Paper , Order, or Assignment Requirements

1. Originally, how were African American actors depicted in movies in what Van Peebles’ refers to as the “Old Negro” era?

2. What is meant by the “New Negro” and how did the representation change during this era?

3. How were black actors portrayed in independent black films?

4. Why did black actors play in roles that weren’t necessarily positive stereotypes?

5. What is meant by the “No Negro” era?

6. How does Van Peebles describe the “Blaxploitation” era in film? What was his contribution to the genre?

7. Since 1998, when this documentary was made, how have opportunities changed for African American actors? Be specific. Names of actors, roles they’ve played, titles of movies, awards won, etc.