IBDFF 2026

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4. KosherSoul

Runtime: 13:00  

Block 1 - (At the Arts Center)

 Ilja Sarro 

KosherSoul documents the creation of a groundbreaking pop-up diner led by culinary historian Michael W. Twitty, bringing together chefs from diverse backgrounds to transform a Black-owned Los Angeles restaurant into a fully kosher kitchen. Through food, collaboration, and shared stories, the film explores the connections between African American, Jewish, and diasporic traditions, revealing how hospitality can foster understanding, community, and cultural exchange.

5.  SuperSHEro: The Journey of Johna Rivers 

Runtime: 14:22

Block 1 - (At the Arts Center)

 Syd Stewart 

  SuperSHEro: The Journey of Johna Rivers is an inspiring documentary that follows Johna Rivers as she transforms personal adversity into a mission of advocacy and community empowerment. Through her own reflections and experiences, the film highlights the resilience, leadership, and determination that drive her work to uplift marginalized voices and inspire girls of color to recognize their strength and potential. 

6.  The A Word: Autism and Acceptance in the Black Community 

Runtime: 17:00 

Block 1 - (At the Arts Center)

  Dr. Jackie Lorrainne

 The A Word: Autism and Acceptance in the Black Community challenges conventional ideas of “normal” by sharing the experiences of Black autistic individuals and their families. Through personal stories and lived experiences, the documentary raises awareness about autism in the Black community while advocating for greater understanding, inclusion, and acceptance.  

 7. Dreams Float Around Us

Runtime: 17:25 

Block 1  - (At the Arts Center)

 Alicia Michele Benjamin

 Dreams Float Around Us is a thought-provoking documentary that explores the experiences of eight Black women in Charlotte, North Carolina, 100 days after the Trump administration came into power for the second time. Through candid conversations about their challenges, aspirations, and resilience, the film offers a powerful reflection on identity, community, and hope in uncertain times as these women answer the question, “How does it feel to be a Black woman in 2025?” 

12.  Miracles: The Redd Family Collection of Black Art

Runtime: 47:55

Block 3 - (At the Arts Center)

 Mikael Owunna, Marques Redd

 This documentary tells the inspiring story of Miracles Fine Art, a pioneering gallery founded by Melgenia and Vernon Redd that became a vital space for celebrating and preserving Black art and culture in Macon, Georgia. Through their children's efforts, the film traces the journey of the gallery’s remarkable collection, highlighting the importance of preserving artistic and cultural legacies for the future. 

13.  The Book of Ahmad 

Runtime: 60:00

Block 3 - (At the Arts Center)

 Ian Phillips

    The Book of Ahmad follows Adhemar Ahmad, a New York artist who has spent decades pursuing his creative dreams while struggling to make ends meet. As years of hardship test his faith and determination, the documentary captures his perseverance, artistic passion, and the possibility of a long-awaited breakthrough that could transform his life. 

14.  Where's My Coffee Cup

Runtime: 30:00

Block 4 - (At the Arts Center)

    Yehuda Sharim 

 Where’s My Coffee Cup? follows John, a 64-year-old man growing old behind bars while confronting the physical, emotional, and systemic challenges of aging in prison. Through his story, the film sheds light on the realities faced by elderly incarcerated individuals and raises important questions about dignity, compassion, and justice within the legal system.

 15.  Touched: The Story of Nicholas Freeman 

Runtime: 01:02:22

Block 4  - (At the Arts Center)

  Kyrica Renee

 Touched is a powerful documentary that honors the life and legacy of Nicholas Freeman, whose unexpected passing at age 37 inspired his family and community to reflect on love, loss, and resilience. Through personal stories and expert insight, the film explores the impact of health inequities and the importance of self-advocacy, transforming one family's grief into a powerful call for awareness and change. 

20.  Rectify My Cry: The Samuel F. Yette Story

Runtime: 01:09:32

Block 7 - (At the Kan Kan)

 Ingrid Kelley 

 This documentary explores the life and legacy of pioneering journalist Samuel F. Yette, whose groundbreaking book The Choice: The Issue of Black Survival in America challenged systemic racism and government policies affecting Black Americans. Through interviews, the documentary examines Yette's courageous pursuit of truth, the personal and professional consequences he faced, and the lasting impact of his work on journalism and social justice. 

21.  Ku Handza 

Runtime: 01:15:15

Block 8 - (At the Kan Kan)

   André Guiomar 

    Ku Handza weaves together the stories of families navigating the challenges of daily life, resilience, and survival. Through the experiences of a father working to celebrate his son’s birthday, a soldier striving to stay connected to his daughters, and a mother balancing a growing family with the demands of work, the film offers an intimate portrait of perseverance in the face of economic hardship.

22.  The Banjo Boys

Runtime: 01:16:00

Block 9 - (At the Kan Kan)

  Johan R Nayar 

 The Banjo Boys follows the remarkable journey of Malawi’s Madalitso Band, a duo whose homemade instruments and infectious sound take them from performing on the streets of Lilongwe to stages around the world. Blending music, perseverance, and friendship, the documentary explores how passion and resilience help overcome personal and professional challenges while showcasing the power of music to connect people across cultures.

 23.  Deliver Us

Runtime: 01:21:00

Block 10 - (At the Kan Kan)

  Randi Matthews

 In the United States, Black mothers are dying in childbirth at staggering rates. While the hospital establishment continues to fail them, Black midwives around the country are fighting back, opening birth centers and demanding justice for Black mothers. Deliver Us follows visionary Black midwives as they battle to change laws, leverage social media to raise awareness and force change, and protect mothers' lives while delivering babies. 

28.   And She Didn’t Die

Runtime: 01:42:00

Block 15 - (At the Kan Kan)

  Kethiwe Zandile Ngcobo

 And She Didn't Die follows the extraordinary journey of Lauretta Ngcobo, from rural South Africa to an acclaimed feminist writer in exile. This documentary defies the erasure of Black women like Lauretta from history. The film highlights a five-generation storytelling tradition, emphasizing cultural continuity across generations.