everyone has a story to tell,
what’s yours?
In The News
The People’s Film Festival strive to break free from the restrictions of mainstream media by providing a platform where your stories, your voice and authenticity reign supreme. Our mission is simple: to give “access & opportunity” and provide a platform to shed light on these stories. This empowers the creative to continue to “do the work” and share their stories with the world.
Welcome to The People’s Film Festival! The place to tell Your Story, Your Way and have a true impact on that audience.
TIFFANY HADDISH SHE READY FOUNDATION
TO BE HONORED @The 15th ANNUAL THE PEOPLE’S FILM FESTIVAL 2026
“Through Laughter, She Makes It Safe to Unpack Those Bags”
New York, NY – April 13, 2026 – The People’s Film Festival (TPFF), presented by The People’s Media Music & Arts Foundation, is proud to announce that award-winning comedian, actress, and author Tiffany Haddish and her nonprofit She Ready Foundation will be honored at the 15th Annual People’s Film Festival on May 28, 2026, at the AMC Magic Johnson Theater in Harlem.
This year’s festival theme, “Who Are You?”, speaks directly to the journey of identity, self-acceptance, and truth. Few embody this theme more powerfully than Tiffany Haddish, who has courageously and unapologetically shared her life story with the world—transforming personal pain into purpose through humor.
“Through Laughter, She Makes It Safe To Unpack Those Bags,” said Veronica Keitt, founder of The People’s Film Festival. “When she laughed, I cried. I too lived out of those plastic bags.” Keitt’s reflection highlights a reality shared by thousands. As a former foster child of the New York City Foster Care System, she draws attention to the thousands of children currently navigating foster care. As of 2024, approximately 6,400–9,500 children are in foster care in New York City, while nationwide, nearly 391,000 children are in the system. California—where Haddish resides—has the highest number of foster youth, with over 38,000 children in care. Too often, the stigma associated with foster care is used to define individuals, limiting their sense of identity and potential. But Haddish’s story—and her work through the She Ready Foundation—offers a powerful counter-narrative and solution.
“Foster care does not define who you are—in fact, it refines you.”
Through the She Ready Foundation, Haddish provides resources, support, and opportunities for foster youth, empowering them to heal, grow, and step into their full potential. Her advocacy has inspired countless young people and adults alike to embrace their truth and reclaim their stories. The People’s Film Festival honors Tiffany Haddish not only for her artistic achievements, but for her unwavering commitment to uplifting marginalized voices and creating safe spaces for healing and self-expression.
Thank you, Tiffany Haddish, for making it safe to say: “Yes, I am a foster child.” She Ready? Yes, we are!
The People’s Film Festival kicks off May 28, 2026 and will run through May 30, 2026.
CAN WE KICK IT?
TO OPEN The 15th ANNUAL People’s Film Festival
[New York, NY – APRIL 13, 2026] – The People’s Film Festival (TPFF) presented by The People’s Media, Music & Arts Foundation, announce today announced today that “CAN WE KICK IT?” a documentary directed by Akbar Majeed, will open the 15th Annual People’s Film Festival, along with 3 additional independent short films, Thursday May 28, 2026 in Harlem, NY, at the AMC Magic Johnson Theater.Can We Kick It? - is a feature documentary exploring the disconnect between Black communities in the United States and the world’s most popular sport — soccer. Through the voices of coaches, players, and community builders, the film examines how access, infrastructure, and perception have shaped who participates in the game and who is left out. Blending cultural context with lived experience, the story looks beyond the field to uncover the systemic and social factors influencing visibility and pathways into the sport. As the United States moves toward World Cup 2026, the film asks a timely question: what would it take to build a soccer culture that truly reflects the communities around it?
“Can We Kick It? is personal for me” says director Akbar Majeed who played soccer in his youth. “ However, like a lot of kids in urban communities, I eventually shifted toward more visible sports like basketball as I got older. Soccer just wasn’t as present around me culturally”. Majeed stated years later after traveling internationally, he saw how different the game looked around the world — how grassroots and accessible it really is, which pushed him toward doing deeper work in this space. His background is in social work and community development, so he approached this film by looking beyond the game itself and focusing on access, structure, perception, and opportunity — especially in Black communities in the U.S. “This isn’t just a sports story — it’s a cultural one”.
