The annual XL Film Festival took place in Chicago’s Hyde Park this past weekend. Organized by Creative Cypher, this 3-day festival, reached new heights this year.
Created and owned by filmmaker Troy Pryor, this 3-day film festival was designed to bring together Black filmmakers from around the world. The event aimed to foster networking, education, and empowerment for the next generation of creatives. Throughout the weekend, participants engaged in diverse activities, including movie screenings, pitch competitions, fireside chats, and star-studded panel discussions.
Let’s delve into the panel discussions. An array of valuable insights was shared on Saturday, with numerous engaging panel discussions.
First up, the discussion centered on the Dream Keepers and Dreamers, spearheaded by Destiny Outreach founder Danita Patterson. It provided a platform to highlight youth-focused organizations that foster connections with young creatives. The conversation included Christopher Crater from The Obama Foundation and My Brothers Keeper, Deanna McLeary-Sherman co-founder of True Star Media, Karl Kemp of The Common Ground Foundation, and Black Girls Film Camp Founders Dr. Jimmeka Anderson and Sierra Davis. The Dream Keepers and Dreamers panel was both inspiring and empowering, offering attendees the chance to explore the programs and educate young creators about the significance of cultivating a supportive community of opportunities among other Black creatives.
The festival catered to a wide range of film-making creatives, including those in the animation and gaming industry. It featured Oscar award-winning film producers like Jimmy Thomas, as well as industry heavyweights such as Camille Eden, formerly of Nickelodeon, and Nik Stewart, known as the face of Queen Sheeva in the Mortal Combat game.
Guiding a conversation surrounding the comedy community, moderator Leon Rodgers spoke with comedians B Cole, Melissa Duprey, Christal Luster and Chicago’s Korporate, shedding light on the industry experience of comedians and influencers.
Media personality Val Warner sat down with the cast of the popular TV series “The Chi”, giving insight on the show’s success. The interview also included a Q&A session, providing filmmakers with the opportunity to ask questions and gain insight into the inner workings of Hollywood.
Rounding out the evening was an exclusive chat with the Tate Brothers. Moderated by Portia King, this conversation touched on the brothers working together, learning the business, and their foundation, Tate Bros Foundation. The conversation provided filmmakers with a wealth of gems, offering the opportunity to understand how they can affect change and create a network by working alongside their peers.
While lack of representation continues to have a negative impact on Black stories in Hollywood, XL Film Festival has stepped up to provide the change that is desperately needed for Black filmmakers. As XL Film Festival continues to grow, the network it provides is sure to bring forth a generation of storytellers who can now have the space to thrive in Hollywood.
In addition to the panels, the festival partnered with several media outlets including WHATS THE WORD and sneaker store Sneakerville 88 for exclusive access to the festival and onsite interviews. For more information on XL Film Festival, visit xlfest.org.
