Recently, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) and McDonald’s joined forces for the “My Community” video competition. The competition provided up and coming filmmakers the opportunity to create a 90-second film showcasing and celebrating the diverse communities they represent.
Three finalists (Tyshun Wardlaw, Travis Dent and Marshelle Montgomery) were chosen to attend the 20th Annual American Black Film Festival in Miami. They were mentored and given advice from renowned director of The Best Man and Barbershop: The Next Cut fame Malcolm D. Lee.
After careful consideration and evaluation of the short films, Tyshun Wardlaw from Milwaukee was chosen as the winner. Her short film, “Be the Seed,” highlights the relationship of a Black father and son and how important it is to be nurtured in order to grow properly.
We spoke with Tyshun and asked her how it felt to win the competition. “First and foremost, I would again like to thank McDonald’s and the American Black Film Festival for giving aspiring filmmakers the opportunity to submit our videos and showcase our communities. I am still basking in the overall experience of being selected as a finalist and then attending the 20th annual ABFF. I had the pleasure of meeting two other amazing finalist and the ABFF experience allowed us to all be in the winning circle. Winning the competition, added an additional level of awesome to the overall experience. I admit it was challenging creating the best concept to highlight within 90 seconds, but nevertheless the experience from start to finish was well worth it. I’m truly excited about winning and continuing to grow and develop as a filmmaker.” said Wardlaw.
