Editorial Review

This animated time-travel adventure features a stellar cast and is a delight for kids and adults alike. When Matt, a black teenager, has to go on a class field trip to the museum of Martin Luther King Jr., he thinks that he'd rather play baseball. But the trip turns into an exciting adventure when he and his best friend, Randy, who's white, are sent back in time to meet Dr. King. Read more

Features

• Animated
• Closed-captioned
• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (38)

I watched this in elementary!
I watched this movie every Martin Luther King Day in elementary. I started in 4th grade then ended up in 6th. Every year I was still engrossed in the message and the characters that were put forward. I, in highschool, am ordering this movie to show my little sister who hasn't seen it and hasn't appreciated MLK. It's a must for people OF ALL AGES to see the world through MLK's eyes and what it would be without him. It allows people to connect with MLK and to see what he really strove for. I love this movie, it will never grow old! I hope to show this to my kids one day.

Great pick for MLK day
As a first grade teacher it was hard to find a movie that the kids would enjoy and learn from. This movie was great for both of those needs. The kids love the movie and I also enjoyed watching it. It was a great pick for MLK day.

DVD Our Friend Martin
Excellent service and it was just what I ordered, my students loved it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Children    2. Children's Video    3. Childrens    4. Family    5. Movie   

Editorial Review

No records were kept, but historians believe more than 100,000 slaves tried to escape their bondage before the Emancipation Proclamation.Most of those who made it to the relative safety of the north--or the wilderness, when slavery still reigned in the north--had help in the form of the Underground Railroad.Whites, free blacks, and Native Americans offered aid and shelter, though the notion of the Railroad as a kind of conspiracy of freedom, organized from north to south, is deeply flawed.Alfre Woodard links together interviews with historians, contemporary photographs, drawings, and dramatic reenactments to show the terrors of slavery and the travails of escape, exploding many of our myths along the way. The economic and political motivations behind many white abolitionists' feelings are explored, and while ultimately it didn't matter to a slave reaching out for liberty why it was offered, we are forced to reevaluate the selfless image of many "conductors." Still, freedom is freedom, and the History Channel's Read more

Features

• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (2)

Knowledge is power
This is a very good release by the history channel that sheds some light on the underground railroad. I could care less about the acting in this film because this is a documentary. Most documentaires aren't rated on how the acting is but how the information is conveyed to the masses. I felt this is a good release because it is talking about a lot of people and information that are being neglected universally in the schools of amerikkka. More documentaries about africans and our history need to be produced and fused into all schools around the nation.

Could be better
The underground railroad could have been portrayed better, not that thiswas bad, but there was some shoddy acting, aside from alfre woodard who Ithink is a solid actress, but a movie is not complete if the supportingactors aren't putting forth their best efforts. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Documentary    2. Movie   

Features

• Black & White
• Closed-captioned
• Color
• Original recording reissued
• NTSC

Reviews (4)

Ken Burns really pulled one off with this series
The first episode talks about the cause of the war and how the the conflict became inevitable.The Sullivan Ballou letter the ends the episode is very moving and you may want to have some kleenex handy.Throughout the series, the musical score really draws you into the period and to the drama of this terrible conflict.This series is reminiscent of old-time radio shows and how they used sound effects.The narration and the voices representing different key players in the war is flawless.Very professionally done by Burns and crew to tell a powerful story using a full arsenal of facts and effects.

Episode 1: A House Divided and Sullivan Ballou's letter
This first episode in Ken Burns' celebrated Civil War documentary is unforgettable for the concluding section on "Honorable Manhood" which includes the letter written by Major Sullivan Ballou of the 2nd Rhode Island to his wife Sarah back home in Smithfield, a week before the first battle of Manassas.The letter is as emotionally powerful as it is poetic, and once you hear it you will not be surprised that it was included on the CD.Ballou's letter also hooks you on this documentary, if you have not already bought into it by that point.I have always believe that this letter is the reason "The Civil War" was the most successful series in PBS History, because this clip was what Ken Burns played on "The Tonight Show."I remember calling friends and family to tell them they HAD to watch this show to hear this letter. Ron Burns brings the soldiers to life.
This introduction to Ken Burn's epic Civil War series tells the poignant personnel stories we so often miss.This is a must see for all Americans. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. War Documentaries   