The People’s Film Festival kicks off May 28, 2026 and will run through May 30, 2026.
THE PEOPLE’S FILM FESTIVAL
Launches the “Micro Drama” Category
EMBRACING THE NEW WAVE OF MEDIA CONSUMPTION
Are You Ready For the Challenge?!
New York, NY – (JANUARY 20, 2026) – The People’s Film Festival (TPFF) presented by The People’s Media Music & Arts Foundation, a renowned leader in celebrating cinematic creativity, proudly announces the launch of its newest competition category the “MICRO DRAMA,” which reflects the ever-evolving landscape of media consumption and the festival’s commitment to adapt to both audiences and creator.
This category directly addresses the shifting behaviors of today’s viewers whose shorter attention spans demand content that is both concise and impactful. Unlike the “And You Don’t Stop – 90 second Challenge”, that TPFF launched during the Hip-Hop 50th Anniversary, these stories must be impactful, engaging, fast-paced and full of emotion, drama, and originality—ending with a cliffhanger. The maximum length for each film is 5 minutes in vertical format.
The People’s Film Festival has always prided itself on listening to its audience and the creative community. The new Micro Drama category is a testament to the festival’s flexibility and dedication to spotlighting creative innovation and ensuring the festival remains a dynamic platform that evolves with the times.
Winners in this category will receive a cash prize of $250.
Submissions for the Micro Drama category are open.
Film Length: Maximum 5 minutes (including credits)
Eligibility: Open to filmmakers of all levels, worldwide
Prizes:
- Grand Prize: $250 Cash Award
- Official Selection: Top 10 micro dramas will be screened at The People’s Film Festival and featured on our website and social media channels
- Certificate of Achievement: For all finalists
The Public Media Awards of Excellence Celebrates the Power of The Media When Placed In The Hands of The Producer.
[New York, NY – JANUARY 5, 2026] –The People’s Film Festival (TPFF) relaunches the Public Media Media category. Independent Producers from all over the world are recognized in over 18 categories, including Best Directed, Best Editor, Lifetime Achievement Awards and Excellence in Longest Running Public Access Program. The judges for this award is comprised of independent producers who have a body of work extending beynd 25years.This category is open to Independent Public & Cable Access Producers who create original programming on Public Access Channels.
As budget cuts seek to threaten the very existence of freedom of speech and access for all, it is important that these programs are recognized for their great work that contribute to the very fabric of American culture, ” says Veronica Keitt, founder of The Public Media Awards of Excellence. Public Media represents the true voice of the people, “Our goal is to tell stories—tell everyone’s story and by doing so we discover that each of our lives are intricately connected on some level and that the world is much smaller then we think.”
“IT’S A Wrap!”
New York, NY – [JUNE 2, 2025] – The People’s Film Festival (TPFF) presented by The People’s Media Music & Arts Foundation wrapped up a successful 14th season, May 31, 2025 at the Maysles Cinema in Harlem, NY, with “Mental Health as it Relates to Violence” in the spotlight. The 3-day festival presented a diverse range of films, panel discussions and workshops centering around mental health—bringing together film enthusiasts, music industry professionals, techs, creatives and the Harlem community. This year TPFF featured over 50 films from 6 countries—24 of which were made in New York, 6 of which were directed by Harlem directors and 18 World Premieres.
