In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema
“The true story of a lost era.”
Synopsis
This documentary captures the sounds and images of a nearly forgotten era in film history when African American filmmakers and studios created “race movies” exclusively for black audiences. The best of these films attempted to counter the demeaning stereotypes of black Americans prevalent in the popular culture of the day. About 500 films were produced, yet only about 100 still exist. Filmmaking pioneers like Oscar Micheaux, the Noble brothers, and Spencer Williams, Jr. left a lasting influence on black filmmakers, and inspired generations of audiences who finally saw their own lives reflected on the silver screen.
Top Cast
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Release History & Theatrical Window
September 15, 2007
Physical Home Media
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Brad Osborne
- Screenplay & Story
- Brad Osborne
- Original Title
- In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 59m
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Brad Osborne
Brad Osborne
Department Leadership Roster
Brad Osborne
Writer
Brad Osborne
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema.
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Frequently Asked Questions About In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema about?
This documentary captures the sounds and images of a nearly forgotten era in film history when African American filmmakers and studios created “race movies” exclusively for black audiences. The best of these films attempted to counter the demeaning stereotypes of black Americans prevalent in the popular culture of the day. About 500 films were produced, yet only about 100 still exist. Filmmaking pioneers like Oscar Micheaux, the Noble brothers, and Spencer Williams, Jr. left a lasting influence on black filmmakers, and inspired generations of audiences who finally saw their own lives reflected on the silver screen.
Who directed In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema?
In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema was directed by Brad Osborne.
Who stars in In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema?
The principal cast of In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema includes Lawrence Varnado, Herb Jeffries, Ruby Dee, Jeni Le Gon, Leroy Collins.
When was In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema released and how long is it?
In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black Cinema was released in 2007 with a total runtime of 59m.