Features

• NTSC

Editorial Review

Produced as the title segment to a six-part series, this 90-minute documentary traces the evolution of jazz from its 19th-century origins in New Orleans's Congo Square, where slaves first introduced American listeners to the complex rhythms and earthy textures of African music.How that cultural diaspora combined with European and American folk, classical, and popular styles to become jazz, "America's classical music," is an oft-told tale, but it's handsomely served here by an intelligent script shaped by veteran jazz journalist Chris Albertson, and a well-chosen array of performances:Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Willie "the Lion" Smith, Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, Louis Armstrong, Jimmie Lunceford, Charles Mingus, Count Basie, Billie Holiday, Thelonious Monk, Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Sarah Vaughan, and Gil Evans all appear, representing as complete a pantheon of major innovators and influences as could be hoped for.Period footage, including both stills and rare film clips, and interviews with musicians and scholars round out a portrait equally appropriate for hard-core jazz fans and novice listeners looking for a point of entry. Read more

Features

• Color
• Compilation
• NTSC

Reviews (4)

The Story of Jazz
I teach a Music Appreciation course and this dvd was ideal for the introduction to jazz in this setting.I use more of the Ken Burns series in my American Popular Music course, but this dvd is an excellent overview. I ordered the dvd to have shown in class when I had to be away, and it was just right.If you are completely new to jazz, it's a good place to start.There is a good bit of attention given to bebop and basically ends there; I do wish that some had been given to jazz-rock and bossa nova. But in a dvd of this length, there is no way to cover everything. If you are fairly well versed in jazz already, you probably want something more comprehensive.

Great for survey-of-music courses
I use select bits of this video in both my Jazz History and Music Appreciation classes.Having real musicians talk about (and play!) the music really draws the students in, much more so than just talking about the players and seeing them in the book.The video is well-planned, well-directed and exceptionally well thought-out.

Fantastic Overview of Jazz
The best 90-minute look at jazz you can imagine. I used this in my music class and the kids were engaged all the way. Interviews are to the point and fun, clips are great. Hard to imagine a better succint treatment of the history of jazz. Highest recommendation! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Documentary    2. Jazz Collections    3. Movie    4. Music Video    5. Music Video - Jazz    6. Performance   

Features

• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (7)

Treatise on Black Gay Desire & Impressionistic Cinema
In mainstream gay cinema, the images of the black gay man is somewhat controversial and contrived.Often, he is portrayed as the overly effete stereotype.For the sake of the dollar and to appeal to cross-cultural fetishistic interest to reach a wider audience, he is often shown preferring and seeking out the attentions of white gay men.Writer-director Isaac Julien's LOOKING FOR LANGSTON represents a departure from the status quo of the image of black gay men while also attempting to reclaim the black gay identity and history that only now is beginning to be widely acknowledged by the general black community.
Haunting and equisite poetry in motion!
I first saw this film and have been entranced by it ever since- i can't explain it- it was like the first time I ever swam. The film is made so beautifully- it worships the contibution the poet Langston Hughes made on this earth- and also lends itself to celebrating the strength that other gay men- and, hell, anyone on the outer- should feel and be thankful for. Triumph of belief and passion over misguided energy and vanity. This film worships risk-takers, underdogs and worships the gentle strength in the human male (so rarely explored) and seems to celebrate our connection to nature in a very vividand timless way. As a confused aggressive gay man at 18 year old- i saw this film and felt like there was someone else on this earth who spoke my langauge and said- hey you! you're not alone- do what you want to do so passionately and be proud of what it is that you have to say, you have a right to be here. So feel free and be yourself- the world needs to hear what it is you feel. God bless the man that made this film- it tickles my soul. Thanks to my sweet Ma - thanks to her i am finally going to own this gem after 10 years of searching!!!!!

