Participant Withdraws Kahlil Joseph's 'BLKNWS' from Sundance, Berlin Screening Uncertain

The film 'BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions', directed by Kahlil Joseph, has been withdrawn from both the Sundance and Berlin Film Festivals by its financier, Participant, due to allegations that Joseph submitted a secret second cut of the film without their consent. Participant claims this unauthorized version fundamentally alters the film's artistic direction, violating their agreement and jeopardizing its festival debut. Sundance expressed disappointment over the withdrawal, as they were eager to showcase the film, which follows a West African curator's profound journey. The Berlin Film Festival is currently awaiting consultations with both Joseph and Participant before deciding on the film's screening status. This legal dispute highlights ongoing tensions in the film industry regarding creative control versus financial investment. The film's logline describes a journey that challenges perceptions of consciousness and time, adding to the film's significance in contemporary cinema discussions.