Black Is...Black Ain't

An Exploration of Black Identity

Part of the Series: California Newsreel Essential Collection

The final film by filmmaker Marlon Riggs, BLACK IS...BLACK AIN'T, jumps into the middle of explosive debates over Black identity. White Americans have always stereotyped African Americans. But the rigid definitions of "Blackness" that African Americans impose on each other, Riggs claims, have also been devastating. Is there an essential Black identity? Is there a litmus test defining the real Black man and true Black woman?

While BLACK IS...BLACK AIN'T, rejoices in Black diversity, many speakers bare their pain at having been silenced or excluded because they were perceived as "not Black enough" or conversely "too Black." The film marshals a powerful critique of sexism, patriarchy, homophobia, colorism and cultural nationalism in the Black family, church and other Black institutions.

Winner of the Filmmakers Trophy at the Sundance Film Festival. Official Selection at the San Francisco International Film Festival.

"A dense, sizzling, stimulating gumbo of thought and emotion...A fascinating, challenging film." - San Francisco Chronicle