Compton's Hub City International Film Festival Returns for Its 3rd Annual Celebration September 25–27, 2026
COMPTON, Calif. – The 3rd Annual Compton's Hub City International Film Festival (CHCIFF) returns September 25–27, 2026, welcoming award-winning filmmakers, actors, producers, musicians, educators, technology innovators, students, and community leaders for three unforgettable days celebrating film, education, music, innovation, arts, and culture. The festival will welcome filmmakers, students, and industry professionals from across the United States and around the world, showcasing independent cinema while celebrating the creative spirit and cultural legacy of Compton.
8/3/20262 min read
The 2026 Festival proudly welcomes acclaimed writer, director, producer, and Compton native Camille Tucker as this year's Festival Ambassador, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry and her commitment to inspiring the next generation of storytellers.
Opening Night on Friday, September 25, features a special 50th Anniversary Encore Screening of the classic motion picture Car Wash, followed by an exclusive Q&A with legendary director Michael Schultz and select cast members before guests celebrate at a festive 70's Theme Party.
Festival audiences will experience several highly anticipated premieres, including the World Premiere of Howard Scott: Straight Into Compton, directed by Howard Scott Jr., celebrating Compton's rich history, resilience, and worldwide influence on music, entertainment, sports, and the arts. Also featured is Put the Guns Down: A World Epidemic, directed by Terry C. Carney Sr., a compelling documentary that encourages dialogue and community-driven solutions to combat gun violence. The festival will also present the premiere of the melo-drama series CHOPS, directed by Hakim A. Khalfani, offering an non-linear story that gives us a window into the making of an independent film through the lens of Detroit's urban culture while addressing the importance of mental health awareness.
Saturday's signature program, Ladies Touch: Women in Entertainment, will showcase youth films from Compton Unified School District, Compton College, and schools from across the country. Educational programming includes The Filmmaker's Revenue Blueprint presented by Landi Maduro; an AI Filmmaking: The Future of Storytelling panel featuring acclaimed directors Dwayne Alexander Smith and Ben Ramsey, along with Compton native Ayanna
Henderson; an Actors Workshop led by Monica R. Cooper; and a special conversation with Desreta Jackson, best known for portraying Young Celie in The Color Purple, as she shares her inspiring journey from child actress to accomplished producer.
The festival also offers something for the entire family with food vendors, arts and crafts, educational exhibits, health and wellness resources, community organizations, and family-friendly activities. Music lovers will enjoy the Compton Deltas' Annual Jazz Event featuring acclaimed R&B recording artist Will Downing.
Compton's Hub City International Film Festival continues its mission of celebrating diverse voices, supporting independent filmmakers, educating future generations, strengthening local businesses, and showcasing the creativity, culture, and excellence of the City of Compton.
ML Davis, Founder and Executive Director of CHCIFF, said, "The Compton culture will be personified internationally at this year's festival. Through film, music, education, and community, we are showcasing the creativity, resilience, and excellence of Compton while welcoming filmmakers and audiences from around the world to experience our city's story."
The festival is proudly presented with the support of its fiscal sponsor, Ladies Touch, Inc., whose commitment to arts, education, and community empowerment helps make this celebration possible.
Vendor, volunteer, sponsorship, and ticket opportunities are now available.
For more information, visit www.comptonsfilmfestival.com or call (310) 627-7396.
Media Contact
ML Davis
Founder & Executive Director
Compton's Hub City International Film Festival
Phone: (310) 627-7396
Website: www.comptonsfilmfestival.com
Celebrating independent films in Compton, California.
Contact us
Contact
comptonshubcityiff@gmail.com
© 2026 Compton's Hub City International Film Festival. All Rights Reserved.