If you were to ask me to categorize HBO’s adaptation of author Ta-Nehisi Coates’s Between the World and Me – his poignant, poetic reflection on the glories and struggles of American Blackness. Drama? Documentary? Directed by Kamilah Forbes, the production is presently airing on HBO, and was first staged at the Apollo Theater in 2018, where Forbes serves as executive producer.
Forbes has assembled an impressive array of performers, from musicians Ledisi and Black Thought to veteran actors like Wendell Pierce, Joe Morton, Phylicia Rashad, and Angela Bassett. Two-time Oscar-winner Mahershala Ali delivers a bittersweet monologue about past and present lovers and the birth of Coates’ son, Samori. “Black-ish’s Yara Shahidi, perhaps the youngest person in this cast, speaks of Coates’ school days while sitting in what looks like a dorm. Angela Davis appears in archival and current footage, bridging the gap between past and present activism. Even Oprah shows up late in the proceedings, wearing a head wrap and evoking the spirit of Maya Angelou while basking in the glow of Bradford Young’s superb cinematography.
This best-selling book, Between the World and Me tells an urgent story of hope and resilience.
It was remarkable to see the old which portrayed pictures of various civil rights activist such as Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore who were pioneer activists and leaders of the early civil rights movement in the United States, becoming the first martyrs of the movement, and so many others. It was amazing to see the small screen which was supplemented by animation, video footage, and a coda that brings the 2015 work into the present day. The Moore’s legacy continues to be a staple in Brevard County and the recognition of the Moore’s accomplishments and contributions to the civil rights movement is garnering national attention. The Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore Cultural Center staff invites all Florida and Brevard County residents and visitors to Brevard County to learn about the Moore’s and their impact on history. Please call (321) 264-6595 to schedule a tour of the beautiful museum or stop by Monday-Friday between the hours of 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. & 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. at; 2180 Freedom Avenue, Mims, FL 32754.
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