Black Film History at Universal

There's a lack of proper representation for black filmmakers today, but this problem isn't new. It originates all the way back at the birth of the film industry - where black actors were either excluded entirely, or included in films in roles that at best, reaffirmed the status quo, and at worst, promoted terrible stereotypes that seeped into real life. On top of that, this part of the film industry is vastly under-studied and preserved for history. And what I cover here today is just the tip of the iceberg. One of my viewers asked me to make a video that talked about Universal's decisions to cast black actors in films, as well as some of the iconic musical performances of the 1930s and '40s - and in particular, a crazy film called Hellzapoppin, with one of the most incredible dance numbers I've seen.

Make sure you check out Imitation of Life which is considered one of the most important films on race, and for more information: click here to learn more about the movie, and here to explore some historic critiques.