A brilliant counter-history
Julien seeks to mine the archive of the Harlem Renaissance for what has been lost or forgotten, namely the role of gay black men--writers, visual artists, and singers--in official history. More than this, however, this film moves backward and forward in time, an homage to black gay men today and the dangers they face and have faced in U.S. history.The final coup of the film is that it is not about Langston Hughes but rather uses Hughes as an icon for the ineffability of identity itself--was Hughes gay or straight?Julien refuses to answer the question, refuses spectacle and surveillance as means of "spotting" identity.Julien's filmic language is also beautiful and subversive and he alters written texts, such as Bruce Nugent's Smoke, Lilies, and Jade (Nugent is now known as the first "out" African American writer) to fit his own political project.I have written an article on this film, 35 pages, forthcoming from VU University Press, Amsterdam, 2002, copyrighted, and think most reviews of the film are idiotic or simply do not understand the beauty and complexity of this very alternative film. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Alternative Lifestyle    2. Documentary    3. Gay/Lesbian-Themed Film    4. Mature    5. Movie   

Features

• Black & White
• Closed-captioned
• Color
• NTSC

Subjects:  1. Documentary   

Editorial Review

The title says it all: Tupac Shakur was as much angel as outlaw. Unlike some of the other profiles made in the wake of his passing, Read more

Features

• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (39)

VERY INSIGHTFUL!!!!!
This DVD gave me more footage and knowledge of 2pac's life added to the many DVD's I saw and other CD's I heard.

2pac shakurs life as an outlaw
Now this box set will give you everything you will need to know about the legendary 2pac Shakur.It comes with 2 dvds witch the first one is called "life of an outlaw" witch chronicles Tupacs life witch has interviews with his stepfather and the people he has worked with in the music industry. This also comes with a book called "Holler If You Hear Me" written my Michael Dyson, he goes in the search for 2pac interviewing people he worked with. There is a soundtrack witch is mostly made up of the outlawz and his close friends. So if you want to learn more about Tupac Amaru Shakur then get this one, R.I.P Tupac Amaru Shakur.

Close to Number 1
Wow what can I say. . . This movie is like the best documentary besides resserection, because it explains so much, from what he says about the cops and his child hood. . And every peace of information helps you. . To get into tupacs mind and what he thought about the world,rap music exc. . .so if u like Tupac then get this movie because you will be very Happy :) ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Documentary    2. G-Funk    3. Gangsta Rap    4. Hardcore Rap    5. Pop    6. Rap & Hip-Hop    7. West Coast Rap   

Editorial Review

It's showtime! Read more

Features

• Color
• Original recording reissued
• NTSC

Reviews (8)

Jordan, the early years
If you have any doubt who the greatest basketball player of all time is, watch this video. This film was made nearly 15 years ago and it still wows me. I'm from Chicago so it is a Windy City bias. But it is true he is the best. Before the championships and him beating the Bad Boys, Jordan dazzled fans all over the nation with his 360 dunks, sick layups, incredible game winning shots and his winning attitude is what made up of Jordan before he won his six titles. This video also details his early life with his family, his daily battles on his families Basketball court with his older brother Larry. Him getting cut from his varsity high school team and his eventuall stardom at Laney high school. His successful run at North Carolina, with star teamates, James Worthy and Sam Perkins. Him winning the 1982 NCAA title against Patrick Ewing's Georgetown. Also relives his 1984 Olympic gold medal. Him being drafted third by the Bulls. Being passed over by the Portland TrailBlazers for.... Sam Bowie!!! The video also goes over Micheal's dramtic rise into stardom in 1984-85 where he won Rookie Of The Year. He then breaks his foot in early 1986 and he came all the way back, despite the Bulls front office telling him not to do it.He came back with fire, when in the 1986 playoffs, he scored 63 points against a team with four hall of famers, Bill Walton, Robert Parish, Kevin McHale, and of course, Larry Bird. This video is a gem to own, for any basketball fans, and MJ fans. Also, you can find this video on the Ultimate Jordan DVD collection, which I also own. You will love it.

