The Black, Bold & Brilliant (BBB) series focuses on authentic and nuanced representation through film critique and discussions led by Black Utahns.
BBB events are programmed for the benefit of Black, Afro-Latino, Latino, Indigenous, LGBTQ, and allied communities in Utah; however, all are welcome to thoughtfully participate.
This spring, Black, Bold & Brilliant is showcasing stories of holding those in authority accountable. The stakes have never been higher in these two legal dramas centering Black voices standing in their truth.
Your first stop is a Black History Month selection based on an award-winning book that investigates the political intrigue wrapped around an anti-gang activist who’s threatening to tear apart Denver, Colorado. Eight years in the making, this film tells the story of communities of color at the crossroads of gentrification, law enforcement, and city hall.
After that, you’ll step into the shoes of a man facing off against an international agri-chemical giant. Follow along as he makes history and pulls back the curtain on a deadly industrial coverup.
RSVP now to discover more!
“Black, Bold & Brilliant is a safe space that allows us to explore, celebrate, and speak to our culture. This project allows us to lift up our joy and celebrate our stories through film.“
– community member
Meet the BBB Programming Team
Russell Roots, Program Manager
Russell is the Utah Film Center’s Director of Film Exhibition. They also previously served as Board Secretary for Amplify Utah, a non-profit journalistic incubator amplifying underrepresented voices in Utah. Russell has experience in music journalism and has also been a radio DJ. Their focus is on the intersections of marginalized groups in cinema, media literacy, and the rise of white nationalism in the United States.
Aja Washington, Host and Lead Programmer
Aja Washington is a Black feminist social worker who grew up in Southern California. She has been a community co-host on KRCL’s RadioACTive and works on various activism projects in Salt Lake City. Aja holds a degree in Television, Film, and Media Studies focused on using media as a tool to liberate, explore, and critique our society.
Risshan Leak, Co-Host and Associate Programmer
Risshan is a Husband, Father, Friend, and Activist. What started as an opportunity to buck the system, turned into a healthy obsession with helping those around him, whether it was a kind word, a helping hand, or as an ally in the face of injustice. Risshan’s passion has taken him to all parts of the world, and most recently, it allowed him to become a part of KRCL’s RadioACTive team. If anyone wants to get in some “good trouble”, you have a friend in him.
Upcoming Events
Black, Bold & Brilliant, Tumbleweeds
Black, Bold & Brilliant Kids Short Film Program
Black, Bold & Brilliant team is proud to present a collection of family-friendly short films at Tumbleweeds Film Festival for Kids this year! Each short takes us on a fantastic journey, exploring Black and POC communities from the perspectives of their youngest members.
April 20, 2024 at 12:15 pm
In Person | Viridian Event Center
Black, Bold & Brilliant
Wild & Scenic Film Festival 2024
Outdoor Auntie and Utah Film Center’s Black Bold & Brilliant program are partnering with Tracy Aviary to present the Wild & Scenic Film Festival. Join us to support Black, Indigenous, People of Color, Disabled, and LGBTQ+ communities engaging with outdoor sports, public lands, and environmental activism with outdoor films and local vendors.
Alcohol for sale, 21+ only, must have ID on hand.
June 28, 2024 at 7:30 pm
In Person | Tracy Aviary
Black, Bold & Brilliant screenings are presented with support by:
BBB, as part of our free film programming, is supported by the Lawrence T. and Janet T. Dee Foundation.
BBB screenings are also funding in part by:
