“The After” Secures Best Short Film Accolade at 2024 AAFCA Awards, Earns Spot at 96th Academy Awards

In a triumph at the 2024 African American Film Critics Award (AAFCA), Misan Harriman’s “The After” clinched victory in the Best Short Film category. Winners, including the top ten films of the year, were unveiled on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024.

With AAFCA’s 100+ members casting their votes, the selection of the recipients was based on outstanding achievement in cinema during the designated period.

The acclaimed winners are slated to be honored at the 15th annual AAFCA event on Feb. 21, 2024, hosted at the Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills.

Penned by Harriman and John Julius Schwabach, “The After” weaves a compelling story around a ride-share driver, portrayed by David Oyelowo, who discovers solace through an unforeseen encounter with a passenger. Stellar performances by Jessica Plummer, Sule Rimi, Ravi Singh, and Amelie Dokubo enhance the film’s impact.

In a press statement, Gil Robertson, the president, and co-founder of AAFCA noted the increased acceptance of a diverse range of African stories over the past year. Announced on Martin Luther King Day, Robertson emphasized the tradition’s significance in recognizing outstanding achievements in Black storytelling. He stated, “This year’s winners have inspired, challenged, and moved us, and we are delighted to celebrate them and their cultural impact.”

“The After” has also earned a place in the Live Action Short Film category for the upcoming 96th Academy Awards. Since its debut on Oct. 25, 2023, the film continues to captivate audiences as it streams on Netflix.