MIAMI BEACH, Fla. \u2014 The American Black Film Festival has kicked off in Miami Beach.<\/p>\n
For 30 years, the festival has been a home for storytelling right here in South Florida. <\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s so important for representation to have these platforms that are just all about us because you never know whose mind and perception you\u2019re gonna change with the diversity with the examples of not onscreen jobs and opportunities behind the scenes,\u201d said singer and actress Coco Jones. <\/p>\n
It\u2019s a festival that has welcomed creators, industry pros, and dreamers, making it possible for new voices to be seen and heard. <\/p>\n
The premiere of \u201cStrung\u201d marked the start of this year\u2019s celebration, with the stars of the film hitting the red carpet. <\/p>\n
Singer and actress Chloe Bailey stars in Malcolm D. Lee\u2019s new thriller.<\/p>\n
She plays a talented violinist whose new role as a music tutor for an elite family turns into a psychological battle for her safety.<\/p>\n
The film is expected to premiere June 26, but those in attendance at the festival got an early preview.<\/p>\n
At the premiere, Bailey revealed what she\u2019s most excited for viewers to see.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere\u2019s a lot of twist and turns and mess, and you\u2019ll be fully indulged,\u201d she said. \u201cThat\u2019s what I love about it.\u201d<\/p>\n
Beyond the glam, ABFF has been a gateway, providing access to aspiring filmmakers and building bridges across the industry, and what better to honor three decades of thriving than with a homecoming on Miami Beach.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt feels phenomenal,\u201d Bailey said. <\/p>\n