"Within Our Gates" exposed the genius of the first black silent-film director, Oscar Micheaux's. The screening was presented by Norman Studios and hosted by The Adrian Pickett Gallery. The film was a great addition to this year’s Black History Month tribute and there was some discussion of the film after the viewing. Norman Studios will continue to present other “silent films” in the future.
Concerning the synopsis of the movie, the Doctor, who was mentioned in the description below, was of Cuban decent. It was very commendable of Micheaux to incorporate many Caucasian men, women and children in this particular production. Back then, it would be considered highly unlikely. The film was a little “bitter sweet” to watch, but it brought on the realization that we are not living in times as was depicted. Sure, there is still some racial unrest; nonetheless, we are living in a considerably more evolved era. Some people have changed.
About the film: The plot features an African-American woman who goes North in an effort to raise money for a rural school in the Deep South for poor Black children. Her romance with a black doctor eventually leads to revelations about her family's past and her own mixed-race, European ancestry. The film portrays racial violence under white supremacy, and the lynching of a black man. Produced, written and directed by Oscar Micheaux, it is the oldest known surviving film made by an African-American director.
Some of those who attended the event were: Alicia Bertine, Account Executive & Assistant Producer of Stargroves Films; Cher Davis of Manikin Model & Talent Agency; Rick Traum, Nadine Vaughn and Dave D’Ardenne of Film Amelia! Inc. and Rita Reagan, Outreach Coordinator of Norman Studios.
If you missed the movie “Within Our Gates” then stay tuned for the next ‘Silent-Film Festival’ sponsored by Norman Studios.
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