In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema

Film

In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema

6.5200759mDocumentary
Director
Brad Osborne
Year
2007

The true story of a lost era.

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.

Top cast

Directed by

Brad Osborne

Written by

Brad Osborne