5 documentary films everyone should watch

In honor of Black History Month 2024, PinkNews is recommending five documentaries that focus on Black LGBTQ+ stories.

Black History Month is celebrated every October and has been an annual event in the United States since the 1920s and in the United Kingdom since 1987. It provides an opportunity to celebrate, reflect on, and understand the influences of Black heritage and culture that have often been overlooked. by society.

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paris is burning (1990)

Filmed over 7 years, paris is burning It follows gay men and trans women of color as they grace the social world with color, fashion, and fierce voguing.

Jenny Livingston’s documentary follows the lives of members of the community, revealing the poverty, racism, and homophobia they faced.

A must-see for anyone who wants to understand the origins of modern ballroom culture and the resilience of marginalized communities. It also touches on issues that are still prevalent today.

However, the film is not without controversy. Livingston, a white filmmaker, has been accused of voyeurism and exploitation of socially and economically disadvantaged communities. After the film grossed almost $4 million (about £2.6 million at the time), the producers distributed $55,000 (£36,500) to 13 participants who wanted a share of the profits. did.

Livingston claimed that the subjects of the documentary were not paid and that her own share of the profits was not enough to make her wealthy.

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The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson (2017)

Investigative journalist David France’s documentary explores the mysterious death of trans activist Johnson, whose body was found in New York’s Hudson River shortly after the 1992 Pride Parade.

The documentary explores her work and friendship with fellow activist Sylvia Rivera, and their under-reported role in the Stonewall riots. They also founded the world’s first transgender organization, Street Transvestites Action Revolutions, in 1970.

The film celebrates Johnson’s legacy while providing insight into the intersection of race and gender struggles in the LGBTQ+ movement. As the French say, “Their name should be a common word.”

He hoped the documentary would help people learn about the huge impact women have on the gay and transgender communities.

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Kiki (2016)

This film is directed by Sara Giordeno. paris is burning. This documentary continues its exploration of modern ballroom, but with a focus on the younger generation.

This work focuses on young LGBTQ+ Black and Latinx people’s struggles with homelessness, HIV, and social exclusion, but also shows how they find a safe place to gather in voguing. And it elevates a heavy theme.

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Tongues United (1989)

this poetic documentaryDirector Marlon Riggs explores the meaning of certain things. both Black and gay American.

Riggs shares stories from his early life and talks about racism within the LGBTQ+ community and homophobia within the Black community.

Through a blend of spoken word, music, and interviews, this documentary challenges stereotypes and celebrates the complexities of black gay identity.

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mama gloria (2020)

Lucina Fischer’s documentary focuses on transgender legend Gloria Alenia, Allen passed away in June 2022 at the age of 76 in an apartment at an LGBTQ+ senior housing facility in Chicago, Illinois.

The documentary tells the story of Allen, who grew up on Chicago’s South Side in the 1950s, transitioned, and became a respected elder and advocate in the LGBTQ+ community.

Fisher previously said that Mama Gloria lived as an “unapologetically proud black transgender woman” and that “black transgender women can live long, meaningful and joyful lives with the love and support of their families.” He said he has proven it in his life.

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