The festival opened with “SEVEN- INDEPENDENT FILMMAKERS ”, bringing their own unique voice and perspective to the cinematic landscape, including a special screening of “This is Voza”, directed by Jamal Joseph and Mike De Caro. Voza Rivers was awarded the SPIRIT OF THE PEOPLE for championing innovative programs and providing platforms for underrepresented voices, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of the arts. This award was presented by Harlem District Leader, William Allen. SHANNY HERRERA who gave a powerful speech Opening Night, received the COMMUNITY ACTIVIST AWARD for her public service, activism and commitment to all people. Michael J. Coppola, was this year’s top winner taking home “Best Film” for his film “THAT CREEP FROM THE BAR LAST NIGHT”— a gritty New York drama follows the downfall of an alcoholic, drug addicted band manager, who antagonizes and pushes away those closest to him. Parneille Walker won Best Short for “LOVE IS BLIND”, a romantic comedy that shows the challenges of dating and the mishaps when a blind date goes wrong. “ARCHITECT OF CHANGE”, directed by Keith Young, won Best Documentary, which explores the journey from grassroots activism to the passage of Asheville’s historic reparations resolution—the first of its kind in the South—and the subsequent efforts in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to secure an official apology for the 1921 Greenwood Massacre. “ON OUR BLOCK directed by Astrid Useche, Chloe Barlow won BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT, which tells the story of the seemingly doomed futures of “Wesley” who went to prison for attempted murder when he was still a minor, and “Jason” who dropped out of college after his sister was killed, who lives took a turn when they joined a community intervention program led by Jarrell Daniels, a former Bloods member. New York filmmaker Catherine Gund, won Best Director for PAINT ME A ROAD OUT OF HERE, a film about artist Faith Ringgold who’s monumental painting for the women incarcerated at Rikers Island jail was whitewashed the journey to free the painting with the ultimate goal of freeing the women. The film garnered rave reviews from TPFF attendees, including one attendee who left in tears, stating she remembered the painting in Rose at Rikers. KAKRA NUNOO BROWN - was awarded Best Actress for her role as "NAOMI" in BEHIND THE JOY directed by Jamal Smart. This film dealt with postpartum depression and the results of it. REGGIE WATKINS JOHN was awarded Best Actor for his riveting role as “AMIR RASHAD” in “PERDIDO (FEATURETTE)”, directed by Muhamad Bilal, about a man who suffered from mental health issues as a result repressed memories from his past began to resurface. Director Sandra R. Nixon, took home Best Cinematography and Opening Night Audience Award for her film “HARLEM FOOTSTEPS”, about a walking tour of Harlem becomes an unexpected adventure when a group of tourists ditch their clueless tour guide to follow the footsteps of a street-wise Harlem elder. Filmmaker Iván Darío Alba traveled from Bogotá, Columbia to the US, won BEST INTERNATIONAL for his film MURALMENTE which showcase the artistic talents of female graffiti artists in Colombia. “T.O.N.Y - TOP OF NEW YORK” directed by Michael Steven-Paul (MIKEY J) won Audience Award—playing to a packed audience at Maysles Cinema, and directors Jon Osaki and Josh Chuck received the Radical History Makers Award for their compelling documentary MAKING WAVES: THE RISE OF ASIAN AMERICA which documents the stories of Asian American activism and efforts to lift up Ethnic Studies as a strategy to address present and future waves of anti-Asian hate. (see complete list of winners below).
MENTAL HEALTH IN THE SPOTLIGHT
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, this year’s theme brought mental health issues as it relates to violence into the spotlight. The goal was to bring awareness to this problem through film, music, tech and art, showcasing narratives that emerge from varying mental health related struggles. Attendees were invited to engage in discussions surrounding these issues and the realities of violence it often breeds. Metro Plus Heath, was on hand to inform attendees & creatives about health insurance options and the affordability of securing health care.
TPFF also welcomed back Harlem Creative Lab & Reel Digital Media who brought back their free, two-day master filmmaking class at the Aloft Harlem Hotel which included screenwriting and on-set production. Will Roberts of Augmented Pictures presented VIRTUALY UNCHARTED which was a hands-on workshop that showed how AI could be used to enhance storytelling. Music Producer Steve Keitt of SKR RECORDS presented a workshop on how money flows in the music industry which included, royalties, streams and monetization. Dashaun Pretlow presented a master class on Mobile Journalism—knowing your rights when shooting with your cell phones, and Tiffany Stoker presented TPFF’s the first Cannabis workshop on how to break into the cannabis industry via employment or ownership.
Special Thanks to our Sponsors and Supporters, Metro Plus Health, Bo’s Bagels, who sponsored the Mental Block Talkback Series, Uncle Nearest Brand, Mooshood, Natives of Harlem, Harlem Biscuits, Chele’s, Street Corner Resources, VEP Productions, Lu Sierra - ALUP Productions, Designed By Nature Apparel, And You Don’t Stop Podcast, our Judges, TBS Security, Volunteers & Volunteer Staff.
