Black in Period Films

                Harlem Rides the Range                1939  ‧  Western  ‧  56 mins Harlem Rides the Range has the typical 1930's Western fanfare. I first thought the main character's name was Harlem which I found quite hilarious. But once I began the move realized the character's name is actually Bob Blake. Which means the movie is most likely called Harlem Rides the Range because of its All-Black Cast. You get it ... Harlem ... All-Black cast ... Get it? The cast does a great job. Herbert Jeffrey (As Bob Blake) is credited as Hollywood's first singing black cowboy. He lives up to the title in this 56 minute film. His baritone voice, good looks and charisma makes him the perfect lead for a film of this kind. The surrounding cast fills in their respective roles perfectly. Lucius Brooks as Dusty the sidekick, Wade Dumas as the Dog City sheriff and Artie Young as Miss Margaret Dennison the beautiful women in need of assistance.   Li

I am now a little over half way done reading Roots. There are 888 pages and I have reached page 500. I decide to reflect on how I feel at this point in the book. There is so much acclaim and history surrounding this book and the 1977 miniseries. I was born after the series premiered and while I might have watched Roots as a child I have to honestly say I don’t remember much. I know many of the classic scenes (Kunta Kinte’s refusal to be called Toby for example) from second hand sources. I’m more familiar with Alex Haley’s Queen. When I found out Roots was being remade I decided it was time to read the famous novel and form my own opinion of the material. With this knowledge I’d be able to watch the rebooted Roots with reasonable expectations and personal knowledge of what to expect.   Half way through the novel and I believe the acclaim surrounding the novel is well founded. I have been absolutely engrossed in the book. The characterization of Kunta Kinte is brilliant. Watch

According to Deadline Teyonah Parris is in talks to star in ‘Buffalo Soldier Girl’ for filmmaker Christine Swanson! I'm excited about this potential project. I came across a picture of Cathay Williams some time ago and was very intrigued with her story and stories of her kind. Cathay Williams posed as a man to fight during the Civil War under the name William Cathay. Although the press release did not mention Cathay the summary provided fits Cathay's story. I take that to mean it will not be a biopic but instead a movie that draws from her experience. Teyonah Parris is beautiful with period film ready natural hair. I am so ready for set photos. I hope this project works out. I have seen, read, and heard people that believe there aren't many period stories to tell about Black Americans; that simply isn't true. Black American history is dynamic. So whether they tell this as a biopic or not it has entertaining history to draw from! What do you think abou