The Black List: Vol. 2
By Melissa Camacho,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Insightful docu is as informative, inspiring as the first.
A Lot or a Little?
What you will—and won't—find in this movie.
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What's the Story?
THE BLACK LIST: VOL. 2 is the second installment in the "The Black List Project" documentary series, which collects first-hand narratives about the African-American experience. The film features excerpts from 15 interviews with a diverse ensemble of notable African Americans, including Saturday Night Live sketch comedienne Maya Rudolph, actor/director Laurence Fishburne, country music singer Charley Pride, Anglican Bishop Barbara C. Harris, and Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick. Each of their stories offers insight into how they make sense of being a black person in America -- and about how their own unique cultural identity has shaped them into who and what they are today.
Is It Any Good?
Vol. 2's impact may be somewhat lessened by its now-predictable format, but the stories it has to tell are no less significant. These narratives give viewers the chance to better understand the power that comes with being racially aware -- as well as highlight how this awareness can positively impact the way people view themselves in society.
Like its predecessor, Vol. 2 introduces viewers to some of America's preeminent African-American educators, activists, artists, and leaders. It also draws attention to the diversity of thought, experience, and point of view within the African-American community. Ultimately, the film beautifully reflects the mission of The Black List Project: to document experiences that will continue to help us redefine race and its role in American society.
Talk to Your Kids 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?
Movie Details
- In theaters: February 26, 2009
- On DVD or streaming: October 13, 2009
- Cast: Laurence Fishburne , Maya Rudolph , Tyler Perry
- Director: Timothy Greenfield-Sanders
- Inclusion Information: Black actors, Female actors
- Studio: Indican Pictures
- Genre: Documentary
- Character Strengths: Perseverance
- Run time: 60 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 25, 2022
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