A MUST HAVE FOR JORDAN FANS
One Word: Bestsportsvideoever. AIR JORDAN'S BEST VIDEO BY FAR!!
This is easily the best NBA video around.I wasn't sure at first but when I watched Jordan's gravity defying dunks and shots it blew me away!It has got more spectacular highlights than any other NBA video I have ever seen.It starts off with Jordans childhood on the baseball field,then his brilliant college days,then to the best stuff...his early days in the NBA where he earned lots of awards.Made before he stunned the world by leading the Bulls to a double three-peat,this tape captures the glory days of both slam-dunk contests,his injury and how he came by itto become the best player ever,all his dunks,lay-ups and game winners,his success in the olympics in L.A,and his own commentary on what it was like to be such a star performer.There is also some footage of his greatness at golf aswell.Only one dissapointment,not enough footage of his All-Star games.I ordered this over-seas because Britain dosent sell NBA videos.Also great service from Amazon.Buy this if you are an NBA fan and want to witness the greatest player ever...AIR JORDAN! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Basketball    2. Movie    3. Sports   

Editorial Review

One of the greatest and most memorable moments in the civil rightsmovement occurred when 200,000 people marched on Washington, D.C., on August 28, 1963. Not only was the gathering of so many united people extraordinary, but that day Martin Luther King Jr. stood before the marchers anddelivered his most eloquent and inspiring speech. This video offers the "I Have a Dream" speech in its entirety, as well as footage of the opposition the protesters faced, such as the fire hoses the police in Alabama used to disperse the crowds. The narrator explains that the hoses shot 700 pounds of pressure, enough to strip the bark off a tree. However, the grimness of this era is not the only focus in this video. Dr. King had so much hope and faith in thesuccess of the civil rights movement, and the greatest demonstration of this is in the famous speech. He uses modern metaphors and poetry to get his message out clearly, as when he describes the capitol as having given blacks a check marked "insufficient funds," but he reminds us that they will refuse to believe the bank of justice is bankrupt, that they will cash their check for riches of freedom and security of justice. Throughout the speech he emphasizes his mission: nonviolence as a method of overcoming ("Soul force against militant force") and the importance of walking together as a unified group, and never walking alone. Although the video ends with his death, it still leaves the viewer feeling uplifted with Robert Kennedy's memorial address, pleading with Americans to hold on to Dr. King's views and adopt them as their own. A concise video with one of the greatest speeches of our time. Read more

Features

• Black & White
• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (9)

Perfect
Essential for any thinking man over the age of 40 in the United States.

A Wonderful Presentation.
I found this presentation of King's speech to be excellently portrayed.After a brief introduction, about 5 minutes about the civil right's movement and circumstances leading up to the famous march on Washington, the speech is presented in its entirety.Some of the footage leading up to the speech is emotionally graphic - high pressure fire houses being used on peaceful demonstrators and footage from the aftermath of the Church bombing.
i to have a dream
They say we wouldn't we shouldn't and we couldn't make it.They say that we are the odds of the crowd.We to have dreams.Dreams of seeing the sky.We to have dreams so don't come with whys.We are to motivated to start dividacation between this nation.We ALL are created equal just like the God created us.We have to much knowledge to come apart. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Documentary    2. Movie    3. TV Shows   

Editorial Review

Decades ago, documentary filmmaker Leon Gast attempted to complete a feature about the 1974 "Rumble in the Jungle" championship bout between boxers Muhammad Ali and George Foreman in Kinshasa, Zaire. Sundry complications, though, held up the project until its release in 1996. It was well worth the delay. From Gast's perspective of modern history, the six weeks Ali and Foreman were forced to spend waiting in Africa for their fight to take place now looks like an important moment in America's cultural understanding of African American roots. In a nutshell, Ali had been stripped of his heavyweight champion title because his opposition to the Vietnam War-era draft had landed him in prison. Reigning champ Foreman agreed to a Don King-promoted match in Kinshasa, but after all parties got there the fight was put off. Gast captures the charismatic Ali, in the ensuing days and weeks, going out among the people and getting to know them while the more reclusive Foreman keeps to his own company. Meanwhile, King brings over black American artists such as James Brown and the Spinners to mix it up with African musicians. The sense of excitement and connection is thrilling, as is the boxing footage of Foreman and Ali finally taking swings at one another in a titanic duel. Writers George Plimpton and Norman Mailer, each of whom was covering the fight as journalists, are on hand to recollect the details. Whether you're a fight fan or not, this is a unique experience and a fascinating insight into America's sense of identity. Read more

