Spotlight on Excellence: PAFF Films Shine on the Road to the Oscars
PAFF has always been a platform for elevating Black voices and amplifying the creative excellence of filmmakers from across the globe, and this year is no exception. Among the standout selections for the 2025 festival are two films: Soundtrack to a Coup D’État, nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 97th Academy Awards, and Nawi, Kenya’s official submission for Best International Feature Film. These films, along with an extraordinary lineup of narratives, documentaries, and shorts, embody the creativity, depth, and powerful storytelling that PAFF is known for showcasing.
Adding to this year’s excitement is the recognition of The Last Ranger, a South African film directed by Cindy Lee, which earned an Oscar nomination for Best Live Action Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards. The Last Ranger previously won Best Short Narrative Film at the 2024 Pan African Film and Arts Festival, an accolade that qualified it for Academy consideration. “We are thrilled that The Last Ranger has achieved such a remarkable milestone,” said PAFF Executive Director Oduduwa Olatunji. “This incredible achievement highlights how PAFF serves as a launchpad for groundbreaking Black storytelling and talent, helping exceptional films gain the recognition they deserve on the global stage.”
As an Oscars-qualifying festival, PAFF holds a significant role in providing filmmakers with the opportunity to compete for Academy Awards in the categories of Best Short Narrative Film, Best Short Documentary, and Best Animated Short. This distinction underscores PAFF’s ongoing commitment to fostering a space where bold, innovative, and transformative stories can thrive.
In a joint statement, the PAFF Programming team shared, “The selection process for PAFF is always an inspiring yet challenging journey, as we sift through hundreds of extraordinary submissions from across the globe. The films chosen for this year’s festival represent the bold creativity, diverse perspectives, and profound storytelling that define the African diaspora. They challenge us to think deeply, dream beyond limitations, and celebrate the richness of our shared humanity.”
As the countdown to the 97th Academy Awards continues, PAFF remains at the forefront of celebrating and supporting the artists and stories that shape the future of Black cinema. This year’s lineup is not only a testament to the power of storytelling but also a reminder of the vital role PAFF plays in uplifting and honoring voices from the African diaspora.
Check out our 2025 film guide, and join us in celebrating the films, filmmakers, and stories that are redefining excellence in cinema.
