Blackface and Hollywood

Since the dawn of cinema and until the mid-20th century, the minstrel show-based practice of donning blackface to portray characters of African descent has been a staple in Hollywood. Our colleagues explain blackface’s harmful history and how its usage has been damaging for Black representation.

Directed by —, Blackface and Hollywood leans on a strong ensemble — Eric Lott, Jacqueline Najuma Stewart, Donald Bogle — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2019.