African American Women in Cinema Celebrates 25 Years of Empowering Women Filmmakers: Honoring Skye Marshall and Premiering To Live and Die and Live

5/12/2025

Vimeo

THE REBEL GIRLS Trailer

In the summer of 1963, approximately 200 children, some as young as 10-years-old, were arrested for protesting at the segregated Martin Theater in Americus, GA. Thirty girls "disappeared." Never charged with a crime, they sat in a Civil War-era stockade for nearly sixty days without their families knowing their whereabouts. Refusing to accept injustice, the courageous activists created a game -- a mental and emotional escape into a world of fantasy and magical thinking. THE REBEL GIRLS is inspired by their true story.

New York, NY – A bold spotlight will shine on the legacy, brilliance, and resilience of Black women in film as the African American Women in Cinema (AAWIC) organization marks a powerful milestone: its 25th Annual AAWIC Film Festival, set for May 15–17, 2025, at LaGuardia Community College. For a quarter-century, AAWIC has elevated the voices of African American women in film, championing authentic storytelling and equitable representation both behind and in front of the camera.

This year’s celebration promises to be one of the most impactful yet, featuring a red-carpet screening of the critically acclaimed film To Live and Die and Live, starring the dynamic and talented Skye Marshall, currently captivating audiences on CBS’s reboot of Matlock. In recognition of her trailblazing contributions to entertainment and her inspirational journey, Marshall will be honored with the prestigious AAWIC Trailblazer Award on opening night.

Set in Detroit, To Live and Die and Live follows the gripping journey of Muhammad, a successful Hollywood director, who returns to his hometown for his stepfather’s funeral. As he wrestles with addiction, grief, and fractured relationships, the film unearths emotional truths about survival, identity, and the unbreakable human spirit. Marshall’s performance is expected to leave a lasting impression—one that amplifies the depth and nuance of Black storytelling.

In keeping with AAWIC’s mission to educate and uplift, the festival will also feature an exciting lineup of industry-focused workshops and panels, including a Screenwriters Workshop, a Film and Television Producing Workshop, and influential keynote discussions on vital topics such as “The Politics of Black Women in Film” and “Financing for Independent Films.” These curated sessions offer a wealth of knowledge for both emerging creatives and established professionals striving to make their mark.

Recognizing the evolving nature of film consumption, the 25th AAWIC Film Festival will be a hybrid event, offering both in-person experiences and virtual screenings. This inclusive format ensures global access to groundbreaking work from women filmmakers whose diverse perspectives are transforming cinema.

The historic event is proudly supported by sponsors including iOne Digital, NBCUniversal, and A&E Network, reaffirming a shared commitment to diversity, innovation, and the celebration of cultural excellence.

To be part of this landmark celebration of Black women in cinema, visit www.aawic.org for tickets, event details, and festival updates.

About African American Women in Cinema (AAWIC):
Founded in 1997, AAWIC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting, showcasing, and empowering women of color in the film industry. Through its annual festival, mentorship initiatives, and collaborative partnerships, AAWIC continues to be a vital force in shaping the future of diverse storytelling.