With today’s current events these films of the past couldn’t be more relevant. Each one of these films has a whisper that speaks to your spirit. Inspiring you to seek more about the brutal truth of the African roots in America. Here is our list of must watch black films:
1. Sankofa (1993)
Sankofa is from the Akan Language in Ghana. The word and the symbol translate to “it is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind.” A proverb encouraging us to know that which we have come from so that we know and have the tools we need to get where we are going. This is also what Pursuit of Nappiness is about, as we seek the roots/truth in life’s pursuit. This 1993 classic was created by Ethiopian director Haile Gerima. The story follows a model during a photo shoot in Ghana who meets a mystic and undergoes a spiritual transportation to the past where she is now a slave. You must experience the unique style of a Halie Gerima film. If you’re ever in DC you can stop at the Sankofa Cafe & Bookstore to pick up a copy. If you’re lucky the owner will be there, tell him Pursuit of Nappiness sent you.
2. Panther (1995)
Don’t expect to learn about the Black Panther party in your history books. But get a glimpse into the movement’s trajectory. The rise and fall of a great organization. Panthers exposes the FBI’s COINTELPRO program, which was designed to track and destroy African-American political movements. The film also reveals the FBI’s partnership with MOB organizations to flood highly black populated inner-city ghettos with narcotics such as cocaine & heroine, “allegedly” (Wendy Williams voice). You’ll also enjoy the cast filled with your favorites such as Chris Rock, Angela Bassett, Chris Tucker, Roger Guenveur Smith, Kadeem Hardison, Bookem Woodbine, and Jenifer Lewis. The screenplay was written by Marvin Van Peebles based on his novel Panthers. And directed by his son Mario Van Peebles.
Watch Now (if you can make it through the first 5mins of looping enjoy the film via YouTube).
3. Killer of Sheep (1978)
Charles Burnett
Known as African American Masterpiece Cinema, this film paved the way for classic & abstract stories. Killer of Sheep was 1 of the first 50 films selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.” The film examines black life in Watts during the mid 1970s through the eyes of Stan, a father drained by his work in a slaughterhouse. Although this film may be difficult to locate I just found a copy at my school’s library! You can also purchase here http://www.milestonefilms.com/products/killer-of-sheep.
Which films woke up your spirit and sent you on a journey of consciousness? Share in the comments below. Don’t forget to like,share, and subscribe! Remember We Are All in Pursuit!
Leave a Reply