Series

Sam Buckner III and Deante Gray accept the 2025 Best Series award for Sideline Story

Description

A competitive section of short-form series directed by, or written and produced by, persons of African descent. Selected works compete for the Jury Award for Best Series.

Eligibility Criteria

  1. Open to U.S. and international entries.
  2. Directed by, or written and produced by, individuals of African descent.
  3. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older.
  4. Must submit one (1) episode along with a series treatment, and/or series bible.
  5. Episode must not exceed 30 minutes, including credits.
  6. In English or with English subtitles.
  7. Principal photography must be completed on or after January 1, 2025.
  8. Episodes with prior distribution or distribution commitments are not eligible.
  9. Must not have been previously exhibited or licensed for broadcast, cable, or online exhibition prior to ABFF (May 27–31, 2026).

Early deadline: November 7
Final deadline: February 10