Netflix has released the trailer for “Stamped From the Beginning,” a hybrid documentary and scripted feature that delves into race in the United States.
Roger Ross Williams (“The Apollo Life”) directs Ibram X. Kendi’s book adaptation of the same name.
With Black women scholars such as Angela Davis, Dr. Imani Perry and activist Brittany Packnett Cunningham as the main storytellers, the documentary examines the creation and perpetuation of anti-Black racism and white supremacy in America. From slavery to police brutality, Williams examines the dehumanizing historical myths that have degraded Black people. He also calls out white supremacy and the myths started by white people and how mass media as well as political strategy have long painted Black people as dangerous.
“I read Dr. Kendi’s book and it transformed me in many ways, it made me confront how I see myself as a Black man and I immediately knew I had to go on this journey of a personal and collective dispelling of racist ideas about Black people. Dr. Kendi is probably one of the most banned authors in America— which I believe is a badge of honor— and it is my personal honor to have created this necessary film using all the tools in my toolbox; VFX, animation, archive, graphics and kick-ass Black women experts,” Williams said in a statement.
Williams combines voiceover, talking heads, animation and title cards to thread his story. Kendi appears throughout to deconstruct the myths as the women-centered at the core of the documentary seek to answer the question, “What is wrong with Black people?
The documentary is adapted from Kendi’s 2016 book. The book has appeared on numerous banned books lists.
‘Stamped From the Beginning’ streams on Netflix on Nov. 20
Watch the trailer below