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

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 sought to counter the demeaning stereotypes of black Americans prevalent in the era's popular culture. About 500 films were produced, yet only about 100 still exist. Filmmaking pioneers such as 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.