The Underappreciated, Unsung Figures of Black Cinema History

On this special episode of The Letterboxd Show, Mia chats with Cheryl Dunye about the Criterion Collection’s new release of her groundbreaking 1996 film The Watermelon Woman, which was the first feature directed by an out Black lesbian. Written, directed and starring Cheryl herself, The Watermelon Woman follows a young Black lesbian who works a day job in a video store while trying to make a film about a Black actress from the 1930s, known for playing the stereotypical “mammy” roles relegated to Black actresses during that period. Cheryl talks to Mia about her signature “Dunyementaries,” finding cinematic inspiration from the likes of Julie Dash and Charles Burnett, and how sometimes you have to create your own history.

Sponsor: Searchlight Pictures presents Theatre Camp playing in select theatres on July 14.

Credits: Recorded in Los Angeles, CA. Edited by Slim. Theme music: “Vampiros Danceoteque” by Moniker. Editorial producer: Brian Formo. Production manager: Sophie Shin. The Letterboxd Show and Weekend Watchlist are TAPEDECK productions.