As the world reels from the tragic loss of Chadwick Boseman, and remembers the impact he had not just on the film industry but the lives of millions, notably young black people, The I Will Tell International Film Festival, showcasing the work of black film-makers and film-makers from other often under-represented backgrounds, launches online today – for the first time in its 14 year history. The event will highlight those creative talents who make films about untold stories and those which challenge people’s perspectives and call for change.

Festival Director Jenny Lee said: “Sometimes the only way to deal with the grief that comes from such a monumetal loss is to channel it into positive energy, to keep his dream alive, to provide more opportunities to those who are young, gifted and black and we are grateful for the opportunity to be doing that.”

This year’s festival will feature documentaries, dramas, short films and animations, all showcasing the work of and from many established and upcoming talents; with actors including Redcon-1’s Oris Erhuero, The Hard Stop’s Dionne Walker and Luther’s Bart Gavigan on the Jury. The event will also feature a Directors and Actors Roundtable on Representation and Equity led by Oris Erhuero and and a Black Animators Roundtable with Mr Bean‘s Max Oginni and black female animator Maria Birmingham.

As Covid-19 has had and continues to have a considerable financial impact on many, a special Pay What You Can initiative has been introduced, where those who can afford to pay more than the cost of the Festival Pass of £75 are able to do so to help others and those who cannot afford the full price pay what they can. The festival runs from today, August 30 to September 9 and will screen more than 80 films, and host 17 live events including Q&A’s. More information can be found by visiting the I Will Tell website.