The Black Tax Officially Selected for Manchester Lift-Off Film Festival and Qualifies for The Africa Movie Academy Awards. UK / Africa — 2026
BillyTheGreat’s The Black Tax has been officially selected for the 2026 Manchester Lift-Off Film Festival and has qualified for submissions to the 2026 Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA).
The film’s selection at the Manchester Lift-Off Film Festival places it among a curated group of international independent films recognized for their bold storytelling, artistic merit, and cultural relevance. Lift-Off Global Network is widely known for spotlighting emerging voices and providing a global platform for innovative filmmakers.
“This selection is an incredible honour,” said BillyTheGreat. “Manchester Lift-Off has built a reputation for discovering and elevating powerful independent cinema. To have our work recognized on that stage is both humbling and affirming.”
In addition to its UK festival recognition, the film has qualified for submission consideration at the Africa Movie Academy Awards 2026 — one of the most prestigious awards bodies celebrating excellence in African cinema and storytelling worldwide.
Often referred to as “Africa’s Oscars and BAFTA,” AMAA recognizes outstanding achievements in filmmaking. Qualification for submission marks an important step in positioning the film within the broader landscape of African cinematic excellence.
“This milestone represents more than festival recognition,” BillyTheGreat added. “It reflects the power of culturally rooted storytelling and the growing global appetite for authentic African narratives.”
The film explores themes of identity, resilience, and societal pressure, delivered through a distinctive visual and emotional lens. Since its completion, it has continued to gain momentum within the festival circuit, signaling strong potential for further international impact.
As the 2026 festival and awards season unfolds, BillyTheGreat and his team look forward to sharing the film with wider audiences and industry stakeholders.
