Lena Younger listens to a beseeching Sidney Poitier in a scene from Raisin in the Sunalr

Afro Promo

Introduction by Jenni Olson
Directed by many filmmakers. Curated by Karl Knapper and Jenni Olson.
US, 1997, 35mm, color and b&w, 75 min.
Print source: HFA

Co-curated by Jenni Olson and the late Black gay activist Karl Knapper, this entertaining showcase of vintage movie trailers traces the evolution of African American cinema through its most crucial period, 1952-1976. Filled with insights on race and social dynamics, this fascinating compendium of coming attractions explores an extensive range of stylistic approaches—Blaxploitation, Comedy, Music Bio, Plantation Drama and more—offering an outrageous joyride through motion picture history. Beyond mere camp, these marvelously condensed gems crystallize a range of African American identities and personalities, tracking the meteoric careers of Sidney Poitier, James Earl Jones, Billy Dee Williams, Richard Pryor, Pam Grier and others through their bold performances in movies both hugely popular and practically forgotten. Hailed by The Boston Globeas "hilarious and provocative," Afro Promo provides a compact glimpse at the representation of African Americans through twenty-five dynamic years of American cinema history. Please note: The condition of these original 35mm archival prints varies — enjoy the wear and tear!

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