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The Black List: Vol. 2

(Rated NR, Educational, Starring Laurence Fishburne, Tyler Perry, Maya Rudolph, Where to watch: HBO)

  • 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

    Insightful docu is as informative, inspiring as the first.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 14 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Positive message about racial awareness, empowerment, and the strength of your community. Topics like stereotyping, racial discrimination, and community activism are discussed.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    A few pictures of activist Angela Davis getting carried away in handcuffs and being featured on the FBI's "Most Wanted" lists in the 1970s. Some discussions about gang violence.

  • Sex:

    Mild references to womanizing.

  • Language:

    Language includes racial epithets like the "N" word, but these are mostly offered within the context of personal stories. Other words include "hell," "s--t," and "f--k."

  • Consumerism:

    Some of the interviewees briefly discuss works that they've written, produced, and/or performed over the years, but it's not in the context of promotion.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Some photographs show artists/performers smoking cigarettes. Some discussions about living in areas where drug violence was/is frequent -- but these stories are offered within the context of explaining what some interviewees had to overcome.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The Black List: Vol. 2

Parents need to know that this insightful documentary continues the exploration and celebration of the black experience in the United States begun in The Black List: Vol. 1. Like the first film, it offers positive messages about racial awareness and community but also touches on some strong issues -- including discrimination and AIDS. Some interviewees use strong language, including the "N" word and curses like "s--t" and "f--k".

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about "The Black List" that inspired the movie. Who else do you think should be added to this list? Why? Families can also discuss the African-American experience in the United States. What can African Americans' history in this country teach us? What lessons can the history of other racial and ethnic groups in America offer? How can the media be used to teach more about these issues?
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