The 4th Annual Oak Park Black Film Festival (OPBFF) returned to the historic Guild Theater from October 7–12, bringing six days of powerful storytelling, inspiring conversations, and community celebration. The festival once again served as a platform to elevate African-American filmmakers and highlight diverse perspectives through cinema.

This year’s lineup featured an impressive mix of independent films, documentaries, and shorts. Each evening was hosted by a different moderator and included special guest appearances by prominent figures from sports, film, and media. There were also nightly VIP receptions at Oak Park restaurants including Oaxaca, La Venadita, Butterscotch Den, Oak Park Brewing Co., and Fixins Soul Kitchen.

Among the highlights were a conversation with track & field Olympian Allyson Felix and showing  the documentary She Runs the World,  as well as discussions with NBA legend Bill Cartwright, actor and filmmaker Nate Parker. and author Shaka Senghor. Local talent also took center stage, with Sacramento-area filmmakers presenting their work during “Local Films Day” to open the festival.

The festival culminated on Sunday, October 12, with an awards ceremony honoring standout films and filmmakers who exemplified creativity, impact, and cultural storytelling.

2025 Oak Park Black Film Festival Winners

Best Local Film:
Moses — Directed by Fran Guajarro

Best Feature Film:
Love Offside — Directed by Dale S. Lewis

Best Short Film:
Zeke — Directed by Kerry Coddett

Best Documentary:
She Runs the World — Directed by Perri Peltz & Matthew O’Neill

Founders Award:
ADO — Directed by Sam Henderson

Viewer’s Choice Award:
Love is Blind — Directed by Parnielle Walker

Based on this year’s success we have opened sales for VIP tickets for next year. Get your tickets today!