In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema (2007)

Name: In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema
Genre: Documentary
Released: 2020-06-29
Duration: 59 min
Rating: 65
Cast: Lawrence Varnado, Herb Jeffries, Ruby Dee, Jeni Le Gon, Leroy Collins

Movie"The true story of a lost era."

Audience Score

In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema

Watch on Amazon Video

NR 59 minSep 15th, 2007Documentary

This documentary captures the sounds and images of a nearly forgotten era in film history when African American filmmakers and studios created “race movies” exclusively for black audiences. The best of these films attempted to counter the demeaning stereotypes of black Americans prevalent in the popular culture of the day. About 500 films were produced, yet only about 100 still exist. Filmmaking pioneers like Oscar Micheaux, the Noble brothers, and Spencer Williams, Jr. left a lasting influence on black filmmakers, and inspired generations of audiences who finally saw their own lives reflected on the silver screen.

StarringLawrence VarnadoHerb JeffriesRuby Dee

DirectorBrad Osborne

WriterBrad Osborne

Movie Details Where to Watch Full Cast & Crew