- Opening night screening of Thriller 40 Acres starring Danielle Deadwyler
- Screening of critically acclaimed documentary Shoot the People
- Exclusive screening of Trouble Man starring Michael Jai White
- Miranda Wayland, CEO Creative Diversity Network honoured with The 2025 Impact award
- Masterclasses presented by New York Film Academy (NYFA)
- “South African Stories” at Rich Mix presented by Sony Pictures Entertainment
- Screen Alliance Wales and Bad Wolf showcase emerging talent from the Wolf Pack trainee programme, presented by Sony Pictures Entertainment
London, UK – Aug 7 2025
The S.O.U.L Fest Film Festival x ABFF Global: London is set to return for its 7th annual edition, running from 29 August – 1 September at BFI Southbank, Midlands Arts Centre (Birmingham) and for the first time, the festival expands its footprint to Rich Mix in Shoreditch.
Co-founded by The British Blacklist, We Are Parable and S.O.U.L. Film, in partnership with the American Black Film Festival (ABFF)and founding sponsor Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE), this year’s festival offers an outstanding film lineup, exclusive previews, and special events, all crafted to spotlight the rich vibrancy and diversity of Black cinema from around the globe.
The 7th S.O.U.L Fest Film Festival will feature screenings, masterclasses, exclusive Q&As including:
- Opening night screening of Thriller 40 Acres starring Danielle Deadwyler, directed by R.T Thorne.
- Critically acclaimed documentary Shoot The People by Oscar nominated photographer Misan Harriman and BAFTA/RTS award winning director Andy Mundy Castle.
- New York Film Academy (NYFA) presents Masterclasses with Patrice DeGraff Arenas (ACT IT OUT: Scene Exploration) and Federico Spiazzi (Screenwriting: From Character to Plot) at Rich Mix.
- Screen Alliance Wales and Bad Wolf spotlight emerging talent from the Wolf Pack trainee programme, presented by SPE.
- SPE showcases five acclaimed short films from South Africa.
- Special screening of British/Ghanaian comedy feature The Fisherman at Rich Mix.
- Networking breakfast hosted by Freemantle.
In addition, S.O.U.L Fest will feature shorts from emerging talents in London and Birmingham, showcasing the next generation of filmmakers. The festival will screen a selection of the very best short films from Black British filmmakers and announce the 2025 S.O.U.L. Fest x ABFF Global: London Award winners.
Iyare Igiehon, Director of the SOUL Film Festival, said:
“It’s an incredible milestone to see S.O.U.L Fest enter its seventh year. What began as a bold vision to celebrate Black British talent has grown into a powerful platform that continues to inspire, connect and elevate. Each year, we’ve seen the festival evolve, and this seventh edition is a testament to the creativity, resilience and brilliance of our community. I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.”
Nicole Friday, Producer of the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) & President, NICE CROWD commented:
“ABFF Global: London reflects our ongoing commitment to celebrating Black creatives and expanding opportunities for international collaboration. Our partnership with S.O.U.L. Fest amplifies this mission by connecting global audiences to dynamic stories and visionary filmmakers from the UK, the U.S., and beyond. We’re proud to stand alongside partners who share our dedication to creative excellence and cultural impact.”
The 2025 Impact award will be given to Miranda Wayland, CEO Creative Diversity Network (CDN). This award is in acknowledgement for her outstanding contribution to diversity. She has been a driving force and pioneer for diversity in broadcasting at CDN, BBC, Amazon, and ITV.
Miranda Wayland, CEO Creative Diversity Network (CDN) said:
“Being recognised with this award is humbling and deeply affirming. But this honour belongs to every voice amplified, door held open, and barrier dismantled through the roles that I’ve had and the partners I’ve worked with. As a Black woman leading the Creative Diversity Network at the heart of UK broadcasting, I carry the privilege and responsibility of driving systemic change. This award recognises that true representation is rooted in how we use our power to create change for others.”
For a celebration of Black cinema that promises to inspire and entertain tickets will be on sale at 11am on Friday 8 Aug:
For information on the programme visit https://www.soulfilmfest.co.uk/
For press enquiries, please contact:
Marina Forsythe from M2elevate
[email protected] Mobile: +44(0) 7595 979 889
NOTES TO EDITORS
About SOUL Film Festival: The SOUL Film Festival is dedicated to showcasing the best in Black cinema, providing a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers. Our mission is to celebrate the richness of Black culture and storytelling through the power of film.
About We Are Parable: We Are Parable is a multi-award-winning company that provides audiences with opportunities to experience Black cinema and TV in culturally relevant, memorable, and unique ways. Founded in 2013, We Are Parable is dedicated to supporting filmmakers and championing new voices in film through exhibition, distribution, and mentorship opportunities.
About The British Blacklist: The British Blacklist is a media platform that celebrates the work of UK-based Black creatives and those of the wider Diaspora across Screen, Stage, Literature, and Sound. Since 2012, it has been the go-to platform for information about the exciting work of UK-based Black storytellers, from new talent to established household names.
About Soul Film: Soul Film is a platform with the mission to make the British film and TV industry more diverse by celebrating and connecting filmmakers and audiences from The Global Major.
About NICE CROWD
NICE CROWD is a pioneering live events company at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and tourism. The company produces immersive festivals, awards shows, and destination-based experiences across major U.S. cities and international markets—driving meaningful economic impact for partners. Best known for its flagship property, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), NICE CROWD has grown into a global brand with deep expertise in event production, audience engagement, and strategic partnerships. By spotlighting groundbreaking artists and cultural innovators, NICE CROWD creates dynamic spaces that resonate with today’s audiences and invites brands and media partners to join in championing creative excellence on a global stage.
