Denton Black Film Festival sets 2027 theme and dates

The Denton Black Film Festival will return Jan. 27-31, 2027, in Denton, Texas, with virtual programming running through Feb. 7 and Creative Connect events across the state. The festival’s new theme, “Together We Make,” centers collaboration as DBFF opens submissions and expands its Road to DBFF outreach.

Why it matters: - DBFF is the largest Black film festival in Texas and the Southwest. - The festival bills itself as the first major Black film festival of the year in the United States, giving it an early spot in the annual arts calendar. - The 2027 theme, “Together We Make,” underscores the festival’s focus on community-driven storytelling and creative collaboration.

What happened: - DBFF announced its 2027 festival theme, dates and submission window. - The festival will take place in Denton, Texas, from Jan. 27-31, 2027. - Virtual programming will continue through Feb. 7, 2027. - Creative Connect events will also take place statewide across Texas. - DBFF is now accepting film and screenplay submissions through FilmFreeway.

The details: - The festival is building toward 2027 with a fall campaign called Road to DBFF. - Road to DBFF will spotlight creative people, communities and relationships tied to the festival. - Creative Connect gatherings have already been held in San Antonio, Austin, Waco and Houston since June. - DBFF says additional Road to DBFF events will be announced later. - Submission categories include Narrative Features, Documentary Features, Short Narrative Films, Short Documentary Films, Original Music Videos, College Student Shorts, Texas High School Student Shorts and Texas Short Screenplays. - The regular submission deadline is Oct. 15, 2026. - The extended deadline is Nov. 4, 2026. - Notification date is Dec. 4, 2026. - Full eligibility guidelines and submission details are available at the festival’s submission page. - Sponsorship opportunities are also available for the 2027 festival and the Road to DBFF tour.

Between the lines: - The theme and outreach campaign suggest DBFF is leaning into participation beyond screenings, using statewide events to widen its creative network. - Support from the City of Denton, Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand through the Jordan Black Community Commitment, and a Texas Commission on the Arts grant points to a broad base of institutional and corporate backing. - DBFF’s emphasis on film, music, spoken word, art and workshops shows the festival is positioning itself as a cultural gathering, not just a film showcase.

What’s next: - DBFF will roll out more Road to DBFF activities in the months ahead. - Filmmakers and screenwriters can submit work now ahead of the October and November deadlines. - The 2027 festival will culminate in-person in Denton and online through early February.

The bottom line: - DBFF is using its 2027 “Together We Make” theme to frame the festival as a statewide, multi-platform community event with national reach.