Black Panthers (1968)

About Black Panthers

"Black Panthers" is a documentary-style movie directed by Agnès Varda. Released in 1968, the film closely examines the Black Panther Party during the height of the Civil Rights movement in the United States. The carefully crafted plot offers a vivid portrayal of a society gripped by racial tension, intricate politics, and revolutionary ideas. It specifically details a Black Panther rally in Oakland, California, in protest of the trial of co-founder Huey P. Newton.

Making / Production

In an era when filming techniques were still in their infancy, Agnès Varda remarkably captured the grit and spirit of the Black Panther Party. The film was shot in black and white, which added a profound layer of realism to the narrative. The keen focus on the intricate social and political dynamics of the time served as the bedrock for a powerful and moving production.

Actors

• Huey P. Newton: The co-founder of the Black Panther Party, he was filmed from jail where he was incarcerated during the time of production. His powerful portrayal brought a raw authenticity to the film.
• Stokely Carmichael: Presented as an influential figure in the Party, his passionate speeches added depth to the storyline.
• Kathleen Cleaver: As the communications secretary of the Party, her articulate and moving portrayals of the issues at hand played a crucial role in the narrative.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• "Black Panthers" was filmed in Oakland, California, a significant hub for the Black Panther Party movement.
• The film was directed by Agnès Varda, who is known as the "grandmother of the French New Wave" in filmmaking.
• The documentary was shot without a script, capturing the actual demonstrations and speeches of the time.

Quotes

• Stokely Carmichael: "We don't want Black Power. We want human power."
• Kathleen Cleaver: "We want an immediate end to Police Brutality and Murder of Black People."

Music, Soundtrack

The film "Black Panthers" does not feature a traditional soundtrack. The sounds of the protests, speeches, and bustling Oakland streets serve as the background audio, heightening the overall realism and authenticity of the film.