‘Time for Change: Actions Not Words’ is the theme of 2022’s Black History Month. Celebrated each October since 1987 in the UK, this month provides people with African or Caribbean heritage with a space for expression. During this period, important Black figures are given limelight while having their achievements highlighted. It’s also an opportunity to raise awareness about racism and stereotypes that Black people are still unfortunately subjected to. So, as an ode to Black History Month, here is a non-exhaustive selection of films to learn a little bit more about the history of people with African or Caribbean roots.
- Green Book, by Peter Farrelly, 2018
Green Book narrates the story of a famous African-American pianist, Dr Don Shirley, who decides, at the beginning of the 60s, to go on tour in the deep South of the United States. He is accompanied by Tony Lip, his Italian-American driver. Beyond a tale of beautiful friendship, the film depicts the tough reality of the African-Americans living in the racist and segregationist South of the US. Green Book was first used as the name of a guide used by the African-Americans during the Jim Crow Laws era, to enable them to travel safely and find places where access won’t be refused.
- Hidden Figures, by Theodore Melfi, 2016
Based on a true story, Hidden Figures portrays an American society still deeply divided and discriminative. Hidden Figures is the story of three African-American scientists working for NASA who will fight to have their work recognized by their White male colleagues. This is a powerful film that questions the place given to women of colour in the world of science and ultimately, within the American society.
- Malcolm X, Invictus, The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman and all the biopics dedicated to emblematic Black figures
Biopics are truly a great way to discover and learn more about the story of people who have fought for the rights of the Black community. Many films and documentaries were produced for this purpose – whether to learn about the life of the American civil rights leader, Malcom X (Malcolm X, by Spike Lee, 1992) or understand the impact of Apartheid on South African society (Invictus, by Clint Eastwood, 2009). Biopics undoubtedly allow the audience to gain more appreciation of the issues addressed, and in this case, the Black community’s rich history and their battle for rights.
- The Woman King, by Gina Prince-Bythewood, 2022
Released on October 4th, this blockbuster is the first film produced in which the leading role is played by an African-American woman, actress Viola Davis. The story takes place in the 1800s, within an all-female tribe of fighters, the Agojie. The film represents a brilliant way to promote the strength and determination of these women while simultaneously working towards overturning gender and racial stereotypes.
- Black Panther and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, by Ryan Coogler, 2018 and 2022
Another film with a massive cultural impact, Black Panther, and its sequel Wakanda Forever which is scheduled for November 11th, 2022, are part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. T’Challa, aka Black Panther, is the first black superhero to appear in the comics. He’s the king of Wakanda, a prosperous and technologically advanced African country. In the first film, T’Challa was confronted by old enemies, endangering not only his throne but also the entire world order. As it eventually established itself as a blockbuster film in the mainstream, Black Panther successfully introduced diversity to Marvel’s lengthy list of superheroes and also offered a fresher and less dated perspective on African countries and people.
To learn more about what is Black History Month and what are the events planned in Leeds, please visit this website: https://equality.leeds.ac.uk/events/black-history-month-2022/?utm_source=roundup&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Black+History+Month#_Toc114562192
Written by: Alice Lardry
Edited by: Harsheni Maniarasan