The BFF DV Lab enables socially concerned filmmakers of color to present their stories, ideas, and images on their own terms without seeking the permission, approval, or sanction of media gatekeepers.
Launched with a grant from the Ford Foundation in 1999 and extended by a grant from the Nathan Cummings Foundation in 2002, the BFF DV Lab provided digital video equipment and micro budget commissions to filmmakers of color to produce digital films developed in the Lab that are 1) entertainment-driven, 2) socially-concerned, 3) linked to human rights and racial justice activist organizations and movements, and 4) included an interactive, online component that allowed visitors to track, question, and comment on each step in its filmmaking process and when motivated, make financial contribution toward its completion.
The diverse ethnic heritages of the participating filmmakers included: African American, Colombian, Curacao, Dominican, Indian, Mexican, Pakistani, and Puerto Rican media artist. The films employed a variety of genres including fiction, non-fiction, comedy, dance, reality, flash animation, and most recently, online interactive narratives.
BFF DV Lab films made be purchased online and are recommended for organizations and institutions utilizing educational media to enhance programs focusing on Human Rights Issues, African American Studies, Latino Studies, Cinema, Music, Dance, Civil Rights and Women's Studies Programs. These films are ideal for both Black History and Latino Awareness month.
BFF
DV Lab Filmmakers are available as speakers.
Submit
a request at the Speakers' Bureau.
Warrington Hudlin is the Executive Producer of the BFF DV Lab
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