Editor

In less than a week African- Canadian film makers will soon have a brand new home to showcase their works when the first annual Canadian Black Film Festival (CBFF) debuts in Toronto from September 25-27.  

This historical event marks the only festival in Canada dedicated to celebrating the many works of African-Canadian or Diaspora Film Makers, which often go unseen in Canadian theatres.  With select films from around the globe and a strong first year focus on Canadian talent, showcasing a plethora of genres, black cultures, and experiences, CBFF is filling a cultural void in the Canadian landscape.

The Honourable Lincoln M. Alexander will make a special appearance at a closing night tribute ceremony, hosted by Michael ‘Pinball’ Clemons and featuring an array of dignitaries and industry guests, to recognise the achievements of Canada’s first black MP and Lieutenant Governor. The Canadian theatrical premiere of the film on his life, A Linc in Time, directed by emerging Canadian talent, Nicole Brooks, will also be presented during this closing night gala, taking place on September 27 (6.30pm) at Ryerson University.

Screenings for this three-day extravaganza will take place at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), Ryerson University, and the National Film Board (NFB). Key features include works from Trey Anthony, playwright and creator of Da Kink in My Hair  and will also feature the Toronto premiere of Jamie and Eddie : Souls of Strife by Ottawa-based director and winner of the 2009 Action on Film Award in L.A, Pascal Aka (screening Sunday 27 September, 2pm, Ryerson University). CBFF will open on Friday September 25th with a double bill extravaganza of two award-winning films, The Tenant by Toronto-based Lucky Ejim and The Black Candle by M.K. Asante Jr (Ryerson University, 6.30pm and 9.30pm.

Key Highlights

Friday, September 25

Opening Night Double Bill - Celebration 2009! The Tenant (Lucky Ejim), 6.30pm, The Black Candle, 9.30pm (M.K. Asante Jr ) George Vari Eng.103, Ryerson University

Saturday, September 26

CBFF and Planet Africa Television/AfriCan present Nollywood Blockbusters, starting from 11am, Jackman Theatre, Art Gallery of Ontario

Saturday, September 26

CBFF and Schools Without Borders Present - Youth on Camera Showcase, starting from 1pm, National Filmboard Mediatheque

Sunday, September 27

Pascal Aka's award-winning Jamie and Eddie:Souls of Strife , 2.30pm, Library 72, Ryerson University

Sunday, September 27

Embracing Da Kink and Secrets of a Black Boy, Trey Anthony Tribute , 4pm, Jackman Theatre, Art Gallery of Ontario

Sunday, September 27

CBFF presents ‘A Linc in Time', tribute ceremony to Lincoln Alexander, 6.30pm, Library 72, Ryerson University

Full for the full festival line-up, please visit www.cbff.ca and select ‘Film Festival'.

Tickets - $10!

Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.cbff.ca (box office)

or in person, Monday- Friday (10am to 5pm) from the below address: