BlackStar Film Festival
BY Kesang Ball
BlackStar Film Festival is the ultimate rendezvous celebrating the brilliance of Black, brown and indigenous directors, who are defying the boundaries of conventional genres.
Across four eclectic days in early August, festival-goers can expect to experience a sensory plunge into narratives based on untold and overlooked stories. It's a space where the avant-garde meets celluloid dreams, offering attendees a rich tapestry of stories and experiences. The films showcased here focus on topics that have been erased from mainstream cinema or are often misunderstood.
For those unable to attend in-person this year, a virtual guide will be available on the festival's site, bringing each film directly to your screen. By doing this, BlackStar is also a global online event, accessible via the internet. Aside from its flagship event, BlackStar hosts exhibitions, filmmaker seminars and a film production lab throughout the year.
BlackStar Film Festival is one of the finalists for Trippin 50, a cultural calendar featuring the best events around the world. Check out the Trippin 50 hub here.
Date and Location
BlackStar Film Festival is taking place in Philadelphia, PA, on 1-4 August 2024.
Weather
In August, Philadelphia experiences warm to hot temperatures, ranging from the mid-20s to mid-30°C with high humidity levels. Expect occasional rain showers or thunderstorms, but overall, the city enjoys a good amount of sunshine during this summer month. Dressing light, staying hydrated and being prepared for brief rain events are advisable when visiting in August.
Price
Tickets or a pass is required for all in-person screenings during the festival. Some events are free and open to the public, but RSVP is required.
Transport
BlackStar Film Festival has convenient public transportation options. The Walnut-Locust Station on the Broad Street Line is the closest subway stop, and Suburban Station serves as a hub for Regional Rail Lines, allowing easy transfers to the Broad Street Line. Additionally, various bus routes and the PATCO High-Speed Line from New Jersey provide accessible and efficient ways to reach the festival venue.
Accommodation
Philadelphia offers Airbnbs and a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.
Accessibility
BlackStar is committed to making its spaces accessible to as many people as possible, including and especially disabled individuals from Black, brown and indigenous communities.
