A snapshot of the 16th Annual Bushwick Film Festival

We are thrilled to share the highlights of our 16th edition, which brought together film enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. From October 25th to October 29th, we had the privilege of showcasing over 125 films, celebrating both local talents and global perspectives. Our movie screenings at Williamsburg Cinemas gave everyone an amazing cinematic experience that they truly enjoyed.

Our festivities commenced with the Opening Night Red Carpet Reception at Brooklyn Borough Hall on October 25th presented by Spectrum. We were honored to have Johnnie Walker Blended Scotch Whisky as our sponsor for the third consecutive year, treating our guests to delightful specialty cocktails. During the Opening Night Ceremony, Ovation TV made a meaningful contribution by presenting a $10,000 check to the Bushwick Film Festival through the Stand For The Arts Awards—a wonderful partnership with Spectrum. This initiative is all about recognizing and supporting local arts, culture, and education.

The Movie Industry Conference, held at Be Electric Studios, featured thought-provoking panel discussions, while the Sweet 16 Party at Lot 45 added a vibrant touch of celebration to the mix.

The grand finale was our award ceremony on October 29th, where we honored over 10 exceptional films and filmmakers. These remarkable works wove powerful narratives, celebrated artistic independence, and introduced us to unforgettable characters navigating the seas of change, self-discovery, and new beginnings. Here's a glimpse of our award-winning films:

FEATURE NARRATIVE CATEGORY

Best Feature Narrative: "Darla in Space," directed by Susie Moon and Eric Laplante.

Special Jury Prize: "Bittersweet," directed by Haroldo Borges.

Honorable Mention: "Playing Sam," directed by Ramon Felipe Pesante.

SHORT NARRATIVE CATEGORY

Best Short Narrative: "The Old Young Crow," directed by Liam LoPinto.

Special Jury Prize: "The Vacation," directed by Jarreau Carrillo.

Honorable Mention: "Bodies Will Tumble and Roll," directed by Eli Vazquez.

FEATURE DOCUMENTARY CATEGORY

Best Feature Doc: "Storming Caesar's Palace," directed by Hazel Gurland-Pooler.

Special Jury Prize: "Estamos Unidos," directed by Alvaro Manuel Morales.

Honorable Mention: "Esu and The Universe," directed by Thiago Zanato.

SHORT SERIES CATEGORY

Best Series: "Story of Godia," directed by Mouayed Zabtia.

Special Jury Prize: "Awesome," directed by Paul Munger.

Honorable Mention: "Monologue," directed by Nick Clifford and Stef Smith.

Our esteemed panel of jurors included prominent figures from the film industry, including Theo Rigby, Danelle Eliav, Melody C Roscher, Petra Ahmann, Amenya Makuku, Courtney Andrialis-Vincent, Niki Williams, and our very own Kweighbaye Kotee, the founder of BFF.

The Bushwick Film Festival 2023 was a celebration of diversity, creativity, and the profound impact of storytelling through independent cinema. As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain dedicated to supporting emerging voices in the film industry and contributing to Brooklyn's vibrant cultural scene.

Our heartfelt thanks go out to our sponsors, partners, grant benefactors, and patrons, including Spectrum, Johnnie Walker, Ovation TV, Brooklyn Borough Hall, Pushing Forward Realty, Circa Brewing Co., Broadway Stages, Williamsburg Cinemas, Lot 45, World Owned, Be Electric Studios, Master Card, NAACP, Self-Portrait Project, Hello Alice, and IfundWomen donors.