Join us this month to celebrate the many amazing contributions to the entertainment industry made by Black filmmakers, writers, composers and performers. We’ve put together a few examples of what we have in our catalog along with some other great resources that we hope you will enjoy.
Here Are a Few Ways You Can Enjoy Movies by Black Filmmakers
Within Our Gates
by Oscar Micheaux
Within Our Gates was produced and directed by Oscar Micheaux in 1919. He is considered to be the first African-American director of feature films and this is the first such film still in existence. I found the plot difficult to follow, and he does not give full play to the “money” scenes at the conclusion but it is certainly of historic interest.
Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise
Distinctly referred to as “a redwood tree, with deep roots in American culture,” Dr. Maya Angelou (April 4, 1928-May 28, 2014) led a prolific life. As a singer, dancer, activist, poet and writer, she inspired generations with lyrical modern African-American thought that pushed boundaries. Best known for her autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (Random House), she gave people the freedom to think about their history in a way they never had before.
With unprecedented access, filmmakers Bob Hercules and Rita Coburn Whack trace Dr. Angelou’s incredible journey, shedding light on the untold aspects of her life through never-before-seen footage, rare archival photographs and videos and her own words.
Here are some amazing resources to help celebrate the life and work of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Take a moment to explore our curation of media dedicated to the memory of the iconic civil rights activist.
Video Footage from The Internet Archive Moving Image Collection
Martin Luther King Clip Reel
Nine short stories on Martin Luther King, Jr.
Stories include: King Holiday; MLK Wreath-Laying; Jackson/MLK; King/Civil Rights; Reagan/Kids; MLK Bust/Capitol; Andy Young Reflects; MLK Celebration/Atlanta; MLK Celebration/Washington, D.C.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Speech
A clip of the last speech that MLK ever gave.
The March on Washington
Scenes from Civil Rights March in Washington, D.C., August 1963. Speakers including Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Women at podium singing We Shall Overcome. Crowd swaying, singing, holding hands.
Speeches from The Internet Archive Audio Collection
1957 How To Love Your Enemies
I Have a Dream / Anti-War Demonstration / Artists Concerned with Vietnam
The Reverend Martin Luther King has been arrested in St. Augustine, Florida, while taking part in a demonstration against segregation in the resort, specifically the Monson Motor Lodge. Reverend Ralph Abernathy was also arrested.