7 FILMMAKERS TO OPEN The 14th ANNUAL People’s Film Festival
TPFF MENTAL 2025: Unmasking the Shadows of Mental Health to DISRUPT THE CYCLE OF VIOLENCE.
[New York, NY – May 2, 2025] – The People’s Film Festival (TPFF) presented by The People’s Media, Music & Arts Foundation, announces its Opening Night Films for The 14th Annual People’s Film Festival, Thursday, May 29 – May 31, 2025 in Harlem, NY, at the AMC Magic Johnson Theater and Maysles Cinema. In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, this year’s theme will focus on mental health issues as it relates to violence. “TPFF MENTAL 2025” will showcase narratives that emerge from varying mental health related struggles and engage attendees in discussions surrounding these issues and the realities of violence it often breeds.The festival will open with “7 INDEPENDENT FILMMAKERS ” 6 of which are New Yorker Filmmakers, who bring their own unique voice and perspective to the cinematic landscape. They represent a diverse array of backgrounds, experiences, and storytelling approaches and shed light on a wide range of social, political, and personal narratives not only in Harlem but also on a global scale. Opening Night films include, “HARLEM FOOTSTEPS”, a documentary directed by Harlem filmmaker Sandra Nixon in which A walking tour of Harlem becomes an unexpected adventure when a group of tourists ditch their clueless tour guide to follow the footsteps of a street-wise Harlem elder., “ELEGANCE IN EVERY SIP”, a music video from Brooklyn—the heart of gritty Bed-Stuy, directed by NY filmmaker Adonis Williams, Ashleigh Alexandria, a visual piece captures a couple embracing their inner elegance while savoring a drink from Brooklyn Tea. This intimate moment highlights the juxtaposition of refinement and urban charm, celebrating local culture and connection, “PAINT ME A RIVER OUT OF HERE”, a documentary directed by New York filmmaker Catherine Gund of artist Faith Ringgold who made a monumental painting for the women incarcerated at Rikers Island jail. Fifty years later, artist Mary Enoch Elizabeth Baxter, who gave birth in prison 15 years ago, finds herself banding together with an eccentric bunch of activists, politicians, artists, corrections officers and Faith Ringgold to free the painting with the ultimate goal of freeing the women. Paint Me a Road Out of Here is a wild tale of the painting’s whitewashed journey and the two artists who challenge the same powerful, oppressive and persistent institutions, a half century apart with their artwork, their voices and their shared, persistent goals., “BREAK A LEG” directed by Harlem Filmmaker Thomas Cookley tells of a struggling actor who’s thrown into the role of a lifetime, when an unconventional exercise places him in the middle of an extortion plot., “DA FLY TRAP”, a social media experimental film directed by New York filmmaker Prince Smith . Through the lens of social media and street culture “Drip”, a visionary marketing genius, embarks on a mind-bending journey of self-discovery in DA FLY TRAP., he realizes the world he lives in is a carefully designed simulation—"The Fly Trap"—meant to keep people trapped in an endless cycle of survival., “GAME ON aka Peek A Boo”, a psyche thriller, directed by Harlem filmmaker Andrew AJ Jackson in which Jessica, Samantha and Sarah go on their yearly girls trip vacation when suddenly a masked killer shows up. The killer wears a mask that transmits his POV over the dark web while he kills his victims.,“THAT CREEP FROM THE BAR LAST NIGHT”, directed by New York filmmaker Michael J Coppola is gritty New York drama that follows the downfall of Thom, an alcoholic, drug addicted band manager, as he antagonizes and pushes away those closest to him. On his daughter’s birthday, he scrambles across town in a last ditch effort to win back her trust and that of his ex-wife. However, it soon becomes clear that his past behavior may never allow him to see them again.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit: www.thepeoplesfilmfestival.com.