Features

• Closed-captioned
• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (83)

A LITTLE LESS OF NORMAN MAILER AND MORE OF BB KING WOULD GO A LONG WAY
but the final shot of Mr. Ali standing and restraining himself from throwing one more punch, but letting George fall gracefully flat to the ground is ballet, is pure art, the crowning of his showmanship, after so many rounds of Mr. Ali receiving George's hardest body blows, tiring George out.
As If You Were At The Rumble
Filmmaker Leon Gast attempted to do the impossible in 1974; chronicle the build-up to the highly-anticipated "Rumble in the Jungle" heavyweight title clash in Kinshasa, Zaire, between champion George Foreman and Muhammad Ali, the fight itself and the aftermath.
Great Gift for Boxer Fans
I bought this DVD for my finacee for his birthday and he was excited.He said he has not seen this movie since it left theatres and after watching it, he said it was a classic that you can watch over and over again and he is so happy to have it in his collection. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Documentary    2. Movie   

Editorial Review

A century before Martin Luther King Jr. or Malcolm X, there was Frederick Douglass, arguably the most important and the earliest African American activist in United States history.This informative, inspiring documentary traces Douglass's heroic life and work.Born into slavery, Douglass was separated from his mother as a small child and forced into field labor on one of the largest plantations in the American South.There he witnessed such horrific brutality to his fellow slaves that by the age of 8 he wished that he had never been born.He was then sent to Baltimore to live as a house slave, an event he would later consider an act of divine providence.It was there that young Frederick learned to read and write, setting him on the path to become a powerful writer, orator, and agitator.Read more

Features

• Black & White
• Closed-captioned
• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (4)

A Fiery Orator Lights the Conscience of a Few
A compelling 90-minute PBS biography tracing Douglass' struggles, ideas, and influences. This sophisicated chronicle examines debates within the abolitionist movement, Douglass' complicated relationship to Lincoln and the Republican party, and Douglass' personal life. A fascinating look at the radical politics of 19th century when blacks were slaves, women couldn't own property or vote, and angry mobs attacked abolitionist speakers for arguing that "all men are created equal."

what an amazing life
Frederick Douglass surely led one of the most amazing lives in American history, and I think this video does him justice. I just showed it to my freshman American history class, and I was pleased by how many relevantissues it brought up,while still being entertaining, with good music,cinematography, etc. Charles Dutton did a good job reading Douglass'swords, also. I thought he was a suprising choice (physically they're sounalike), but one that paid off. I personally very much enjoyed thecommentary by leading historians like William McFeeley and Vincent Harding.Some viewers may be put off by their analysis, thinking that it breaks theflow of the narrative of his life (some of my students, for example), but Ithink the historians provided very valuable, thought-provoking comments.Everyone should know about Frederick Douglass, and this video would be afine introduction if you don't.

An incredible story about an awesome man
This documentary about Frederick Douglass moved me to tears in several places. The hardship and sadness and tragedy he witnessed and endured would have crushed the life out of most, be he rose above it time after time.Read more

Subjects:  1. Documentary    2. Movie    3. TV Shows   

Editorial Review

A vibrantly presented and emotionally charged portrait of the dynamic African leader, this needed tighter narration to close informational gaps. For instance, there is very little mention of F.W. de Klerk, although as the corecipient of the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize (along with Nelson Mandela), he most certainly figured greatly in the peaceful passing of the political baton. It may leave you with a few questions but otherwise captures Mandela's remarkable spirit. It follows him from his early days and tribal education through his work with the African National Congress to his election as Africa's first black president. Produced by Jonathan Demme, this wisely includes poetry of Africa, as much a part of Mandela's story as his own inner strength. Nominated for 1997 Academy Award for Best Documentary. Read more

Features

• Black & White
• Closed-captioned
• Color
• HiFi Sound
• NTSC

Reviews (2)

