Description
Book SynopsisTrade Review"Anyone hoping to accelerate the current momentum in black cinema, develop new models of production and distribution, or simply gain a better understanding of how race impacts business decisions in Hollywood, should consult Ndounou’s well-researched book." -- Henry Louis Gates, Jr. * Alphonse Fletcher University Professor, Harvard University *
"Ndounou compiles a phenomenal archive to diagnose and guide possibilities for the development of un-segregated, internationally viable Black film liberated from structural restraints that endorse racism and curtail creative freedom."
-- Stephanie Batiste * author of Darkening Mirrors: Imperial Representations in Depression Era African American Performance *
"Ndounou provides a comprehensive examination of African American filmmakers' experience in producing, distributing, and marketing economically profitable films in the Hollywood cinema industry. Most compelling is her demonstration of how industry standards make it difficult for black films to generate profits. This thorough, well-researched book is a must read. Highly recommended." * Choice *
"Anyone hoping to accelerate the current momentum in black cinema, develop new models of production and distribution, or simply gain a better understanding of how race impacts business decisions in Hollywood, should consult Ndounou’s well-researched book." -- Henry Louis Gates, Jr. * Alphonse Fletcher University Professor, Harvard University *
"Ndounou compiles a phenomenal archive to diagnose and guide possibilities for the development of un-segregated, internationally viable Black film liberated from structural restraints that endorse racism and curtail creative freedom."
-- Stephanie Batiste * author of Darkening Mirrors: Imperial Representations in Depression Era African American Performance *
"Ndounou provides a comprehensive examination of African American filmmakers' experience in producing, distributing, and marketing economically profitable films in the Hollywood cinema industry. Most compelling is her demonstration of how industry standards make it difficult for black films to generate profits. This thorough, well-researched book is a must read. Highly recommended." * Choice *
Table of ContentsIntroduction: the color of Hollywood: black, white or green?
Finding freedom on stage and screen. The plantation lives!
Insurrection!: African American film's revolutionary potential through black theatre
Black pathology sells: books and films
Playing with fire: black women's literature/white box office
A breaking the chains of history and genre
It' not just business: color-coded economics and original films
The paradox of branding, black star power, and box office politics
Big business: hip hop gangsta films and black comedies
Conclusion: the story behind the numbers
