“Hollywood Black” by Justin Simien is an extraordinary history of black cinema

Justin Simien’s incredible latest documentary concerning the history of black cinema, “Hollywood Black” on MGM+ is a love letter to the history of black cinema. Simien gives us incredible insight into the history of black cinema. It tells the story of inspiring stars who broke down segregation in America, akin to Sidney Poitier and Dorothy Dandridge. It takes us into Blaxploitation and its aggressive blackness and hyperrealism. It takes us through the Nineteen Eighties boom led by Spike Lee. He takes us through the business and important triumph of “Black Panther.” This is the very best black film history class ever created.

“Hollywood Black” is a history lesson that reminds us that black cinema has inspired us, dissatisfied us and uplifted us. It is an art form that is extremely vital since it helps create the way in which we see ourselves. When we’re on the cinema and watch a black cinema giant, we feel empowered and strengthened. When we view something limiting or embarrassing, we feel indignant or ashamed. Black cinema is an important art form – I’m as moved by the genius of Denzel Washington as I’m by the genius of LeBron James. I would like Blaxploitation movies to assist me understand who we’re as humans, just as I would like the unforgettable songs that grew from their soundtracks.

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But greater than that, black movies help shape who we predict we’re. Simien knows that cinema has the facility to shape how people see themselves and others around them. This is an vital theme throughout “Hollywood Black.” Simien knows that being a filmmaker and understanding what film is doing, in addition to understanding the facility of images, is crucial, especially for Black people who find themselves less often seen on screen.