Allstate Extends Deadline for Beyond February "Be Reel" Film Contest at American Black Film Festival.

Aspiring Filmmakers Vie for Invitation to Attend American Black Film Festival in LA and a $5,000 Grand Prize

NORTHBROOK, Ill. -- Allstate Insurance Company, sponsor of the 11th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) in Los Angeles, Oct. 25-29, has extended the submission deadline for its 2007 "Be Reel" Contest to Monday, Sept. 24. In an effort to extend support and broader exposure to the black film community, Allstate is providing a forum for gifted filmmakers to showcase their talents. Three "Be Reel" Contest finalists will be invited by Allstate to attend ABFF in LA, where the winner will receive an award and a $5,000 grand prize.

Participants are being asked to create community service based, 15- to 90-second video shorts. Themes include: "Why is it important to be involved in the African-American community year-round" and "What are you doing or would like to do to strengthen the growth and success of your community." All entries must be submitted on DVD and received by Sept. 24. For complete details on rules and requirements, please visit: www.ABFF.com.

"This is an exciting opportunity for talented screenwriters and directors to showcase their work and share their vision for making their community a better place," says Steven White, senior marketing manager for Allstate.

The "Be Reel" contest is an extension of Allstate's support and sponsorship of the ABFF. ABFF's goal, in addition to promoting the diversity of black films in cinema, is to strengthen the black film community through resource sharing, artistic guidance and education, project collaboration and career development.

"Our partnership with ABFF is a key component of our community service platform called 'Beyond February'," adds White. "'Beyond February' describes Allstate's commitment to the African American community all year long and the commitment extends to these young filmmakers and screenwriters. They epitomize the entrepreneurial spirit that makes for strong, vibrant communities."

ABOUT ABFF

The ABFF, founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, is a property of Film Life, Inc., a New York-based film marketing and distribution company. Its mission is to spearhead the global distribution of quality Black films and be the leading American brand producing Black movies, television, events and digital content. Contact Jana Taylor, Manager of Marketing & Communications at [phone] ext 406. Visit our website at www.abff.com.

ABOUT ALLSTATE

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate([R])" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,800 exclusive agencies and financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate([R]). Encompass([R]) and Deerbrook([R])Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.