RETURNING IN 2025
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EDUCATE, ENTERTAIN, & INSPIRE
This year we are highlighting the importance of sharing and celebrating Joy within the Black community and beyond. The celebration of positivity, freedom, and the fulfillment of being yourself.
The Denton Black Film Festival has grown into a five-day event that allows you, our guest, to immerse yourself in some of the best artistic showcases of cinema, music, spoken word, art and more.Â
We are an INCLUSIVE festival- We celebrate with everyone as we showcase Black Culture!
#DBFF #ExperienceCulture
What to Expect
OPENING NIGHT FILM SCREENING
GOING TO MARS: THE NIKKI GIOVANNI PROJECT
Screening in Denton & Dallas
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This film travels through time and space to reveal the enduring influence of Nikki Giovanni, one of America’s greatest living poets and social commentators. Giovanni reckons with the inevitable passing of time through intimate vérité, striking archival footage, and visually innovative treatments of her poetry, revealing the lasting impact of Giovanni’s work on American culture.
DBFF 2024 EXPERIENCES:
ART EXPERIENCE
COMEDY EXPERIENCE
SPOKEN WORD EXPERIENCE
2024 FILM GUIDE
PRE-FESTIVAL KICKOFF
FESTIVAL VENUES
Campus Theater
The Campus Theatre, originally an Interstate Movie Theatre, was built in 1949. It's DBFF marquee designated the go-to photo spot by festival goers, the Campus Theatre was purchased by the Arts Council and re-opened as a central location for the performing arts groups in Denton in 1990. Today the Campus Theatre is recognized as a Texas historical landmark.
Alamo Drafthouse Denton
Built in 2018, Alamo serves as a main check point for DBFF. Enjoy a comfortable moving going experience with 8 auditoriums featuring 4k screenings with 3D capabilities, luxury recliner chairs, and food and drink delivered directly to your seat. Connect & socialize between screenings at the Vetted Well attached beer/cocktail lounge.
Vinyl Lounge
DBFF partnered location for late night drinks, music, and dancing! 2,700-square-foot record-themed bar lounge located in downtown Denton.
Denton Civic Center
Historic Denton Civic Center centrally located near downtown Denton in beautiful Quakertown Park.
ART EXPERIENCE
Art ExperienceFeaturing contemporary artists Ja'Tovia Gary and Lauren Kelley. 2024 DBFF Art Director Vicki MeekImmerse yourself in some of the best artistic showcases of Black cinema, music, spoken word, art and more. See the highlights, film guide, and "festival experience" paths at dentonbff.com/film-festivalDATE/TIMEArt Opening | Saturday, January 27th, 2024 at 2-4pmFOLLOW US
TICKETS$FreeLOCATIONEast / West Galleries
PATTERSON-APPLETON ARTS CENTER (GDAC)
The Patterson-Appleton Arts Center is truly the arts engine of Denton. Built in 1929 and located between Denton’s Downtown Square and emerging innovation district, this historic building was originally the city’s steam power plant. Renovated in the 1980s, the centerpiece of the venue is Festival Hall, a 5000 square foot event and exhibition space with soaring ceilings and original industrial hardware.
Steve’s Wine Bar
DBFF partnered location for late night live music! Steve's is a fun and relaxing wine bar (and beer) located in Downtown Denton.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
General FAQ
The Denton Black Film Festival is celebrating 10 years! Each year growing larger. The visiting audience is diverse and welcome to all regardless of age, race, gender, or creed. There’s something for everyone as we showcase Black culture.
The Denton Black Film Festival is located at various venues in downtown Denton, Texas. Most venues are within walking distance. Locations include: NCTC, Margo Jones Performance Hall at TWU, UNT on the square, Campus Theater, Denton Civic Center and more.
We have a list of local hotels of various rates in order to make your DBFF planning visit experience a lot easier. Compare rates and pay attention to cutoff dates to discount rates for reservations. https://dentonbff.com/film-festival/lodging/
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