Jonathan Majors’ ‘Magazine Dreams’ Opens 33rd Pan African Film & Arts Festival

The 33rd Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) kicked off in electrifying fashion with the highly anticipated screening of Magazine Dreams, starring Jonathan Majors. The festival’s opening night in Culver City at The Culver Theater set the tone for an unforgettable celebration of Black storytelling, cinema, and artistry.

A Night to Remember

Opening night was a star-studded affair, with Jonathan Majors and Meagan Good making striking appearances on the red carpet, turning heads with their undeniable presence. They were joined by a powerhouse lineup of industry icons and rising stars, including Mario Van Peebles, John Salley, Kiki Haynes, Novi Brown, Kyla Pratt, Joe Torry, and more, all coming together to celebrate the power of Black storytelling. The event was further elevated by the presence of Culver City Mayor Dan O’Brien and Councilmembers Yasmine-Imani McMorrin and Freddy Puza, along with LA County Supervisor Holly Mitchell and Los Angeles Councilmember Curren Price, who greeted the audience before the screening. Their attendance underscored the festival’s deep cultural and civic impact.

The energy in the room was palpable as these esteemed leaders joined filmmakers, actors, and creatives, setting the stage for an unforgettable festival filled with cinematic excellence and community pride.

A Captivating Film

The powerful drama, directed by Elijah Bynum, captivated audiences with its raw, unflinching portrayal of an aspiring bodybuilder grappling with ambition, isolation, and the weight of his own dreams. Jonathan Majors delivered a tour-de-force performance, drawing the audience into an intense and emotional journey that resonated deeply with PAFF’s commitment to bold, thought-provoking storytelling.

“Opening PAFF 2025 with Magazine Dreams was a statement,” said PAFF Executive Director Oduduwa Olatunji. “This film embodies the depth, complexity, and power of Black storytelling that PAFF was built to celebrate. The energy in the room was electric, and it was a perfect start to what promises to be an incredible festival.”

Looking Ahead

With its grand opening night behind it, PAFF is set to showcase a dynamic lineup of feature films, documentaries, shorts, panels, and special events, highlighting voices from across the African diaspora. The festival runs through February 17, with screenings and events taking place throughout Los Angeles and Culver City.

The 2025 Pan African Film Festival runs from February 4-17 in Los Angeles, CA. For tickets, schedules, and more information, visit paff.org.

Join us as we celebrate the voices that refuse to be silenced and the art that brings us together.