Sweden
2011/digital cinema/100mins
THURSDAY 3 NOVEMBER 8.15 PM – BUY!
Using extraordinary footage shot by Swedish journalists in the era before spin, this groundbreaking film follows the rise of the Black Power movement in the USA.
In the 1960s and 1970s, Swedish journalists developed a fascination with the political upheavals in the USA, reporting the race riots and the clammer of voices calling for change – including charismatic figures Stokely Carmichael and Angela Davis. Their coverage of the issue was so extensive that it caused diplomatic relations between the two nations to be cut off in 1972.
Nearly 40 years later, director Goran Olsson uncovered the 16mm footage in the basement of Swedish television company and instantly realised its value. Combining the archival material with a contemporary commentary and soundtrack, Olsson has created an extraordinary insight into a nation that seemed to be tearing itself apart.
Screenings at Sundance, Melbourne International Film festivals
“This is a film that should be seen by anyone who wants to learn where the USA has come from as a nation.” James Greenburg, The Hollywood Reporter
“a powerful chronicle of the birth and life of a movement” Dave Itzkoff, New York Times
“a remarkable film with footage from true outsiders filming outsiders as they fight to make their way into the system.” Daniel Loria, IndieWire
Director Goran Olsson
Producers Annika Rogell
Cast Erykah Badu, Harry Belafonte, Stokely Carmichael, Danny Glover
Print Source Curious Films
