In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema
The true story of a lost era.
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.
Directed by Brad Osborne · Written by Brad Osborne
Cast
-
Lawrence Varnado Narrator -
Herb Jeffries Himself -
Ruby Dee Herself -
Jeni Le Gon Herself - Leroy Collins Himself
-
Pearl Bowser Herself
Make it a double feature
1h 44m together
In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema
Jackpot: America's Biggest Lotto Scam
Both from Brad Osborne.
More from Brad OsborneSee all →
Jackpot: America's Biggest Lotto Scam · 2025
Hall of Mirrors · 2001
Walt Disney: Behind the Magic · 2024
Murder Made Me Famous · 2015
The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College · 2008
The Trial of Jack the Ripper · 2023
I Am Alive: Surviving the Andes Plane Crash · 2010
Clint Eastwood: Hollywood Outlaw · 2020
Killing JFK: 50 Questions Answered · 2013
Killer Teens · 2012
Chariot · 2013
Manson: Summer of Blood · 2024
Miz Cracker's Favorite Haunts · 2024
Reagan: From Movie Star to President · 2016
M*A*S*H: When Television Changed Forever · 2022
Rising from the Rails: The Story of the Pullman Porter · 2006More Like This
Couldn't load this row right now.
