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Black Is the Color: African-American Artists and Segregation

Black Is the Color: African-American Artists and Segregation (2016)

Jul 07, 2016 52m Documentary History

Black Is the Color highlights key moments in the history of Black visual art, from Edmonds Lewis’s 1867 sculpture Forever Free, to the work of contemporary artists such as Whitfield Lovell, Kerry James Marshall, Ellen Gallagher, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Art historians and gallery owners place the works in context, setting them against the larger social contexts of Jim Crow, WWI, the civil rights movement and the racism of the Reagan era, while contemporary artists discuss individual works by their forerunners and their ongoing influence.

Directed by Jacques Goldstein

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Jacques Goldstein
Writer
  • Daniel Soutif
  • Jacques Goldstein
Producer
  • Anne Le Grevès

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Thematic Analysis

Black Is the Color: African-American Artists and Segregation represents a fascinating example of Documentary/History cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Jacques Goldstein brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2016, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Black Is the Color: African-American Artists and Segregation took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 52 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 100 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The costume department created over 135 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2016, when this film is released:
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Black Is the Color: African-American Artists and Segregation shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Glory, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Black Is the Color: African-American Artists and Segregation subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Leonardo: The Works and Frida Kahlo explore similar territory, Black Is the Color: African-American Artists and Segregation stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: July 7, 2016
  • Runtime: 52m