NORTH BEACH, Md. – The North Beach American Film Festival (NBAFF) proudly announces its 9th annual edition, returning to North Beach, Maryland, offering audiences an opportunity to discover stories that span generations, cultures, genres and imagination.
Since its founding, NBAFF has presented groundbreaking films. The 2025 festival lineup continues this tradition with a compelling mix of documentaries, narratives and visionary storytelling.
A Celebration of Independent Film
“The North Beach American Film Festival was always meant to provide a platform for stories that challenge, inspire and connect us,” said Festival Director Anthony M. Greene. “Our ninth year reflects the current climate of our country, just as the years before strived to. The films presented are meant to take on the many facets of our country, our people and our differing beliefs in hopes of offering common ground through art to have meaningful conversation and move forward positively.”
Featured Films
State Champions
A filmmaker returns to her hometown to explore the complex identity of a mostly White town and its celebrated high school. In this deeply personal documentary, she unpacks how community, culture and memory shaped her life—and challenges audiences to reflect on the intersections of belonging and identity.
Grandma’s Hands
From Fog Moving Pictures and produced by the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area, Grandma’s Hands celebrates Maryland’s cultural heritage through the universal language of food. The documentary takes viewers into the kitchens of six families as they share recipes passed down for generations, weaving together stories of agricultural traditions, culinary history and the unbreakable bond of family.
America in the Dark: The J6 Pardons and Big Tech Censorship
A provocative documentary that examines the networks of influence and power often hidden from public view. This film explores how political pardons, media control and technology platforms shape national narratives—challenging viewers to question what is seen, what is hidden and who decides.
Sugar Beach
A raw and emotional drama about Rosalyn, a gifted high school senior navigating grief after losing her brother in a tragic surfing accident. As she spirals into addiction and enters a fragile relationship with Isaac and Emma, the film portrays her struggle for identity, healing and the difficult journey toward self-love.
Coffee with Golconda
A mind-bending science fiction tale that bridges centuries and dimensions. When a post office clerk in Durham, England is tasked with delivering a package thirty years into the past, he embarks on a journey spanning two millennia. From robot samurai to time-traveling scientists, Coffee with Golconda is both an exhilarating adventure and a poignant meditation on humanity.
Festival Information
- Event: 9th Annual North Beach American Film Festival
- Location: North Beach, Maryland
- Date & Time: September 20, 2025, 10am to 8pm
- Tickets: Free Admission (Films are not suitable for children)
- Schedule: Available at filmvillage.org
About the North Beach American Film Festival
The North Beach American Film Festival (NBAFF) is dedicated to showcasing independent voices and promoting the art of cinema in Southern Maryland. Through bold storytelling and community engagement, NBAFF brings together filmmakers, audiences, and artists to celebrate creativity and spark dialogue.