BLST 252 African-American Film: 1967–Present

This course studies major movements and watershed moments in post-Civil Rights Movement black film. It begins with, what is known as, the "LA Rebellion," a moment of a radical reconceptualization of filmmaking fostered by black students during their studies at the UCLA film school, and arrives in a present that is characterized by independent film and non-theatrical outlets. Emphasis will be placed on films that express innovation and experimentation. We will trace the evolution (and occasional devolution) of cinematic themes such as the representation of slavery, the depiction of black interiority, representations of gender and sexuality, and the portrayal of race itself. Films we might study include: Selma, Fruitvale Station, Daughters of the Dust, Lemonade, Pariah, Bush Mama, Do the Right Thing, and An Oversimplification of Her Beauty.