A Global Platform for African Storytelling
Africa's creative industries are increasingly connected to global audiences, creating new opportunities for filmmakers, artists and cultural entrepreneurs to share African stories with the world.
HOLLYWOOD AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL
Imagine Freedom
Two days of bold African cinema, brought to life in Los Angeles, Johannesburg and Cape Town. Come for the stories of culture, identity, history and freedom, and stay to celebrate the new voices and visionaries shaping how the world sees Africa.
About the Festival
Why an African Film Festival in Hollywood?
Celebrating Cultural Diversity
As conversations around cultural identity, diversity and multiculturalism continue to grow globally, African filmmakers have an opportunity to contribute authentic perspectives and showcase the continent's diverse cultures, experiences and creativity.
Connecting Africa to the World
Digital platforms, streaming and global media networks have made it easier than ever for African films and creative content to reach international audiences. The festival aims to strengthen these connections by creating opportunities for collaboration, networking, distribution and international exposure.
Empowering a Global African Generation
Young Africans are increasingly global in outlook, studying, working and building businesses across different countries and continents. The festival provides a space for this generation to connect through film, culture, creativity and shared experiences.
Why Hollywood?
Hollywood is a globally recognised centre of film and entertainment. Hosting an African film festival here creates a bridge between African talent and the international film industry, connecting filmmakers, audiences, producers, investors and creative professionals.
To bring African stories to global audiences, connect African talent with international opportunities, and celebrate Africa's diverse creative voice through film.
Script to Screen Competition
Script to Screen
The 2026 HAFF is devoted to finding the best screenplays from around the world and offering their authors a writing workshop and mentorship with industry professionals.
Three feature film screenplays, one pilot screenplay and one short film screenplay are chosen from submissions to take part in one-on-one mentorship meetings. Winners get notes on their screenplay, build meaningful relationships with their mentors, and network with the filmmakers and industry insiders who attend the festival every year.
Script to Screen is a place for new, bold and raw voices, and it gives you an in-depth look behind the curtain of filmmaking.
Learn More & Submit
The Prize
Finalists are invited to attend the festival for a reading of their scripts, performed by actors in front of an invited audience. The winning script, if filmed, is guaranteed to screen at the 2027 Hollywood African Film Festival.
Eligibility
- All genres welcome
- Scripts must be under 30 pages
- Original scripts that have not started film production
Who It's For
The competition is intended to help emerging screenwriters and filmmakers break into the industry. It is not for established professional writers.
Locations
Our Venues
The festival takes place across Los Angeles, Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Los Angeles
27 — 28 April 2027Venue TBA
Johannesburg
27 — 28 November 2026Venue TBA
Cape Town
11 — 12 December 2026Venue TBA
Partner Institution
American Arts Academy
Where commerce and creativity come together to build strong and vibrant communities.
The American Arts Academy equips students to become critical thinkers, problem solvers and responsible citizens through an appreciation of the arts, with programmes including the Cultural Diplomacy Institute and Speak Like Obama.
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