Women Behind the Lens: A Defining Presence at the 2026 Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival
Oak Bluff’s in Martha’s Vineyard in the summer is historically culturally rich and enlightening, so when combined with the African American Film Festival it is truly something to experience. While enjoying Inkwell Beach this summer and celebrating the Polar Bears' 80th anniversary, in anticipation of the film festival, NYWIFT Member Penni Malloy-Harper thought about who is shaping the stories and who is behind the camera these days. The 2026 Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival certainly answered the question of who is shaping the stories behind the camera and who is building the platform that allows the stories to be seen. Penni shares the inside scoop.
READ MOREDisney’s Tiana’s Joyful Celebration: An Interview with Ms. Stella Chase-Reese and Carmen Smith at the ESSENCE Festival of Culture 2026
Penni Malloy-Harper visits Tiana’s Joyful Celebration, an immersive, bilingual museum exhibit produced by Walt Disney Imagineering. It follows the storyline of Tiana's Bayou Adventure, inviting children to use their imagination and teamwork to help Tiana and her friends prepare for a Mardi Gras season parade. The exhibit is immersive and tailored for children ages 6-10, bringing the sights, sounds, and flavors of New Orleans to life. This traveling exhibition had its kickoff at the ESSENCE Festival of Culture in July 2026.
READ MOREApple TV The Lady in the Lake Premiere Screening at the Paley Center for Media
June 10th, 2024 was a night to remember. Apple TV + hosted an exclusive screening and conversation for their new television seven-episode series, The Lady in the Lake, at the esteemed Paley Center for Media. This television series features the exceptional talent of Academy Award-winning actress Natalie Portman, who also produces the series, the gifted actress and Emmy nominee Moses Ingram, and the versatile creator, executive producer, director, and writer Alma Har’el. NYWIFT Member Penni Malloy-Harper attended an exclusive screening and Q&A and shares her insights.
READ MORE
