SOULFest

SOULFest The UK’s best Black film festival an annual celebration Black British talent in film & TV

13/04/2026

Joy doesn't aim to change your vision. If she connects with your work, her mission is to elevate it, helping you become a better filmmaker while preserving your unique voice and authenticity.

13/04/2026

This is truly fantastic advice for filmmakers! Art should make us feel something, connecting people and sharing experiences. It's about that emotional resonance, not necessarily grandeur.

Great news: the S.O.U.L.Fest submission deadline has been extended until Monday, April 20th!

03/04/2026

Imagine seeing vibrant, creative young Black characters gallivanting across London, exploring bougie cocktail bars and art galleries. This film felt incredibly special, not just for its beauty, but because these characters were safe, embraced by an abundance of love.

02/04/2026

Writing for children's TV offers a unique path for writers, especially when starting out. It provides financial stability and the incredible opportunity to see your creations brought to life by a dedicated team. Witnessing the animation process firsthand, from a simple idea like a lion turning into a whale, reveals the immense effort involved and fuels the passion to create more.

25/03/2026

Starting out felt insane, sending film ideas to the BBC with no response! At the same time, the creative freedom, joy, and a punk energy—shooting on a bus without a second thought - that's true happiness.

23/03/2026

It all began for us in the UK at S.O.U.L Fest! Returning here feels like coming home. We felt seen, empowered, and ready to create again. Remember, film submissions for S.O.U.L Fest close April 13th, 2026!

21/03/2026

Starting with a burning question, a powerful image, or a single word can ignite your creative process. For many, it's about imagining a specific person—like a young Black woman—and giving her the voice she deserves. What would she say if she could speak now?

19/03/2026

The journey to film festivals like SoulFest involves tough choices. When faced with expensive options like Venice and ABFF, prioritizing is key. Asking yourself 'Why am I doing this work? Who is it for? Where do I want it seen?' helps guide the decision. Sometimes, a valuable win at one festival is better than spreading resources too thin.

17/03/2026

Feeling lost after a setback?
Remember Joan's mom's profound advice: 'Your work does not belong to one building or one person. Your work, my dear, is global.' This perspective shift can illuminate new paths forward.

You can watch the full episode on our Youtube channel or wherever you listen to podcasts!

22/02/2026

Multiple rejections with the word 'fragile' felt strange. It wasn't about being too strong, but not fragile enough. This industry's narrow view can be deeply depleting, revealing a harsh reality.

21/02/2026

Don't feel irritated by the industry. Instead, think about the vast Black female experience. If 80% of those stories remain unseen, that's an incredible opportunity. We've only just begun to explore.

21/02/2026

When we tell a Black experience in a British boarding school, it unexpectedly resonates across America, Africa, and the UK. Specificity can unlock universality. It's about listening, giving voice, and illustrating visually so our worlds feel smaller and we understand who belongs.

Address

BFI Southbank, Belvedere Road
South Bank
SW18XT

Website

https://filmfreeway.com/SOULFest

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