This documentary captures the sounds and images of a nearly forgotten era in film history when African American filmmakers and studios created “race movies” exclusively for black audiences. The best of these films attempted to counter the demeaning stereotypes of black Americans prevalent in the popular culture of the day. About 500 films were produced, yet only about 100 still exist. Filmmaking pioneers like Oscar Micheaux, the Noble brothers, and Spencer Williams, Jr. left a lasting influence on black filmmakers, and inspired generations of audiences who finally saw their own lives reflected on the silver screen.
Production
Surviving fragments feel like found footage from another dimension.
Acting
Ruby Dee's presence alone validates the entire project.
Director
Brad Osborne
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The 'race movie' circuit ran parallel to segregated theaters, creating an entirely separate economy of Black-owned production and distribution.
Spencer Williams Jr. later played Andy on 'Amos 'n' Andy' — a complicated legacy of an artist who worked both inside and outside Hollywood's systems.
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