Disagree with the Editorial Review greatly on this point
Specifically, the narritive flow was good, and it gave persons a way to see the developement of Nelson Mandela and the freedom movement in South Africa.The statement that there was not alot about De Klerk, I also agree in substance and tone.De Klerk appeared commensurate to what Nelson Mandela had been saying all of his life, that he was always against racism, no pro one ethnic group or the other.This is something that De Klerk was not committed to from the beginning of his life apparently, and he, like Pharoah in Egypt, saw the writing on the wall with respect to the newness that was coming.Nonetheless, when Freedom finally came to South Africa, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who I know personnally, led all of us in a hand clap for Mr. De Klerk.This story, was about Nelson Mandela finally, not about Mr. De Klerk, and hence I didn't find the inclusion of De Klerk or the amount of time that he appeared, particularly out of balance with the main drive of the story.

Mandela: Son of Africa, Father of a Nation
Watched with my teenager and found this to be a very nice review of Nelson Mandela's life.Starts with how he was raised and educated to be the assistant to a village chief through his election as President of South Africa.The initial focus on how he was raised and interviews with his sister and others who know him gave good insight into his character that made him such a fighter for justice and great leader. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Documentary    2. Movie   

Editorial Review

The greatest basketball player of all time gets an appropriate clip reel in this 45-minute documentary, which was originally released in the IMAX format. While you can't simulate IMAX's 80-foot-high screen in your living room, you can still get the thrills and awe-inspiring footage of this tribute to one man's talent and endurance. Much of the original footage was shot during the 1997 NBA Finals between the Chicago Bulls and the Utah Jazz. With great behind-the-scenes footage and terrific game material, the film gets close to Jordan in practice and on the court. And the film includes a number of greatest hits, including his commercials and most memorable dunks. Still, while there are intriguing interviews with everyone from former Bulls coach Phil Jackson to professional Jordan hanger-on Bob Greene, this film seems a little self-serving at times (Jordan's company coproduced it). Also, some key voices from that team are conspicuously absent, including Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, and Ron Harper. In the end, however, it's all about the highlights--and Jordan's career (and his NBA finale) was one long one. Read more

Features

• Closed-captioned
• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (38)

Dissapoiting Don't Buy this
Many people brought this probably thought might has some great MJ play clip but that;s totally wrong u getting a few histoy of his carrerr but 90% is focus at the last game when he;s in bull, that's all, so not worthly unless u die hard MJ fan and ignore review from others ! There;s better one out there.

Powerful
Very informative about the MVP.Great inspiration to those who are getting into basketball.

Excelente
Tiene un excelente contenido, sobre todo las remembranzas sobre la vida profesional de MJ, recomendable. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Documentary    2. Movie    3. Sports    4. Sports Highlights   

Features

• Color

Editorial Review

You know how it goes. You hear about what a sensation someone likeJosephine Baker was in her prime (in her case, the 1920s and '30s), how she pushed boundaries in such delicate areas as race and sex, how she boththrilled and scandalized Paris with her exotic dancing and personalbehavior. You have all these loose strands of legend and random fact, yourcuriosity is running high, and then you hear that a feature film is being made about the very subject. You watch, andthen wonder: what was the big deal about Josephine Baker? The problem withthis 1991 TV movie is the same as with a number of HBO films from the 1980s and early '90s: it isn't particularly well written, the production looks rushed, and the entire point is obscured in a whirl of biographicalmaterial that doesn't sufficiently develop into insightful, organic unity. WhatRead more

Features

• Closed-captioned
• Color
• Dolby
• NTSC

Reviews (14)

A life worth remembering
Buoyed by a strong performance from Lynn Whitfield, this HBO film touches on the highlights of La Baker's career and life. Since I didn't know much about her life, most everything in the film was new to me. Even though it doesn't delve too deeply into any one area, we experience her childhood motivations, marriage tribulations, career successes and love of children. We also get some distinct impressions that she left the United States for France because the racism and oppression in the US were unbearable. Apparently being African-American qualified her to entertain folks, but not to enter by the same door or eat at the same tables as them. She married a Caucasian, "no `count Count" from Italy and adopted a "rainbow" of children from around the world. Throughout her life, she sought to break down racial barriers and fight racism in her own, not insignificant way. While she will be remembered as an exotic dancer, it is her struggle with racism on which this film justifiably focuses. HBO seems to have a knack for making above-average biopics that probably would not stand a chance in theaters. This stands alongside "Gia," "Norma Jean and Marilyn," and others as a well-made chronicle of a life well worth remembering.

