Ethnic Notions. 1986. Directed by Marlon Riggs

Includes the following films:

Ethnic Notions

1986. USA. Directed by Marlon Riggs. This Emmy Award–winning documentary takes viewers on a disturbing tour through American history, exploring the deep-rooted, dehumanizing stereotypes that have flourished in film and fueled anti-black prejudice in society. The horror of the imagery on show—loyal Toms, carefree sambos, faithful mammies, grinning coons, savage brutes, and wide-eyed pickaninnies—is counterbalanced by Riggs’s calm, sober style. Courtesy California Newsreel. DCP. 57 min.

Lip

1999. Australia. Directed by Tracey Moffat, Gary Hillberg. This sharp, uplifting short pulls from the archives some precious moments when movie maids and mammies, so often silent figures, snapped back with wit and spirit. DCP. 10 min.