The Newark Black Film Festival (NBFF), produced since 1974 by The Newark Museum, returns to Asbury Park this year beginning with the showing of "The Promised Land" episode of the highly acclaimed civil rights movement documentary series "Eyes on the Prize" at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 27, at the Asbury Park High School Auditorium, 1003 Sunset Ave.

Of local interest is "The Ditchdigger's Daughters," which tells the story of Donald Thornton, a Long Branch native, and his six daughters who would beat the odds of growing up black and female in the 1950s and '60s. This film is a testament to a father's love and the persistence, as well as strength, of his daughters who overcame poverty and racism to become accomplished professionals. Showing on July 25 at 7 p.m., the event includes a reception and book signing by one of Thornton's daughters, Dr. Yvonne Thornton, author of the book on which the movie is based.

Other films in the festival include: "Back to Africa," showing July 8 at 7 p.m.; "Blackout," showing July 11 at 7 p.m.; "Hallelujah!" one of the first allblack films produced by a major studio, showing July 18 at 7 p.m.; and a special night celebrating the Paul Robeson Award-winning films, with discussions with filmmakers and Paul Robeson Jr.

All films are shown at the Asbury Park High School Auditorium and include post-film discussions with special panelists including filmmakers, historians and authors.

The festival also includes a children's series at 2 p.m. each Friday. For a full schedule, visit the Monmouth County Arts Council's Web site, www.monmoutharts.org.