The Kamloops Black Film Festival, which ran from February 15 to 17, marked a significant milestone for the Kamloops community, offering a platform to showcase Black storytelling and culture. Organized by the Kamloops Film Society in collaboration with the Kamloops Caribbean Cultural Society and Valid Dreams Foundation, the festival featured a diverse selection of six films that resonated with audiences.

Reflecting on the success of the inaugural event, Mary Falade, a key organizer, highlighted the strong turnout and community involvement. Local models, singers, and even a comedian from Vancouver contributed to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. The most popular films, “Cool Runnins” and “Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse,” attracted audiences of all ages, with special school screenings for “Cool Runnins” proving especially impactful for students who might not have otherwise seen the film.

The festival’s success has paved the way for future editions, with organizers keen to make it an annual event. The importance of such events in providing spaces for the Black community was emphasized, indicating a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity in Kamloops.

The festival’s venue, the Paramount Theater, served as a central hub for the screenings, showcasing the commitment of the Kamloops Film Society to bring diverse cinema to the community. While the exact attendance numbers are still being calculated, the festival’s impact on the growing diversity of Kamloops is undeniable, with Mary noting the city’s evolving Black community.

Looking ahead, the organizers are optimistic about Kamloops’ future as a destination for cultural exchange and celebration. The festival’s success reflects the city’s growing diversity and its potential to become a hub for the Black community in the future. The Kamloops Black Film Festival has not only provided a platform for Black storytelling but has also contributed to the city’s cultural landscape, marking a significant moment in its history.

  Kamloops BC