Okema T. Moore’s ‘Laundry’ And Ian Phillips’ ‘Reconciliation’ Among Black & Unlimited Fatherhood Project Winners At ABFF
The 29th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is set to return to Miami Beach from June 11-15, 2025, continuing its mission to amplify Black storytelling. This year, Laundry by Okema T. Moore and Reconciliation by Ian Phillips were among the winners of the Black & Unlimited Fatherhood Project Director’s competition, presented by Nice Crowd and Walmart.
The competition celebrates the narratives of Black fathers, highlighting their experiences as leaders and role models. George Tillman, Jr. will return to ABFF as a mentor, offering guidance to the emerging filmmakers. Each winning director will receive a $10,000 cash award, industry mentorship, and a screening at the festival. The films will also be available on ABFF PLAY and Walmart’s YouTube channel from June 16-24.
The top three films—Laundry, Reconciliation, and Freshman. Again.—will premiere at ABFF, followed by a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Brandon Frame of The Black Man Can.
Founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, ABFF remains a vital platform for Black creatives, showcasing powerful stories and fostering the next generation of filmmakers.
2025 Black & Unlimited Fatherhood Project Winning Films
“Laundry” *World premiere
After his son’s tragic accident, a husband struggles to save his marriage and himself, until a chance encounter at a laundromat shows him that even in grief, hope and healing can all come out in the wash.
USA – 18m 50s
Director: Okema T. Moore
Writer: Alterik Miller
Producers: Alterik Miller, Okema T. Moore, Wink Woodall
Cast: Danielle Monè Truitt, Tobias Truvillion, Aaron Kingsley Adetola
“Reconciliation” *World premiere
A young man reconnects with his father after many years of distance.
USA – 16m 07s
Director: Ian Phillips
Writer: Ian Phillips
Producers: Ian Phillips
Cast: Elijah Gbotoe, Nathan Gbotoe, Gershan McKenzie
“Freshman. Again.”
Learning has no age limit.
USA – 20m
Director: Aji Bass
Writer: Geeta Gandbhir
Producers: Mikha Grumet, Geeta Gandbhir
Cast: Lenny Bass, Deva Grumet Bass
