Before Spike Lee, There Was UW’s Michael Schultz

You may not know his name, but you likely know his work. Michael Schultz forged a path at a time when there was little representation for Black directors or actors in Hollywood. 

His 1976 movie Car Wash was considered ahead of its time, with its social and cultural critique of the era. It was the first film by a Black director to compete for the prestigious awards at the Cannes Film Festival, where it won two awards. Its soundtrack won a Grammy. 

Schultz was also responsible for casting Denzel Washington and Samuel L. Jackson in their first feature films. He’s been directing for half a century, with more than a dozen movie credits to his name. Not to mention stints directing the TV series Blackish and All American.

And where did he get his start? Right here in Madison, at the University of Wisconsin. 

🎥 You can see Car Wash for free at the Chazen this Sunday, February 26th. It’s part of the UW Cinematheque’s spring film series. 

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