It wasn't until I was writing this that I realized I also attended the pre-screening of Black Panther hosted by Samuel L. Jackson in Atlanta. The experience was epic and to see such a film that showcased Black excellence by centering Black intelligence and resources in Atlanta, was something I will never forget. The cheers and clapping from the audience affirmed our desire to be seen for who we truly are and our determination, despite the vitriol, thrown at us hold ourselves in a light that captures the wholeness of who we are. At a time when racial injustice seemed to ooze up from the crypts of the past, Black Panther was the tincture Black America needed. The Marvel film inspired us to not only go after our dreams, but to make sure they were deemed impossible and accomplish them anyway. It gave us a sense of community and in many ways showed us how to take care of each other.
Coogler has used his creative genius to give Black America memories and provide us with a road map for a sustainable future. His films have been so positive exploring our experiences and then possibilities that I never saw him making a horror film exploring the Black American vampire. In his latest project, Coogler doesn't run away from the darkness that descended on our ancestors and the ways in which they attempted to conquer it. He embraces lust and greed - everything that draws shame within the traditional Black church- in such a way that it brings us back to who we are. Rootwork, spells, and the supernatural are all apart of Black American culture and for many of us these practices serve as a tool in order to defeat the darkness that surround us. Whether its' embracing The Instructions, Lighting candles, building altars, or learning the magical arts these practices - rooted in our history- comfort us. They empower us.
Once again Coogler is timely as these spiritual practices make their way to the forefront of discussions about Black American culture, Coogler is showing us what all of that magic looks like - for better or worse. Coogler's evolution has been exciting watch. I'm happy had the opportunity to interview Coogler when he was about 13 years younger, and fresh in the industry- and he's still fresh with more experience. But more importantly he still has the same eagerness to tell controversial stories that gives us something to wrestle with afterwards. for all intents and purposes he's a wayshower, and has used his gift to open portals to our freedom and with all the rave reviews of the film Sinners, I think the rest of Black America will agree.
I hope you enjoy this week's content.
Sincerely,