Criterion Streaming Classic Movies By Black Filmmakers For Free
The Criterion Channel, a cinephile’s dream streaming library, releases a statement in support of the Black Lives Matter movement and black filmmakers.
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The Criterion Channel announced today on Twitter that they will use their platform to highlight films created by black filmmakers and centered on Black Lives. When Warner Bros.’ FilmStruck, the initial streaming service for classic film buffs, went under in 2019, The Criterion Channel came to take its place. Currently, they are streaming over 1,000 titles ranging from genres like classic, contemporary, international, art-house, and independent films.
In a note signed by CEO Jonathan Turell and President Peter Becker, Criterion shared a list on Twitter of pioneers of African American cinema including a few black films they are now streaming for free–even for those who do not have a subscription. In addition, they shared their solidarity with the BLM movement and decried systemic racism, listing out the names of black people who have been murdered such as Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd. Criterion also started an ongoing monthly commitment of $5,000 to support organizations fighting racism and police brutality. Within their own company, they have plans to create a more diverse and equitable environment starting with education and training of staff and ownership. They have followed suit with many other companies such as Disney and Marvel Studios in an effort to support equality and anti-racism.
Criterion Channel shared they will “highlight films that focus on Black Lives including works by early pioneers of African American cinema such as Oscar Micheaux; classics by Maya Angelou, Julie Dash, William Greaves, Kathleen Collins, Cheryl Dunye, and Charles Burnett; contemporary work by Khalik Allah and Leilah Weinraub; and documentary portraits of black experience by white filmmakers Les Blank and Shirley Clarke.”
Despite the lack of representation and racism in Hollywood, black filmmakers and films featuring black characters are making strides. With the success of BlacKkKlansman, Black Panther, The Last Black Man in San Francisco, and Just Mercy, audiences have been asking for more diversity on-screen. It is reassuring and hopeful that streaming giants like Criterion Channel are taking a step forward to ensure black cinema and voices, both old and new, are seen and heard.
Link Source : https://screenrant.com/criterion-collection-black-filmmakers-movies-streaming-free/