This blog is a shortened extract of my essay, featured in the Bristol Ideas book “Opening Up the Magic Box: Friese-Greene and Reflections on Film,” exploring the profound impact of cinema.
‘Film has been a constant companion throughout my life, a powerful force that has shaped my understanding of the world, my identity, and my activism. From the Saturday matinees of my youth to the thought-provoking films I watch today, the silver screen has provided me with a unique lens to explore the complexities of race, identity, and social justice.
Growing up, I felt isolated, grappling with the realities of racism portrayed on screen. From the insidious stereotypes of D.W. Griffith’s Birth of a Nation to the raw anger of films like Babylon, Do the Right Thing, and La Haine, these cinematic experiences validated my own experiences and connected me to a global struggle. They showed me I wasn’t alone.
The power of film lies not just in its ability to reflect reality, but also in its capacity to challenge it. The works of Spike Lee, Ava DuVernay, and Steve McQueen have not only told compelling stories but have also provided a crucial counter-narrative to the dominant, often damaging, portrayals of Black men and women.
My cinematic journey has been one of discovery and enlightenment. I’ve learned about history through biopics like Cry Freedom and Selma, and gained insights into the human condition through documentaries such as 4 Little Girls and The 13th. I’ve witnessed the power of Black artistry in films like The Color Purple and Black Panther and celebrated the groundbreaking work of Black British filmmakers in Pressure, Handsworth Songs, and Rocks.
The Blaxploitation era, with its vibrant soundtracks and iconic characters like John Shaft and Foxy Brown, introduced a new level of style and swagger to Black culture, influencing generations of artists and activists. Films such as Nothing But a Man, Boyz in the Hood, and Moonlight explored the complexities of Black masculinity with nuance and sensitivity.
The biopic has been a powerful tool for reclaiming Black history, with films such as Hidden Figures, 12 Years a Slave, and Selma bringing crucial stories to mainstream audiences. Documentaries including When the Levees Broke and I Am Not Your Negro have provided invaluable insights into the realities of systemic racism and social injustice.
The impact of Black Panther, Soul, and 40-Year-Old Version shows the evolution of Black representation in cinema, expanding beyond trauma and tragedy to embrace joy, humour, and diverse narratives.
The journey has not been without its challenges. The #OscarsSoWhite controversy highlighted the ongoing struggle for representation, but the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement and the critical acclaim of Clemency, Just Mercy, and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom demonstrate a shift toward more inclusive and impactful storytelling.
From Sidney Poitier’s dignified portrayals to Viola Davis’s legendary performances, the power of Black actors to embody complex and compelling characters has been transformative. The rise of Black British filmmakers, from Horace Ove to Steve McQueen, has provided a vital platform for authentic and nuanced stories.
The silver screen remains a powerful tool for education, inspiration, and social change. It has taught me about my history, challenged my perspectives, and connected me to a global community. As we move forward, I am hopeful that the stories we tell will continue to reflect the richness and diversity of the human experience, in all its living colour.’
May 2021