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