black is...
a documentary series
examining Blackness in American film

THIS PROJECT IS ON HOLD.
I WILL UPDATE THIS PAGE ONCE IT IS DONE.

Scroll down to veiw a video sample from the documentary.

The black is... documentary series provides an in-depth analytical exploration of how Blacks have been portrayed in mainstream American films throughout its first one hundred years (from 1915 to 2010).  It is envisioned that this video series will consist of three or four episodes that present a historical context for the limited range of Black characters in mainstream films.  Utilizing the principles of media literacy and critical analysis, the documentary series aspires to expand viewers' understanding and awareness of media messaging that they may be informed viewers of film and, hopefully, demonstrate responsible discretion in what films (and other media) they support and watch.

Episode One: The Roots of American Film Language is in the last stage of production.  Approximately 90 minutes, this episode examines how the roots of most Black portrayal in American films can be tied to three works of art: 1) the novella Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad; 2) the novel Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher-Stowe; and, 3) the film The Birth of a Nation by D. W. Griffith.  Exploring these three pieces, this episode exposes the limited constructs of how Blacks are portrayed in film, constructs that remain very much in place even today.  A sample from this episode is below.

Episode One will soon be ready for community / education screenings and discussions.  To set up a screening (and possible appearance by the film director), email me at: < love@blueantelopeproductions.com >.This episode will also be available for purchase as a DVD, so check back later for details.

I am also in the process of seeking financial support (i.e. grants, donations) to continue work on the remaining episodes.  If you can provide any assistance with this, please email me at: < love@blueantelopeproductions.com >.

THE FIRST FEW SECONDS OF THE SAMPLE START OFF AS A BLACK SCREEN
FOR THOSE WITH SLOWER CONNECTIONS, THE SAMPLE MAY TAKE A FEW MOMENTS TO LOAD.

YOU MAY WANT TO VIEW THE SLOWER INTERNET SPEED VERSION BELOW.

A Security Banner may appear on the top of your screen.  Click on the banner
and select "Allow Blocked Content" or "Run Add-ons" to view the video sample.

SLOWER INTERNET SPEED VERSION

To view samples from other video projects I have done, visit the motion pictures page.

For more information, questions, or comments email me at: < love@blueantelopeproductions.com >