Danielle Brooks and J. Alphonse Nicholson won the Best Narrative Award at the 12th annual Bentonville Film Festival Saturday night for their drama If I Go Will They Miss Me.
The festival, which concluded in Northwest Arkansas under Geena Davis's leadership, celebrated independent filmmaking across multiple categories. Director Walter Thompson-Hernández's film is a character study that explores themes of identity, family, and belonging.
Brooks and Nicholson share screen time with rising talent Bodhi Dell in the drama. The ensemble cast's vulnerability resonated with the festival's judges.
Bentonville has become a prestigious platform for independent film. Beyond Brooks and Nicholson's win, Jane Elliott Against the World also took home a top honor.
Streaming platforms and major studios increasingly scout Bentonville for fresh talent and original stories. For Brooks—best known for her work in prestige television—this festival win adds to her growing résumé.
Industry observers expect If I Go Will They Miss Me to compete for further accolades during awards season.
