By Beds SU
Monday, 30 September 2024
This year’s theme is ‘Reclaiming Narratives’ so we have chosen a selection of films, TV programmes, and literature that encapsulate this this message.
Films
Piano Lesson
Piano Lesson is the TV adaptation of August Wilson’s 1987 play, which has recently finished a recent stint on Broadway and features most of the cast from the stage production including Samuel L. Jackson, John David Washington, Corey Hawkins and Danielle Deadwyler. Set in Pittsburgh in 1936, the film tells the story of Charles family and the family piano which holds the history of the family through a series of carvings made by their enslaved ancestor. As the family battle for ownership of the heirloom, perceptions about the past are challenged
Available on Netflix from 22 November or in cinemas from 8 November
The Six Triple Eight
The Six Triple Eight tells the true story of the US Army’s only all-Black and all-women unit, their journey and challenges. The film stars Kerry Washington, Ebony Obsidian and Milauna Jackson.
Available now on Netflix
Shirley
A powerful film that tells the true story of Shirley Chisholm who in 1972 became the first Black congresswoman with an ambition to become president of the United States of America.
Available now on Netflix
TV
The Battle for Black Music (series)
A series dedicated to the stories of musicians including Nile Rodgers, Chaka Khan and Ice T. Each episode focuses on one of their journeys as they share overcoming the challenges black artists have faces to get the recognition for the music they create.
BBC iPlayer
Linford
A powerful two-part series in which Olympian Linford Christie tells his story from getting his first break in athletics to the challenges and racial abuse he encountered, to overcoming the impact an alleged drug test failure had on his mental and physical wellbeing.
BBC iPlayer
Windrush: Portraits of a Generation
2023 marked the 75th anniversary of the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush to the UK. This inspiring documentary follows the story of ten pioneering members of the Windrush generation.
BBC iPlayer
Sprint
One for sports fans, follow current Elite sprinters in this documentary as they gear up to the Paris Olympics. From trackside to their own lives and the daily challenges of navigating media intrusion and competing to be the best in the world.
Netflix
Random Acts
A fascinating series first show in 2020 featuring a series of films from Black filmmakers. Subjects covered include: Black love stories rarely shown on TV, bursting stereotypes around young Black men and a celebration of Black mothers. There are six, 5 minute episodes available.
Channel 4
Books
Edward Enninful made history by becoming the first Black male, editor of British Vogue. The Visible Man charts his journey to making history and the role fashion played in his life.
Windrush Child – Benjamin Zephaniah
Acclaimed poet Benjamin Zephaniah bring us a beautiful and sometimes heartbreaking story of Leonard who at 10 left Jamaica with his mother to join his father in England. Drawing on research from the accounts of others from the Windrush generation and Benjamin’s own experience of growing up the UK in the 60s. One for teenagers and older readers.
Things Fall Apart – Chinua Achebe
A classic story, first published in 1958 which highlights the dangers and insults of colonialism. It follows the story of Okonkwo, who sees his life fall apart when white missionaries arrive one day and change the traditions he and others know.
And So I Roar – Abi Dare
A tale of family and secrets and a quest to uncover those that have been hidden for decades. Set in Nigeria this is the story of a mother and a daughter and the repercussions of whispered conversations.