African Americans and 1980s Hollywood

Presenter: Sophia Swofford

Presenter Status: Undergraduate student

Academic Year: 20-21

Semester: Spring

Faculty Mentor: Sandra Moore

Department: American Multicultural Studies

Funding Source/Sponsor: SYRCE Symposium

Screenshot URL: https://drive.google.com/uc?id=195jkkmC2rudfDQHWL3tV4dRzdafaZfnn

Abstract:
For my SYRCE project, I decided to research African American Filmmakers in Hollywood in the 1980s. I dove into Hollywood's history as well for some context, and layed out some disturbing facts within the film industry. I also talked about how the 1970s paved the way for African American Filmmakers to be successful and be heard. One of the most influential filmmakers who is African American was Spike Lee. Lee completely challenged the film industry with his films. I also researched women African American filmmakers in the 1980s, and how Julie Dash was the first African American woman to have her own film created and released successfully.