Film Life, Inc., celebrated the success of its 15th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF), wrapping in Miami, July 9. A new record of over 5,000 attendees was set and the festival showcased 30 films drawing a diversity of global brands and companies dedicated to supporting independent films. The 2011 sponsorship lineup proved that ABFF is a valued marketing platform reaching influential consumers and top industry executives. The festival created an incomparable on-site experience aligned with sponsors' overall mission.

Home Box Office, Inc. (HBO®), returned as the festival's Founding and Premier Sponsor. Since 1998, HBO has worked in many ways to enrich ABFF's platform through original programs. The HBO Short Film Competition awarded top prize of $20,000. Lucinda Martinez, VP/Domestic Network Distribution & Multicultural Marketing for HBO, and former HBO Executive Olivia Smashum presented the award. HBO Talk Series was also a highlight.

Returning for its fourth year as Premier Sponsor, Grey Goose hosted a series of hospitality receptions, sponsored the Closing Night Party and presented the Grey Goose "Rising Icon" Award to actress Naturi Naughton. Chauncey Hamlett, Grey Goose Brand Manager, and actress Mari Marrow presented the award.

New Premier Sponsor was Team Sizzle Worldwide, a film production company founded and owned by Baltimore Ravens Linebacker Terrell Suggs. Suggs sponsored the ABFF 15th Anniversary Party and the Grand Jury Prize for Best Screenplay. Suggs personally presented along with Actress Elise Neal.

"Through their ongoing support, we are now considered one of the leading film festivals in the world," stated ABFF Founder Jeff Friday.