African American Film Critics Association Honors Cinematic Excellence

Sinners leads with multiple wins at the 17th Annual AAFCA Awards ceremony

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

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The African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) recently held its 17th Annual AAFCA Awards, honoring some of the most prolific and multifaceted entertainers whose work has significantly shifted culture. The historic, record-breaking vampire film 'Sinners' led with multiple wins, including 'Best Writing' and 'Best Directing' for Ryan Coogler, 'Best Actor' Michael B. Jordan, 'Best Supporting Actress' Wunmi Mosaku, 'Emerging Face (Actor)' Miles Caton, 'Best Music' Ludwig Göransson, and 'Best Ensemble.'

Why it matters

The AAFCA Awards celebrate Black artistry and storytelling in the film industry, recognizing the power of cinema to challenge, inspire, and unite. The awards highlight the importance of diverse representation and amplifying voices that have been historically marginalized in the entertainment landscape.

The details

The ceremony was hosted by former White House Press Secretary and author Karine Jean-Pierre, who emphasized the significance of uplifting Black voices and stories during a time when the First Amendment is under attack. Honorees at the Awards luncheon also included film executives DeVon Franklin, Erick Peyton, and Jason Aidoo, as well as 'Sinners' star Delroy Lindo and Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group.

  • The 17th Annual AAFCA Awards ceremony took place recently.
  • Women's History Month commenced following the AAFCA Awards with the AAFCA Special Achievement Awards Luncheon.

The players

African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA)

An organization that celebrates and honors Black artistry and storytelling in the film industry.

Ryan Coogler

The director of the historic, record-breaking vampire film 'Sinners,' which won multiple AAFCA Awards.

Michael B. Jordan

The lead actor in 'Sinners,' who won the AAFCA Award for 'Best Actor.'

Wunmi Mosaku

The actress who won the AAFCA Award for 'Best Supporting Actress' for her role in 'Sinners.'

Gil Robertson

The president and co-founder of AAFCA, who emphasized the power of film to challenge, inspire, and unite.

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What they’re saying

“The cinematic voices recognized this year remind us of the power of film to challenge, inspire, and unite.”

— Gil Robertson, President and co-founder of AAFCA (lasentinel.net)

“With our First Amendment under attack, we have to uplift the voices that are telling our stories.”

— Karine Jean-Pierre, Former White House Press Secretary and author (lasentinel.net)

“[AAFCA] is ours, it's for us, it celebrates us. You don't always feel seen, heard, or appreciated, but when you're in rooms like this, you feel seen, heard, and appreciated.”

— Wunmi Mosaku, Actress (lasentinel.net)

“She guided us through everything and made sure we had a foundation rooted in understanding who we were, our value, our purpose, and what we contribute.”

— Aldis Hodge, Actor and producer (lasentinel.net)

What’s next

The AAFCA Special Achievement Awards Luncheon honoring industry power players will take place following the 17th Annual AAFCA Awards ceremony, kicking off Women's History Month.

The takeaway

The AAFCA Awards celebrate the power of Black storytelling and representation in film, highlighting the importance of diverse voices and perspectives in the entertainment industry. The ceremony serves as a testament to the transformative impact of cinema and the continued need to uplift marginalized communities.