Black is beautifull
African-americans have reason to be proud of the great entertainer, Josephine Baker, portrayed by the great actress, Lynn Whitfield. White Americans never foregave them: Josephine Baker who abandoned America and Lynn Whitfield who dared to show white Americans how and what they were and are.

Her struggle never ended
This movie is very well done, sumptuous, touching. It seems to follow the major facts of the riotous 50-year entertainer Miss Josephine Baker's life, as well as I know them. (I own the 2-disc CD "Josephine Baker" copyright 1991, songs recorded by her in Paris in the 1920s and 1930s, which has a wonderful and picture-filled booklet re the life & times of Ms. Baker.)
Read more

Subjects:  1. Drama    2. Movie    3. TV Shows   

Features

• Black & White
• Color
• HiFi Sound
• NTSC

Reviews (4)

Malcolm X is the Prophet and Minister of Life
This is an excellent video from Dan Rather who did this documentary on CBS. He has a lot of ideas on whom he wanna to tell to folks who knew him and remembered him. First you have Quincy Jones, Spike Lee, The late Betty Shabazz, Malcolm Jamal Warner, Public Enemy, Maya Angelou, everybody who's comin' down talkin' 'bout the man who did it all. He's the man who behind the speaker, the man behind the knowledge, the man behind the facts and the details of life. He's like our mentor to me, knahmsayin. This is sumthin I should picked up even tho I watched to this day. This is definitely recommended along with the book he put out w/ Alex Haley.

Standard TV Documentary
This is a well done, yet generic television documentary and good if you're interested in Malcolm X's public life. It seems their idea of an 'intimate portrait' was based more upon his life in the press and how others viewed him. At times it seems to border on the sensationalistic, but only goes so far (probably because of the Dan Rather element). There are some interesting interviews, but they never linger too long on the personal. More time is given to the conflict Malcolm X experienced with the Nation of Islam, how people reacted to or regarded him, the controversy surrounding him, and some questions are raised regarding the conspiracy of his assassination. It is interesting for historical and political purposes and the interviews with current Afro-American figures such as James Farmer, Maya Angelou, Public Enemy, Malcolm Jamal-Warner, and Wesley Snipes are insightful, but don't count on a truly 'intimate portrait'.

This is the CBS documentary
Dan Rather hosts a riveting and revealing odyssey that traces the life and times of the most charismatic and controversial leader of the Civil Rights Movement. Also includes interviews with many who knew him including his widow Betty Shabazz, Quincy Jones, Dick Gregory, Andrew Young, and contemporary artists like Public Enemy, who discuss his legacy. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Documentary    2. Movie   

Features

• Black & White
• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (3)

Great! But somewhat unfinished
In a prelude to the forthcoming bio-opic of his assasination film by oliver stone. This video features some great footage of Dr. King after his transformation in 1965 to the war on poverty, discrimination, and unequal distribution of wealth in this great country. Although I felt that it could of contained info and footage of James Earl Ray's confession and the Senate Commitee Hearings on his killing in 1977. But very good video

Great And Informative Piece. Very Important.
"The Assassination Of Martin Luthor King Jr." is a great documentary that presents the truth with enough evidence to back it up. The same guy who made this film also made the equally effective documentary:"The Assassination Of JFK." Both these pieces are filled withfilm, information, and intriguing narration that makes it's point clear.There is no doubt in my mind that King was killed by a conspiracy. And thatit was most likely J.Edgar Hoover. This film is effective, informative andimportant. I think it should be shown in schools all over America. This isa great film.

good
this is a very good video. i encourage each and every oneof you to veiw this video.what a mighty man king was. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Documentary    2. Movie    3. TV Shows   

Features

• Black & White
• Closed-captioned
• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (1)

The best television series ever made
Eyes on the Prize is certainly on of the best television programs ever made.It is absolutely riveting to watch - something really rare for documentaries.Read more

Subjects:  1. Documentary