“Imagine cinema history without Paul Robeson, Dorothy Dandridge, Sidney Poitier, Pam Grier and Samuel L. Jackson – some of the greatest actors to light up our screens with their charisma and talent. Now imagine how much richer our shared memory would be, had the opportunities available to black actors matched their abilities,” challenges Heather Stewart, Creative Director of the British Film Institute (BFI).
The BFI has unveiled “Black Star”, a nationwide event that will be the UK’s biggest ever season of film and television celebrating black actors’ versatility and talent. “Black Star” will bring the spotlight back to the achievements of black actors from the earliest years of cinema all the way through to present-day films showcasing black leading roles. The celebratory programme aims to present pioneering and contemporary black performances to new generations of UK audiences in order to give their stardom and importance a rebirth in our collective memory. Screenings include Boys N the Hood, In the Heat of the Night, Foxy Brown and Dreamgirls.
“Black Star” will be an event comprising:
1 . Cinema re-releases throughout the UK, including at BFI’s own Southbank Cinema
2 . Over 275 bespoke screenings over 90 UK Locations organised by the BFI FAN
3 . A collection of over 50 films available through BFI Player (their online streaming service)
4 . A selection of films on BFI DVD/Blu-ray
BFI’s “Black Star” will run from 17 October to 31 December 2016