This 1991 independent film was the first feature film that a Black woman (Julie Dash) directed that had theatrical distribution in the US. As other reviews have highlighted, "Daughters of the Dust" is a difficult film to watch and at times to understand. I'm happy to call out independent or art films that are obvious or heavy handed in their formal experimentation But this film is challenging for good reasons and it yields layers worth reflecting on.
The film focuses on a Black family in Georgia in 1902 and reckons with the legacy of slavery in the US. Instead of focusing the tragedy of this aspect of American history, as many other films do, it celebrates the unique culture and language of this family.
The principal photography and cinematography were done by the talented Arthur Jafa. This is one of the most memorable and successful aspects of the film.
I don't think this film will be for everyone. But if you're interested in the history of film (especially Black US film) this is a must see. Making a film like this in the 2020s might not work as well but it came at the end of cinema's most meaningful experimental period.
The film focuses on a Black family in Georgia in 1902 and reckons with the legacy of slavery in the US. Instead of focusing the tragedy of this aspect of American history, as many other films do, it celebrates the unique culture and language of this family.
The principal photography and cinematography were done by the talented Arthur Jafa. This is one of the most memorable and successful aspects of the film.
I don't think this film will be for everyone. But if you're interested in the history of film (especially Black US film) this is a must see. Making a film like this in the 2020s might not work as well but it came at the end of cinema's most meaningful experimental period.