A tribute to Black Music Month, our great leaders, Harry Belafonte and Nelson Mandela, and acknowledgement of the 37th Anniversary of the Soweto Uprising.
Schedule and description
Friday, June 21st
5pm – Kaleb (2012) by Kervans Barthelemy–77 mins
An impressive first feature film, KALEB tells the story of a Haitian American family trying to faithfully live the ‘American Dream’. Those dreams are quickly shattered, however, when their eldest son is wrongfully accused of an act of violence. The film skillfully explores the themes of father and son relationships; balancing family values versus peer pressure; and modernity versus tradition. As the filmmaker himself states: “The film is a manifestation of my dreams and a testimonial of my upbringing as a Haitian, seventh day Adventist. The film reminds us of what’s most important: Family. “
7pm – 10:30pm –Toussaint L’Ouverture – by Philip Niang – 180 mins
As the first Black nation to wrestle independence from European colonialists through armed resistance, Haiti’s majestic history is revealed through the lens of its most revered leader, Toussaint L’Ouverture. At the age of 50, he leads a successful revolution against France bringing hard fought freedom to his people and his country. Director Philip Niang craftfully weaves the dynamic story of this emblematic and universal hero in a comprehensive, two part drama, keeping you on the edge of your seat. Talkback with special surprise guests.
Saturday, June 22nd
2pm — Kaleb
3:45pm – Sing Your Song (2012) by Suzanne Rostock – 104 minutes
Sing Your Song is an up close look at a great American, Harry Belafonte. A patriot to the last and a champion for worldwide human rights, Belafonte is one of the truly heroic cultural and political figures of the past 60 years. Told from Mr. Belafonte’s point of view, Sing Your Song takes us on a journey through Harry Belafonte’s life, work, and most of all, his conscience, as it inspires us all to action! With a special guest appearance by Mr. Belafonte.
6:00pm – Chico and Rita (2012) by Fernando Trueba – 94 minutes
Oscar®-winning director Fernando Trueba (Belle Epoque) and Spain’s most famous designer Javier Mariscal create a passionate, animated love story, nominated for Best Animated Feature at the 2012 Academy Awards. The story revolves around a gifted songwriter and beautiful singer chasing their dreams – and each other – from Havana to New York and Las Vegas. Chico is a young piano player with big dreams. Rita is a beautiful singer with an extraordinary voice. Music and romantic desire unite them, but their journey – in the tradition of the Latin ballad, the bolero – brings heartache and torment. In Spanish with English subtitles. Special Q&A with musicians involved in the film.
Sunday, June 23rd
3pm – Dear Mandela (2011) by Dara Kell and Christopher Nizza– 93 mins.
WBAI/AfroBeat Radio Fundraiser – special ticket price $30
Destroyed homes, threats at gunpoint and high-court action, this battle by three young people to stand up for their rights is a testimony to people power. When the South African government promises to ‘eradicate the slums’ and begins to evict shack dwellers far outside the city, three friends who live in Durban’s vast shantytowns refuse to be moved. Dear Mandela follows their journey from their shacks to the highest court in the land as they invoke Nelson Mandela’s example and become leaders in a growing social movement. By turns inspiring, devastating and funny, the film offers a new perspective on the role that young people can play in political change and is a fascinating portrait of South Africa coming of age. Followed by a panel discussion with special guest appearances.
6:15pm –Toussaint L’Ouverture
Additional screenings of Toussaint L’Ouverture on Friday, June 28th at 7pm and Sunday, June 30th at 3pm
To purchase tickets, click here
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