Kansas City PBS is inviting filmmakers and artists to submit materials for the third-annual Reel Black Film Fest Presented by Kansas City PBS.
Taking place Saturday, Feb. 6, 2027, in Kansas City, the non-fiction film festival celebrates the vibrancy of Black Kansas City while showcasing stories of cultural icons, unsung heroes and need-to-know history. Film festival attendees will enjoy an event full of engaging activities from screenings and post-film discussions with filmmakers to shopping with local vendors and networking with community partners.
Film Submissions
Submissions must meet the following criteria to be considered eligible for the Reel Black Film Festival. Selected filmmakers will be notified by November 15, 2026. If selected, filmmakers agree to provide a high-quality screening copy by November 16, 2026.
Guidelines and rules:
- Non-fiction films with a Black community angle
- Produced or directed by a Black filmmaker with Midwest ties
- Short films 10 minutes or less and feature films 30-60 minutes in length
- Films not previously broadcast on-air in any region
Several non-cash awards will be presented at the 2027 Reel Black Film Festival, including (1) Grand Jury Award: Best Feature Film, (1) Grand Jury Award: Best Short Film, (1) Audience Choice Award: Best Feature Film, (1) Audience Choice Award: Best Short Film.
Read all rules and terms and submit your film at:https://filmfreeway.com/ReelBlackFilmFest
Artwork Submissions
For the first time, Kansas City PBS invites Black artists from across the United States to submit original artwork inspired by film, Black culture, community, creativity and cinematic storytelling. The selected design may be featured on official festival posters, apparel, promotional materials and more.
Guidelines and Rules:
- Original artwork created by Black artists that reside in the U.S.
- All artwork styles and mediums are welcome — please no A.I. generated designs
- Designs should be high resolution and scalable for print and digital use
- Multiple entries are allowed
Selected artist(s) must submit completed artwork by Sunday, Nov. 1, at 11:59 p.m. Winners will be notified by Saturday, Nov. 15, and will receive a prize pack, including a $250 honorarium.
Additional details and rules can be found on the Submissions Form.
Additional information for the 2027 Reel Black Film Fest will be announced soon at kansascitypbs.org/reelblack.
