Making Waves: A Cinematic Odyssey through Black Cinema
MoMA Magazine
February 2024
Black cinema is a revolution—a dynamic and transformative force that challenges, disrupts, and redefines societal narratives. From Oscar Micheaux’s pioneering silent films to provocative sci-fi think pieces like They Cloned Tyrone, in the face of formidable challenges, Black filmmakers and performers converged to create a visual language to define our collective existence. These artists infiltrated an industry that sought to marginalize and circumscribe their contributions, working to resist racist stereotypes and navigating the commercial landscape that perpetuates them. The evolving story of Black cinema is not not only a testament to the creative tenacity of Black artists, but an acknowledgment of the lasting impact these films have had on shaping the narrative of our history.
To commemorate Black History Month, MoMA Magazine invited Black film scholars and creators to select a collection of 29 impactful Black films spanning many genres and forms. Whether hidden gems or critically acclaimed classics, these movies serve as reflections of the diverse narratives that shape the Black experience. […]