“South African Stories” Brings New Voices to the Screen"

 

ABFF 2025 SPOTLIGHT: 

“South African Stories” Brings New Voices to the Screen"

The 29th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is turning up the volume on global Black storytelling with a special presentation titled “South African Stories.” This curated showcase of five independent short films will spotlight the power, beauty, and urgency of contemporary South African cinema, offering American audiences a front-row seat to the next generation of storytellers.

The festival returns live to Miami Beach, June 11–15, followed by a virtual encore on ABFF PLAY from June 16–24.

At the heart of “South African Stories” is a celebration of cinematic courage. Each film unpacks a different layer of life in South Africa, grappling with identity, resilience, isolation, and the sacred ties to land and community. Audiences will be invited to engage directly with the filmmakers in a post-screening Q&A, opening up conversations that connect creative communities across continents.

“Through initiatives like ‘South African Stories,’ ABFF remains steadfast in its commitment to elevating underrepresented filmmakers and broadening our global impact,” said Jeff and Nicole Friday, founders of NICE CROWD. “This program is more than just a showcase; it’s a vital bridge—amplifying the powerful narratives of South African filmmakers and connecting audiences across the African diaspora. We are celebrating the stories that bind us, all through the transformative power of cinema.”

2025 “South African Stories” Selections

Sent
Director/Writer: Ayanda Halimana
World Premiere
Runtime: 16:06
Logline: On her first solo trip to the local shop, seven-year-old Thulile finds herself lost after crossing paths with a cunning stranger.

Breaking Free
Director: Kopedi Aphane | Writer: Nthabiseng E Letsoela
World Premiere
Runtime: 21:00
Logline: Trapped in an abusive home, Lerato makes the difficult decision to reclaim her freedom, whatever the cost.

Love Through The Lens
Director/Writer: Donna Sibande
U.S. Premiere
Runtime: 20:27
Logline: Two strangers find love in lockdown—until the pandemic takes a devastating turn.

Rearview
Director/Writer: Chris Djuma
World Premiere
Runtime: 25:08
Logline: The streets of Johannesburg are fast, unforgiving, and governed by their own rules.

Umhlaba Wokhokho – Land of My Ancestors
Director/Writer: Nondumiso Buthelezi-Masache
U.S. Premiere
Runtime: 17:14
Logline: A visionary leader answers his ancestors’ call, reclaiming sacred land and guiding his people toward a future rooted in heritage.

ABFF 2025 sponsors and partners include:

• Founding: Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO®

• Host: Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB)

• Presenting: Comcast NBCUniversal, Ally, Walmart

• Major: City of Miami Beach, Amazon MGM Studios

• Official: American Airlines, Sony Pictures Entertainment

• Supporting: Netflix, STARZ

• Industry: NYFA, Getty Images, A&E

• Media: Los Angeles Times, Variety

Formerly ABFF Ventures, NICE CROWD is a Los Angeles-based live events company that produces innovative experiences across the arts, lifestyle, and wellness spaces, dedicated to showcasing BIPOC talent and culture. 

To learn more about their events, visit www.nicecrowd.com.

To explore the virtual festival experience, visit abffplay.com.