John M. Forbes, Exe. Dir. BHERC, Billie J. Green, Dir. Diversity Youth

(Hollywood, CA) - The Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC) opens its 23rd Annual African American Film Marketplace (AAFM) and S.E. Manly Short Film Showcase opens with a Gala Celebration “A Great Day in Black Hollywood,” Friday, January 13, at the Harmony Gold Preview House, 7655 W. Sunset Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90046.   This popular event honors outstanding professionals in film and will premiere over 66 short films during the 2017 S.E. Manly Film Showcase.The 2017 class of honorees are: Preston L. Holmes, Producer/Director, The Ivan Dixon Award of Achievement; Lillian Benson, Film Editor, Lifetime Achievement Award; Darryl McCane, Filmmaker and Youth Film Instructor, the President’s Award and Vanessa Williams, veteran actress, Community Service Award. BHERC is pleased to award Lillian Benson with the BHERC Lifetime Achievement Award for her groundbreaking film work, longevity and continued contributions to the film industry.

 Films With A Purpose – Saturday, January 14, 2017 at 8:00 pm at Harmony Gold Theatre, 7655 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90046.  FWAP will Premiere two of its independent films CHILD SUPPORT by Alcee Walker and Sir Terrell Wormley’s WILD ROOTS and will also have a special screening of its film Satie Gossett’s FORGIVENESS.  Actor, William Allen Young will host this special screening starting at 8:00 p.m. with a Reception and Q&A with the cast and crew.  Tickets are $25.