Black Film by Hannah

In 1998, black filmmaker Melvin Van Peebles cast a raw, unapologetically personal eye on the history of African-American screen imagery in “Classified X.” This film examines the treatment of black characters through the history of American cinema. 

Before I get into my thoughts on the film, I want to say that Peebles did an amazing job with his commentary and visuals. He created an emotional connection with his audience. 

Although this is based on black film I don’t think his target audience is only black people. I think everyone should watch this. I found it informative and accurate for the most part. In addition, I believe that it’s important to know that this film was made by a black person. I don’t like when non-black people try to talk or represent us. They can not relate. 

I’d like to first point out that Peebles emphasized how America’s racist, stereotyping behaviors started long before D.W. Griffith’s, Birth Of A Nation, film. Caucasians have always put on black face when they felt like being extra stupid. I have come across the Birth Of A Nation film in several conversations and most people believe that was the start of the stereotypical programming about black people. I think Birth of a Nation is part of the widespread negative connotation that non-black people have on blacks. The power of film is real. 

Peebles showed many devastating and heartbreaking scenes in films and gradually showed empowering films by black people. It told a tale of how black Americans struggled to gain dignity in an industry that continued to humiliate them in many ways. Hollywood established institutionalized racism through film. It resulted in not only brainwashing non-blacks but blacks themselves into thinking they are worthless, when they are truly the most talented. Although the film industry has given opportunities for blacks, America has not changed in ways they depict the black community. It’s a work in progress. 

Black is strong. Black is smart. Black is beautiful.

I will continue to support black films and help change the negative depictions of blacks.