Dedicated to integrating the work of independent African-American filmmakers into the mainstream, the San Francisco Black Film Festival has become an established forum for rising artists and industry innovators over its six years of existence. Presenting not only cinema (over 60 films), but also numerous award ceremonies, nightlife events and after parties featuring live music, the SFBFF offers a whirlwind of enlightening entertainment over the course of five days.

The festival kicks off Wednesday night with a gala opening party at the Brava Theater Center in the Mission (at 2789 24th Street) with Northern California premiere of Sudz Sutherland's 'Love, Sex and Eating the Bones,' an edgy, provocative urban comedy Hill Harper (who has appeared in 'The Handler' as well as 'The Sopanos'). Harper will be making a guest appearance at the party. Another highlight of the festival will be the presentation of Melvin Van Peebles Maverick Award (named in honor of the independent film pioneer who made 'Watermelon Man' and 'Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song') on Friday night. The event will also feature a screening of director Isaac Julien's documentary on blaxploitation films entitled 'Baadasssss Cinema' and a silent auction for the limited edition book 'The Greatest of All Times (GOAT)/A Tribute to Muhammad Ali' overseen by the boxer's daughter, Laila Ali.

Noted San Francisco filmmaker Kevin Epps ('Straight Outta Hunters Point') will be onhand for the Saturday evening world premiere of his anticipated second film 'Rap Dreams,' which focuses on the struggles of local MCs Kev Kelly, Hectic and Mr. FAB. The festival also presents the youth-oriented Urban Kidz program at the African American Art and Culture Complex (762 Fulton Street), offering screenings, workshops and a behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking industry geared towards getting children interested in filmmaking. The SFBFF winds down to a close with the festival’s final screening and Northern California premiere of the 'One Love' (featuring Bob Marley’s son Ky-mani in the lead role) at the BRAVA Theater Sunday night with a reggae afterparty to follow. For a complete schedule of films and events, please visit the official San Francisco Black Film Festival Web site.