalDrama

Academy Award qualifying. Founded in 2012, rapidly became one of the most important festivals for Black, Brown, and Indigenous filmmakers. Celebrates films by people of the global majority. Combines screenings with panels, masterclasses, and community events. Known for exceptional curation and a strong filmmaker community.

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Deadlines & Fees

earlybird deadline · passed

Mon, January 12, 2026

Shorts 10 / Features 15 USD

regular deadline · passed

Mon, March 2, 2026

Shorts 18 / Features 30 USD

late deadline · passed

Mon, April 13, 2026

Shorts 30 / Features 50 USD

The Facts

Festival dates

Wed, August 5, 2026 – Sun, August 9, 2026

Notification

Expected by Mon, June 1, 2026

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