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www.metro.us Weekend, July 11-14, 2013
FILMS
18
YORUBA RICHEN The filmmaker explores homophobia among African Americans in “The New Black.”
GIVING EACH SIDE THEIR TIME THE PHILADELPHIA CINEMA ALLIANCE
The documentary “The New Black,” from director Yoruba Richen, shows how the African-American community is divided when it comes to the issue of homosexuality in general and same-sex marriage in particular. Richen alternates between the opposing viewpoints, including straight LGBT ally Sharon Lettman-Hicks and antimarriage equality pastor Derek McCoy, letting each express his or her position as their state of Maryland votes on marriage equality. Richen will introduce “The
New Black,” which plays QFest on Saturday, July 13, at 4:45 p.m. at Ritz at the Bourse. A Q&A will follow the screening. Was there a particular interview or exchange that crystallized your need to make this film? Sharon’s family barbecue showed the gamut of feelings about this issue. It was funny, poignant and angry. Also, when I found Tonex, the [gay] Gospel singer, who crystallized what was happening in the black church. I felt they could
demonstrate what was going on here. What are the challenges of tackling such a divisive topic within the black community? Was there any backlash? I am pretty sheltered in terms of being an out
lesbian [in New York City]. I did have people say this is very controversial, and we as a community don’t talk about it. But I also think there was a hunger for it, especially because of the recent political events unfolding. You alternate between
Quoted
“It would be interesting to go back to these folks a year from now and see what the folks voting against it feel about it [then]. I think it’s too early to say.” Richen
pro and con positions, letting each side tell their story. What was your narrative strategy? As an African-American [filmmaker], we don’t often get the opportunity to tell our story in a complex way. That is part of my desire to tell stories — even things I don’t agree with, or are not my opinion. To understand the complexity gives it more nuance. It was important to have various viewpoints, while also being clear that I have a point of view. Did people’s minds
change about the topic while you were making the film, or is this going to always be an agree-todisagree issue? It would be interesting to go back to these folks a year from now and see what the folks voting against it feel about it [then]. I think it’s too early to say. Will people change? Or will their views die out, like racism?
GARY M. KRAMER
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