The Black Star International Film Festival: A Decade of Celebrating African and Global Cinema

The Black Star International Film Festival (BSIFF) is calling on filmmakers from around the world to submit their cinematic masterpieces for the upcoming 2025 edition. With a legacy of ten years in championing the art of storytelling through film, BSIFF has established itself as one of the premier platforms for both African and international filmmakers to showcase their talent, engage with industry leaders, and connect with audiences from diverse cultural backgrounds.

A Brief History of BSIFF

Founded in 2015, the Black Star International Film Festival is based in Accra, Ghana, and was created to bridge the gap between African filmmakers and the global film industry. The festival’s mission is to celebrate the diversity of storytelling, promote the cultural wealth of Africa, and provide a platform for filmmakers to gain visibility, network, and secure distribution deals.

Over the years, BSIFF has grown from a local celebration of film to an internationally recognized event, drawing participants and audiences from all corners of the globe. The festival’s commitment to showcasing diverse perspectives has made it a beacon for filmmakers eager to make their mark in the world of cinema.

What Makes BSIFF Unique?

1. Focus on African Stories: While BSIFF welcomes films from around the world, it has a special focus on African narratives and stories that celebrate the continent’s rich heritage, culture, and innovation.
2. Diverse Programming: The festival features a wide range of categories, including feature films, short films, documentaries, animations, and experimental films. This diversity ensures that filmmakers from all genres have a place to shine.
3. Workshops and Panels: BSIFF isn’t just about screenings; it’s also an educational hub. The festival hosts workshops, masterclasses, and panel discussions led by industry experts, offering filmmakers valuable insights and connections.
4. Awards and Recognition: BSIFF presents several awards each year, including Best Feature Film, Best Documentary, Best Short Film, and the prestigious Black Star Award for the overall best submission.

The Submission Process

Filmmakers looking to submit their work to BSIFF can do so directly through FilmFreeway, an industry-standard platform that simplifies the submission process. Here’s how it works:

1. Create an Account on FilmFreeway: Register and upload your film to your FilmFreeway account.
2. Visit the BSIFF Page: Navigate to www.filmfreeway.com/bsiff and select the appropriate category for your submission.
3. Submit Your Film: Complete the application form, attach the required materials (synopsis, poster, trailer, etc.), and pay the submission fee.
4. Await Notification: Filmmakers whose works are selected will be notified via email.

For more details, visit the official festival website at www.bsiff.org.

Memorable Moments from Previous Editions

BSIFF has been a launchpad for numerous films that have gone on to gain international acclaim. One notable example is "Azali," a Ghanaian film directed by Kwabena Gyansah, which premiered at BSIFF and later became Ghana’s first-ever submission for the Oscars in the Best International Feature Film category.

Another success story is "The Burial of Kojo," directed by Blitz Bazawule. The film garnered attention at BSIFF before being picked up by Ava DuVernay’s ARRAY for Netflix distribution, introducing a global audience to its poignant storytelling.

Celebrating a Milestone: BSIFF @ 10

As BSIFF marks its 10th anniversary, the festival’s theme, BSIFF@10, highlights a decade of excellence in amplifying African voices and bridging cultural divides through film. This year’s edition promises to be the biggest yet, with a lineup of exciting events, special screenings, and retrospectives on films that have shaped the festival’s legacy.

Why Submit Your Film to BSIFF?

• Global Exposure: The festival attracts industry professionals, distributors, and media outlets, offering filmmakers unmatched visibility.
• Networking Opportunities: Meet and collaborate with other filmmakers, producers, and industry stakeholders.
• Cultural Exchange: BSIFF provides a unique platform for sharing and learning about diverse cultures and perspectives.

Don’t Miss Your Chance

If you’ve made a film, now is the time to share your story with the world. Submissions for the 2025 edition of the Black Star International Film Festival are open. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a decade-long tradition of excellence in cinema. Submit your film today via FilmFreeway or visit the official website for more information.

Join the conversation on social media with the hashtags #BSIFF25 and #BSIFF@10 as we celebrate the art of storytelling and the power of film to connect us all.

Peter Auwerx, Digital Media