Critically acclaimed Black films of 2024 were recognized during the 2025 African-American Film Critics Association Awards on Wednesday, February 19.

Held at the Beverly Wilshire in Hollywood, Black stars were out during the 16th Annual AFFCA Awards, including Colman Domingo, who took home Best Actor for his leading role in “Sing Sing” and RaMell Ross, who won Best Director for “Nickel Boys,” in addition to the historic drama winning Best Picture. Amber Ruffin hosted the ceremony with the comedian throwing jabs at Elon Musk and DEI rollbacks at companies nationwide, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

But, as the night went on, more actors, actresses, and standout films were spotlighted, including Marianne Jean-Baptiste who won Best Actress; Clarence Maclin, who won Best Supporting Actor; Best Supporting Actress recipient Danielle Deadwyler; the Best Ensemble-awarded “The Piano Lesson” and more.

“This has been a defining year for cinema, with an impressive array of stories that capture the complexity, resilience, and beauty of the human experience,” stated AAFCA president and cofounder Gil Robertson. “We are proud to honor this year’s filmmakers and talent, whose work continues to expand the scope of humanity on screen. These films do more than entertain — they amplify voices and perspectives that deserve to be heard, and we look forward to celebrating their lasting impact.”

Read the full list of winners here.