LOS ANGELES, CA (September 22, 2025) – NICE CROWD, the company behind the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), today announced the programming slate for the upcoming ABFF Pop Up Tour in New York City taking place at AMC Lincoln Square 13 from Saturday, October 25 – Sunday, October 26, 2025. The ABFF Pop Up Tour is a new national initiative, expanding beyond its flagship annual Miami Beach event, bringing the energy, creativity, and community spirit of the acclaimed festival to audiences in select U.S. markets this fall. The 2025 Pop Up Tour is launched with national support from Founding Sponsor Ally Financial.
ABFF New York City Pop Up Programming
More information and all event tickets available via Eventbrite HERE
“Money Wellness and the Creator” with Naturi Naughton, presented by Ally
Saturday, October 25 – 2:15 pm
Ally will host an intimate one-on-one conversation with actress and singer Naturi Naughton to learn about her journey to financial independence and how smart saving, budgeting, and building a healthy relationship with her finances have played a key role. The fireside chat, moderated by Ally’s Erica Hughes, will explore how creativity and money can work in partnership to ignite your best life. Join us for practical tips and insights on thriving as a financially independent creator in the entertainment industry.
The Fisherman Screening Followed by Talkback with Writer and Director Zoey Martinson and Producer Korey Jackson
Saturday, October 25 – 4:50 pm
In Zoey Martinson’s award-winning feast of magical realist comedy, aging Ghanaian Atta Oko sets his sights on finally having his own boat and becoming the envy of his village, he’ll just need help from a talking dead fish first. Winner, 2025 American Black Film Festival Best Narrative Feature and Best Director.
2025 HBO Short Film Showcase Followed by Conversation with Filmmakers, Princess Adenike, Nick Buchheit, and Yasmine Crawley
Saturday, October 25 – 8:30 pm
The 2025 HBO Short Film Showcase spotlights the five finalists from the 29th American Black Film Festival, selected from a pool of thousands. Together, these films reflect the vitality, humor, and complexity of contemporary Black storytelling.
BOB Talks
Sunday, October 26 – 12:00 pm
BOB Talks (Black-Owned Brands) is a panel series celebrating Black entrepreneurship. This edition spotlights New York–based founders and their standout brands, featuring candid conversations on the realities of building a business—from navigating challenges to achieving success. The session offers practical insights and inspiration for the next generation of entrepreneurs. Featured founders include Chaneve Jeanniton of epi.logic and Kim Harris of Harlem Hops. Moderated by: Nicole Friday (President & Co-founder, NICE CROWD).
Fatherless No More Screening Followed by Talkback with Director and Producer Kayla Johnson and Pastor Tim Johnson
Sunday, October 26 – 2:35 pm
Fatherless No More chronicles the remarkable journey of an Orlando-based pastor and former Super Bowl Champion who was driven by a divine calling to move into an RV at a place often deemed hell on earth, Rikers Island.
“A Creator Conversation” with Malcolm D. Lee
Sunday, October 26 – 5:40 pm
Join acclaimed writer, director, and author Malcolm D. Lee (The Best Man, Girls Trip) for an intimate conversation exploring his creative process and celebrated career. From shaping enduring stories of friendship and love to directing box-office comedies that define a generation, Lee has built a body of work that resonates across audiences. This candid discussion will highlight his journey as a filmmaker, the challenges and triumphs behind his success, and his perspective on the evolving landscape of contemporary cinema.
Can You Stand The Rain Screening Followed by Talkback with Director, Writer, and Producer Eden Marryshow
Sunday, October 26 – 8:15 pm
A group of lifelong friends reunite after the sudden death of their childhood anchor, only to confront buried dreams, hidden tensions, long-held regrets — and the truth about who they’ve become… and who they still might be
ABFF Pop Up sponsors and partners to date include Ally Financial (Founding & National Presenting), Andscape (Supporting), AMC Theaters (Screening Venue Partner), New York Film Academy (NYFA) (Industry).
About ABFF Pop Up Tour:
A national tour bringing ABFF programming and spirit to four key U.S. markets.
Founding sponsor: Ally Financial
- New York – October 25–26 | AMC Lincoln Square
- Atlanta – November 8–9 | AMC Madison Yards
- Dallas – November 15–16 | AMC NorthPark
- Los Angeles – December 13–14 | AMC The Grove
About ABFF:
Founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is the premier destination for Black storytelling and a vital platform for emerging talent. ABFF has helped launch the careers of many of today’s most acclaimed filmmakers and actors while advocating for inclusion and representation in Hollywood and beyond.
About NICE CROWD:
NICE CROWD is a pioneering live events company operating at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and tourism. Founded by husband-and-wife team Nicole and Jeff Friday, the company produces festivals, awards shows, and destination-based experiences across major U.S. cities and international markets. At the heart of NICE CROWD is a belief in The Power of Gathering—bringing communities together to celebrate creativity, amplify emerging voices, and spark meaningful connection. The company’s mission is to harness that power to drive cultural relevance and economic impact for its partners. Best known for its flagship property, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), now in its 30th year, the company has evolved into a global brand with deep expertise in event production, audience engagement, and strategic partnerships.
More information about the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Pop Up Tour:
https:// www.abffpopup. com
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