The Business
Justin Simien’s ‘Hollywood Black’ chronicles the pioneers of African American cinema; Phoenix and Paramount bail
Aug 16, 2024
Justin Simien, the creator of 'Dear White People', dives into the rich history of African American cinema with his new docuseries, 'Hollywood Black'. He highlights key figures like Oscar Micheaux and discusses the impact of Black narratives in film. NPR's Eric Deggans joins to unpack the challenges Black filmmakers face, including appropriation in Hollywood. Together, they explore the triumphs and struggles in representing Black culture authentically. Also, the chaos in Hollywood with Joaquin Phoenix's abrupt film exit and layoffs at Paramount adds to the tension of an evolving industry.
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Quick takeaways
- Justin Simien's docuseries 'Hollywood Black' highlights the historical and ongoing contributions of Black filmmakers while addressing systemic barriers in the industry.
- The recent exit of Joaquin Phoenix from a project underscores the vulnerabilities faced by Black artists in high-stakes film productions.
Deep dives
The Significance of 'Hollywood Black'
The docu-series 'Hollywood Black' by Justin Simien explores the extensive yet challenging history of Black filmmakers in Hollywood. By featuring archival footage and interviews with influential figures in cinema, the series highlights both the strides made by Black artists and the persistent obstacles they face. Simien emphasizes the cyclical nature of Black creativity being appropriated, illustrating how innovators often find themselves sidelined despite their contributions. This historical context is crucial in understanding the current landscape of Black representation in film and offers a pathway to recognition and empowerment within the industry.
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