Pioneers of African-American Cinema

Sat-Sun, March 4-5 | Sat-Sun, March 11-12 Among the most fascinating chapters of film history is that of the so-called “race films” that flourished in the 1920s-40s. Unlike the “black cast” films produced in Hollywood, these films not only starred African Americans but were funded, written, produced, edited, distributed, and often exhibited by people of color. Previously circulated in poor-quality 16mm prints, these restored versions allow modern audiences to witness the legacies of Oscar Micheaux, Spencer Williams, and James and Eloyce Gist with fresh eyes. Anything but imitative, these pioneers were truly innovative.