The 5th annual American Black Film Festival honors returned to Hollywood and brought out some of the biggest names in the game.
Like Kerry Washington, Courtney B. Vance, Janelle Monàe, Kasi Lemmons, Malinda Williams, Elise Neal, Harold Perrineau, Victoria Rowell and more.
The hilarious Tiffany Haddish was present for the occasion.
“This ceremony is super important because it’s us highlighting each other,” Haddish said. “Sometimes it takes you to point out your friend popping so other people know your friend is popping.”
Actress Elise Neal shared how long ABFF has been in the making as she’s been there from the start with founders of ABFF Jeff & Nicole Friday.
Speaking of roles, Haddish also shared when she knows a role is the right choice for her.
“What I’ve learned since 2014, is that when it resonates through my whole body, I call it the the three yes-es,” Haddish said. “When it feels right in my mind, my heart and my root chakra then I notice it’s something in my gut, I know this is something I should do. That’s how I got about “Girl’s Trip,” that’s how I felt about “Night School,” and many of the other projects that you have seen since then. Like “The Caramichael Show,” and different things that I’ve done. Does it feel good throughout my whole body? If I’m reading this and it doesn’t feel good throughout my whole body I won’t do it.”
“When Jeff Friday decided this is what he wanted to do I was right there,” Neal said. “I was one of the first people who supported and got the word out. Back when I was doing “The Hughleys.”
“From” star Corteon Moore was amazed.
“To be surrounded by so many Black, beautiful faces, so many Black artists, so many Black business leaders, you don’t get this as often as I wish we did,” Moore said. “Tonight is a very special, a very gracious and very beautiful magical place to be and I’m so excited.”
“The Best Man” and “From” star Harold Perrineau felt welcomed.
“You’re in a place where you don’t feel like you’re the “other.” You feel like you’re a part of the conversation that’s actually happening. It’s a beautiful thing to be a part of,” said Perrineau.
The legendary actress, producer and writer Victoria Rowell shared the importance of ABFF Honors.
“Celebrating cinema, excellent wiring, directing, producing, acting, all things in front and behind the camera, being a part of an ensemble cast,” said Rowell. “This incredible movie has resonated around the world “Eve’s Bayou,” I’m really proud to be a part of it and to be celebrated tonight.”
The amazing and wonderful Javicia Leslie shared what her dream role would be.
“I love action,” Leslie said. “We need to black up Lara Croft. I wanna do “Tomb Raider.” I want to be “Tomb Raider.” I am going to be “Tomb Raider,” I’m speaking it out into existence.”
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