Black Excellence in Film on Display at Martha’s Vineyard

OAK BLUFFS, Mass. — The 23rd Annual Martha’s Vineyard African-American Film Festival (MVAAFF) opened with a dazzling weekend of storytelling, stardom, and celebration, continuing its legacy as one of the nation's premier showcases of Black cinema.

From August 1 to August 9, 2025, the historic island community of Oak Bluffs draws actors, directors, journalists, and film lovers from around the country—including a few from Atlantic City—who gather for screenings, discussions, and signature events.

"As the festival publicist, I believe Founders Floyd & Stephanie Rance, are extremely proud of the legacy they have built over the years and the amazing lineup of talent the festival has garnered," said Sonya Ede Williams, of SYStrategies & PR. 

Opening weekend, August 1 to August 4, kicked off with a pre-festival special event screening and conversation featuring actors Lynn Whitfield, Luke James, and Yolonda Ross, moderated by Associated Press journalist Johnathan Landrum Jr.

Atlantic City Focus salutes: Lynn Whitfield

Actress Lynn Whitfield visited the Wilmington Public Library on Thursday, June 8, for “An Evening with Actress Lynn Whitfield” sponsored by Delaware Humanities.

Atlantic City FocusMark Tyler

The weekend’s lineup featured a mix of short films, documentaries, and feature-length narratives, each grouped into curated “BLK” blocks:

• Friday’s highlights included Unraveling George, followed by a Q&A with director Michael Jay Tollin and legendary sports columnist William “Bill” Rhoden; and The Dutchman, presented with actor André Holland, actor Aldis Hodge, and director Andre Gaines. The evening crescendos with scenes from Spike Lee's newest film, Highest 2 Lowest. Included was a post-screening conversation featuring Lee, the film's director, Tony Award-winning actress LaChanze, and actors John Douglas Thompson and Ilfenesh Hadera.

Later that evening, the festivities rolled into high gear with the Opening Night Party at 11 Circuit Avenue—a celebration of Black excellence in film that welcomed All Access and Day Pass attendees.

• Saturday offered thought-provoking content such as The Ebony Canal: A Story of Black Infant Health, accompanied by a panel with director Emmai Alaquiva, OB/GYN Dr. Madeline Sutton, and others. The night closed with The Class Reunion, a new feature produced by Lil Rel Howery and directed by Chazitear, plus a late-night screening of Love, Brooklyn.
• Sunday’s lineup showcased films like The Color of Space: Black Women Astronauts and The (M) Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause, with an appearance by Dr. Sharon Malone, chief medical officer of Alloy. The weekend wrapped with Who in the Hell is Regina Jones? and the gripping The Disappearance of Miss Scott.

As Black storytellers continue to shape the narrative of American cinema, MVAAFF continues to be a platform where culture, community, and creativity collide. And, Martha’s Vineyard remains a cherished gathering place for connection, inspiration, and truth-telling on screen.

What can festival goers expect from the entire experience?

"They can expect A-List stars, politicians, influencers, and a plethora of filmmakers of all genres," Williams said.  

For more information, visit www.mvaaff.com.

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