THE 14th ANNUAL PEOPLE’S FILM FESTIVAL TO CLOSE WITH
PERIDIDO (Featurette) Directed by Muhammad Bilal
[New York, NY – May 3, 2025] –The People’s Film Festival (TPFF) presented by The People’s Media, Music & Arts Foundation, announced today that " “PERIDIDO (Featurette)” a film written and directed by Muhammad Bilal, will close the 14th Annual People’s Film Festival, Saturday, May 31 @ 9:15pm in Harlem, NY @ Maysles Cinema.
“PERIDIDO (Featurette)” is the story of Amir Rashad who tries to avoid watching the news and anything that reminds him of the tragic run-in he had with police. Unfortunately he becomes inundated with countless news reports about police brutality and repressed memories from his past begin to resurface. Unable to escape disturbing memories that now haunt him, Amir reluctantly chooses to seek help from a therapist to face his greatest fear.
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, this year’s theme will focus on mental health issues as it relates to violence. “TPFF MENTAL 2025” will showcase narratives that emerge from varying mental health related struggles and engage attendees in discussions surrounding these issues and the realities of violence it often breeds. Join us as we present over 50 films from around the world, including our workshops and afterparties.
Join Us For the World Premiere Film Screening of
MURALMENTE: INSTRUCTIONS FOR INTERPRETING GRAFFITI WOMEN & MURAL ART
Celebrating Female Graffiti Artists from Colombia!
@The 14th ANNUAL THE PEOPLE’S FILM FESTIVAL 2025
[New York, NY – May 24, 2025] – The People’s Film Festival (TPFF) presented by The People’s Media, Music & Arts Foundation, is proud to announce the world premiere of the groundbreaking documentary film, MURALMENTE: INSTRUCTIONS FOR INTERPRETING GRAFFITI WOMEN & MURAL ART, directed by Iván Darío Alba – celebrating the artistic talents of female graffiti artists from Colombia, at The 14th Annual People’s Film Festival, Saturday, May 31, 2025 5pm at Maysles Documentary Cinema in Harlem, NY. Join us for this special screening as we host filmmaker Iván Alba Aranguren and team who will be present for Q & A.Muralmente: Instructions For Interpreting Graffiti Women & Mural Art, "Women and Mural Art" highlights the vibrant culture of Colombian street art and the pivotal role women play within it - delving into the lives of these artists, exploring their journeys, breaking barriers and redefining the graffiti scene with their unique perspectives and powerful messages. It takes place in Bogotá, giving voice to passersby as they share their perceptions of murals in public spaces, telling stories of discrimination and violence—often endured simply for painting in public or even for walking alone in the city. These artworks, imbued with symbols that challenge the notion of fragility, invite us to reconsider new ways of experiencing and expressing femininity, disrupting and transforming the realities of those who pass by.
This film will be screened with 5 other short films as a part of our ongoing commitment to promoting diversity and creativity in the arts. These films include; BAD SYNE directed by Ilysa Spencer, SUEÑOS Y PINTURAS directed by Patricio Jijón, ART OF TOGETHERNESS directed by Marcus Robinson, THE CRAZIEST STORY directed by Dave Steck and THESE EYES directed by legendary graffiti artist and filmmaker James Top. Screenings will be followed by a Q & A with artist on the role of women in graffiti and street art.
