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The Black List: Vol. 1

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 12, age appropriate for kids over 14; suggested age 14.

  • Is it any good?

    5.0

  • Common Sense says

    Profound docu explores African-American racial identity.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 14 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Positive message about self-acceptance and empowerment and the strength of your community. Participants pay homage to their ancestors, parents, and mentors. The movie also raises some very interesting (and at times controversial) issues about race and racial identity. Topics like racial discrimination are discussed -- in the context of being part of the reason people were empowered to succeed.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Brief conversations about shootings, fears about violent racists, and the Ku Klux Klan.

  • Sex:

    Writer Toni Morrison and renowned erotica author Zane discuss sexuality and female gratification. Interviewee Faye Wattleton is a former president of Planned Parenthood and briefly discusses unwanted pregnancy.

  • Language:

    Language includes racial epithets like the "N" word and "faggot," but they're mostly used within the context of personal stories. Other language includes words like "pissed" and the occasional use of expletives like "f--k".

  • Consumerism:

    Some of the interviewees briefly discuss projects that they've written and/or produced over the years, but it's not in the context of advertising or promoting them.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Some photographs show artists/performers smoking cigarettes or cigars. Discussions about African Americans dealing drugs and engaging in other related behaviors are offered in the context of what some of them had to overcome and what needs to be improved in African-American communities.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The Black List: Vol. 1

Parents need to know that this thought-provoking documentary -- which features prominent African Americans talking about how they feel about their race and racial identity within a predominantly white culture -- is one to watch and discuss with your teens. There are some strong positive messages about self-acceptance, empowerment, and community, but the film also addresses heavy topics like discrimination, sexism, and sexuality. Expect some strong language, from terms like the "N" word and "faggot" to occasional profanity (including "f—k"). That said, many of these words aren't used gratuitously but are instead offered within the context of the interviewees' personal stories.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the African-American experience in the United States. What can African Americans' history in this country teach us? How has the media reflected this experience? Families can also discuss the unique experiences that people from various ethnic backgrounds have in the United States. How does someone's race and/or ethnicity impact their life? Do you think people from different races and/or ethnic backgrounds are treated equally? Why or why not? Parents: Check out our tips on media and stereotypes.
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