Overview

• Participant Media, the financier and copyright holder of 'BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions,' accused director Kahlil Joseph of submitting an unauthorized cut of the film to Sundance and Berlin festivals.
• The film was removed from Sundance just days before its scheduled premiere, and Berlin screenings are now uncertain pending discussions with the involved parties.
• Participant claims Joseph made changes to the film after delivering what was believed to be the final cut in November 2024, breaching their agreement.
• The dispute follows years of delays, with Participant alleging that Joseph's actions contributed to co-financier A24 withdrawing from the project in 2023.
• Sundance organizers expressed disappointment, describing the film as a 'radiant and immersive cinematic experience' they had hoped to showcase.