TPFF ANNOUNCES ITS 2024 LINEUP
[New York, NY – May 13, 2024] –The People’s Film Festival (TPFF) presented by The People’s Media, Music & Arts Foundation, announced that “HARLEM CREATIVES” will take over the 13th Annual People’s Film Festival, May 30 - June 1, 2024 in Harlem, NY, at the AMC Magic Johnson Theater. Join us as we present over 45 films from around the world, including 360 VR films, gaming, workshops, panels, afterparties and The People’s Awards hosted by renowned Supermodel, & an Award-Winning Runway / Pageant Coach Lu Sierra.The festival kicks off Thursday May 30, 2024 with a welcoming address from Harlem’s very own, New York State Senator Cordel Cleare, for New York's 30th State Senate district. This is followed by the screening of 13 short films from “13 INDEPENDENT FILMMAKERS ” —10 who are New Yorkers, 7 of which call Harlem their home, bringing their own unique voice and perspective to the cinematic landscape. “Like The Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s and 1930s which was a time of unprecedented artistic achievement, creativity, and cultural significance, that spirit of creativity and innovation continues to thrive in the 21st century, in this historic neighborhood today”, says Veronica Keitt, founder of The People’s Film Festival. Opening Night films include, “THE UNCLE NEAREST STORY”, directed by David Poag and narrated by Jeffrey Wright, “ZINDAGI HAI” a music video from India directed by Jyoti Singh, “THREE BIRDS”, directed by Shannon Harris, “INTERCEPTION: JA YNE KENNEDY- AMERICAN SPORTSCASTER”, directed by Safiya Songhai, “KINGDOME”, directed by Shawn Antoine II, “MEANWHILE”, directed by Catherine Gund, “DRIVING THE GREEN BOOK”, directed by Mike De Caro, Alvin Hall & Saro Varjabedian, “KAREN’S JUDGEMENT DAY”, directed by Joy Shannon, “MOOD”, directed by Anthony R. Page, “THE GOOD MAN”, directed by Andrew AJ Jackson, “T.O.N.Y. - TOP OF NEW YORK”, directed by Michael Steven-Paul (MIKEY J)”, “NO WAY OUT”, directed by J. Swain, and “NECESSARY EVIL”, directed by Jamal Hodge. Through their work, these filmmakers are redefining the cinematic landscape not only in Harlem but also on a global scale. Their stories are resonating with audiences far and wide, and their commitment to authentic storytelling and their willingness to tackle complex and often underrepresented subjects are reminiscent of the bold artistic endeavors of the Harlem Renaissance era.
HARLEM CREATIVES IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Much like their predecessors during the Harlem Renaissance, the Harlem Creatives of today are pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and telling stories that resonate on a deeply human level. They represent a diverse array of backgrounds, experiences, and storytelling approaches. From thought-provoking documentaries to immersive narratives, these filmmakers are capturing the essence of Harlem and shedding light on a wide range of social, political, and personal narratives. On Saturday June 1, 2024, 1 - 5:00pm, Harlem Creatives will convene at the Tech People Expo (TPXPO 2024), TPFF’s free community event that provides attendees with exciting opportunities to engage in live VR experiences, immersive storytelling, gaming, workshops, live art painting, tech talks, and panel discussions. This year TPFF partnered with Augmented Pictures, to present Story Cypher, a collection of narrative-based 360-degree videos, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) experiences curated from a blend of seasoned virtuosos and emerging talents in the immersive media landscape. Workshops include Media Management for Content Creation, presented by Dashawn Pretlow and a 2-day filmmaking master class presented by Harlem Creative Lab in collaboration with The Reel Deal. Harlem Creative Lab will be offering 2 free amateur camera package rentals to anyone who attends both sessions. In addition, attendees who sign up for this class will be given a fee waiver code to submit their projects into the People’s Film Festival the next year. Seats are limited sign up now!
THE 13th ANNUAL PEOPLE’S FILM FESTIVAL TO CLOSE WITH
ANALOGUE RESOLUTION: HOW FEMINIST MEDIA CHANGED THE WORLD Directed by Marusya Bociurkiw
[New York, NY – May 10, 2024] –The People’s Film Festival (TPFF) presented by The People’s Media, Music & Arts Foundation, announced today that " ANALOGUE RESOLUTION: How Feminist Media Changed The World " a film written and directed by Marusya Bociurkiw, will close the 13th Annual People’s Film Festival, Saturday June 1, 2024 @ 4:30pm in Harlem, NY @ the AMC Magic Johnson Theater.“ANALOGUE RESOLUTION: How Feminist Media Changed The World” When Zainub Verjee, a Vancouver-based film programmer started the InVisible Colours women of colour film festival in 1988, she fully expected it to continue for years. So did Linda Abrahams (Matriart Journal) and Zanana Akande (Tiger Lily Women of Colour Magazine). Cutbacks, racism, and technological change decimated a sophisticated, world-changing feminist media movement. This feature-length documentary traces the rise and fall of analogue feminist communications that preceded the MeToo era. From Halifax to Vancouver, feminist storytellers of the 1970s to 90s took hold of cutting-edge media technology to document everything from violence towards women, to how to insert a diaphragm.
