jeff-friday_web.jpgMIAMI — Film Life, Inc., in partnership with the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency (SEOPW CRA) and Miami Commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones, has announced the kickoff of the ABFF-SEOPW CRA Community Showcase, calling for Miami filmmakers to submit films for this year’s showcase titled Films Over Miami.

The showcase, highlighting Miami’s emerging filmmakers, is set for Sunday, June 23 at the Colony Theatre in Miami Beach during the 17th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF), June 19 – 23.

Showcase submissions must be received by May 10 at ABFF Films Over Miami Submission, c/o Film Life, P.O. Box 1975, New York, NY 10113. Films submitted after the deadline will not be accepted or reviewed by the ABFF Screening Panel. For submission requirements or other information visit miamicra.com/seopwcra, abff.com or call 646-375-2144.

Selected films will be premiered at Films Over Miami, the ABFF-SEOPW CRA Community Showcase at the Colony Theatre on June 23, as part of the 17th annual American Black Film Festival. The winners also would receive passes to attend events at the festival and be highlighted in a post-festival release.

The ABFF, a property of Film Life, Inc., is a five-day retreat and international film market dedicated to strengthening the black filmmaking community and promoting cultural diversity within the motion picture industry. Through its film showcases and special contests, it annually introduces the top echelon of emerging artists to the film and television industry.

The ABFF-SEOPW CRA Community Showcase was launched in 2009 with the goal of promoting Miami’s local film industry talents and the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Area to prospective investors and festival attendees alike. This year, organizers say, the showcase will also make information available to local youths regarding the disciplines and career opportunities that exist within the motion picture industry.