You’ll hear from feminist rock stars like Studio D’s Bonnie Sherr Klein (Montreal/Vancouver) and Sylvia D. Hamilton (Halifax); print collectives like Press Gang (Vancouver) and Our Lives: Black Women’s Newspaper(Toronto). Verjee tells the story of Canada’s first women of colour film festival; Nora Randall describes what it meant to create Pedestal, first feminist newspaper in Canada. Rare archival footage, like 70's feminist gatherings in Montreal, lead to the film’s climax: draconian cutbacks to women’s and lesbian organizations across Canada, following the massacre of feminists at École Polytechnique in Montreal, (December 6, 1989). The film concludes with a resurgence: younger BIPOC feminists (Ella Cooper, Black Women Film!; Didhood Collective), using analogue strategies to create new feminist digital networks.
New York, NY – [JUNE 6, 2023] – The People’s Film Festival (TPFF) presented by The People’s Media Music & Arts Foundation wrapped up a successful 12th season, June 4, 2023 at the AMC Magic Johnson Theater & Maysles Cinema in Harlem, NY, with the theme of “50 Years of Hip Hop” in the spotlight. The 4-day festival presented a diverse range of films, panel discussions and workshops centering around the hip hop culture—bringing together film enthusiasts, music industry professionals, techs, creatives and the Harlem community. This year TPFF featured over 70 films from 11 countries—24 of which were made in New York, 11 were directed by women and 20 World Premieres. The festival opened with the Advanced Screening of “I’m A Virgo”, a upcoming Amazon Prime TV Series directed by Boots Riley starring Jharrel Jerome, Walton Goggins, Mike Epps and Olivia Washington.
TPFF ANNOUNCES ITS LINEUP FOR 2023
The 12th Annual People’s Film Festival (TPFF) is excited to announce this year’s theme—”AND YOU DON’T STOP!” –in honor of the 50th Year Anniversary of Hip Hop. The festival is set to take place from June 1 – 4, 2023 at the AMC Magic Johnson Theater and Maysles Cinema in Harlem, New York in which The People’s Film Festival will host a series of events, many of which center around the hip hop culture. This year The People’s Film Festival will screen 74 films—24 of which are made in New York, 11 are directed by women and 20 World Premieres.
“I’M A VIRGO” an upcoming Amazon Prime TV Series directed by Boots Riley starring Jharrel Jerome, Walton Goggins, Mike Epps and Olivia Washington, will open the 12th Annual People’s Film Festival, along with 4 additional independent films, Thursday June 1, 2023 in Harlem, NY, at the AMC Magic Johnson Theater. “I Am Virgo” is a coming-of-age tale about a 13-foot-tall young black man named Cootie who grew up hidden from the world due to his humongous size.
The 12th Annual People’s Film Festival (TPFF) is excited to announce this year’s theme—”AND YOU DON’T STOP!” –in honor of the 50th Year Anniversary of Hip Hop. The festival kicks off Opening Night @ The AMC Magic Johnson Theater with the “AND YOU DON’T STOP” Hip Hop Awards presentation on June 1, 2023, honoring Hip Hop legends whose contributions have helped lay the foundation of the hip hop culture and an entire new genre of music for generations of musicians, artists, and performers over the years. The awardees include: DJ Kool Herc, the father of Hip Hop; Cindy Campbell –1st Lady of Hip Hop, promoter, EMCEE Coke La Rock the Original MC; Grandmixer DXT – the first Turntablist, DJ RED Alert; DJ Dollar Bill; MC Sha Rock – 1st Female MC; GrandMaster Melly Mel – Furious 5; Scorpio aka Mr. Ness – Furious 5; GrandMaster Caz– Cold Crush Brothers ; Reggie Reg – Crash Crew; Fab Five Freddy, Artist and director; Al B – Disco Four; Easy AD – Cold Crush Brothers; Hell Razah – Sunz of Man; Breakdancers Cholly Rock, Crazy Legs, and Pee Wee Dance; Graffiti Writers Sen1 and Skeme; the legendary Beatboxer – Doug E. Fresh, Bobbito Garcia, Author, filmmaker & NAB Hall of Fame inductee; Marion “Tiny” Frampton – Casanova Crew; Lucky Bling- Manager, and Maria Davis of Mad Wednesdays. TPFF will also present the Hon. Mayor Eric Adams of New York City with the “Spirit of The People” Award, whose life and career have been a true embodiment of the “And You Don’t Stop” mentality that is such an integral part of hip-hop culture.
TPFF ANNOUNCES ITS CLOSING NIGHT FILM 2023
The People’s Film Festival announced today that “THERE GOES THE NEIGHBORHOOD” a film written and directed by IAN PHILLIPS , will be the Closing Night film for the 12th Annual People’s Film Festival, June 1, 2023 in Harlem NY at the Maysles Cinema, in Harlem NY.
Closing night will also be followed by a panel on gentrification “Whose Streets?” with the Peoples Awards immediately after.
TPFF – AND YOU DONT STOP 90 Sec CHALLENGE
In celebration of Hip Hop’s 50th Year Anniversary, The People’s Film Festival (TPFF) introduced a new category—micro|short|reel, for the “And You Don’t Stop” 90 Second Challenge. Filmmakers, Producers, Artists, Musicians, and Creators of all levels are invited to submit their micro|short|reel to compete in our “And You Don’t Stop” 90 Second Challenge for a chance to win up to $500 in cash awards & prizes.
Harlem Shows Up at the 11th Annual People’s Film Festival 2022
New York, NY – JUNE 6, 2022] – The People’s Film Festival presented by The People’s Media Music & Arts Foundation wrapped up a fantastic 11th season at the AMC Magic Johnson Theater & Maysles Cinema in Harlem, NY. The 4-day festival held June 2- June 5, 2022 featured 55 independent films from 10 different countries—22 of which were films directed by women, 14 were New York City based film directors – 4 of which were from Harlem.
TPFF ANNOUNCES ITS LINEUP FOR 2022
Resilience!
The People’s Film Festival Announces Its 2022 Lineup
The 11th Annual People’s Film Festival TO OPEN WITH “IMPACT- DICK GREGORY” written & directed by Jordan Stone.
[New York, NY – May 2, 2022]The People’s Film Festival (TPFF), celebrates its 11th year with over 55 independent films, music videos, and PSA’s that defied the COVID-19 pandemic, national protest and political strife. The festival kicks off June 2 – June 5, 2022 at the AMC Magic Theater and Maysles Cinema in Harlem, NY.
TPFF ANNOUNCES ITS OPENING NIGHT FILM 2022
IMPACT – DICK GREGORY
to Open The 11th Annual People’s Film Festival
[New York, NY – May 1, 2022] –The People’s Film Festival (TPFF) presented by The People’s Media, Music & Arts Foundation, announced today that “Impact – Dick Gregory” a documentary directed by Jordan Stone of Italy, will open the 11th Annual People’s Film Festival, along with 10 additional independent short films, Thursday June 2, 2022 in Harlem, NY, at the AMC Magic Johnson Theater.TPFF ANNOUNCES ITS CLOSING NIGHT FILM 2022
THE 11th ANNUAL PEOPLE’S FILM FESTIVAL TO CLOSE WITH “SURVIVAL” directed by Damon Jamal
[New York, NY – May 2, 2022] –The People’s Film Festival (TPFF) presented by The People’s Media, Music & Arts Foundation, announced today that “SURVIVAL” a film written and directed by Damon Jamal, will close the 11th Annual People’s Film Festival, Sunday June 5, 2022 @ 2pm in Harlem, New York at the AMC Magic Johnson Theater.THE BLACK SPADES MOVIE RECIEVES A STANDING OVATION
“THE BLACK SPADES” Documentary Receives a Standing Ovation at the 10th Annual People’s Film Festival – Music Edition
[New York, NY – May 31, 2021] – The Black Spades documentary received a standing ovation following its screening at the 10th Annual People’s Film Festival – Music Edition, Sunday May 30, 2021 at the AMC Magic Johnson Theater in Harlem, NY.