500 Years Later

500 Years Later, released in 2005, is a masterfully created documentary featuring the collective stories of past and present African diaspora individuals told from the perspective of major historical events—all framed around the historical event of trans-Atlantic slavery that transpired roughly five centuries prior. You will experience an unprecedented range of mixed emotions watching the documentary, for it brings to the fore a long-neglected perspective of what it is to be an African in a global context.

The documentary stars Kolfi Adu, Sona Jobarteh, and Hunter Adams III. Kolfi Adu, famous for his adept storytelling talent, brings his uniquely African perspective into the documentary. Sona Jobarteh, the renowned Gambian musician and Griot, adds a rich cultural depth with her mesmerizing music and storytelling technique. Hunter Adams III, an influential African-American scholar, brings a wealth of knowledge about African history, enhancing viewers’ understanding of the complex and nuanced African diasporic experiences.

The title of the documentary, 500 Years Later, sparks curiosity. The '500 years later' prominently refers to the trans-Atlantic slave trade. The film revolves around the narratives of people of African descent and their collective memory and experiences of slavery. It explores historical beginnings in Africa, the forced migration, its subsequent effects, and the present day by delving into the feelings, thoughts, and experiences of African descendants worldwide.

This feature-length documentary takes audiences on a nostalgia-tinged journey with an unflinching approach to the harsh realities faced, yet also highlighting the great resilience of people of African descent. It explores the historical and modern-day social structures and institutions that have continued, up to this day, to negatively impact these individuals and communities, and the manner in which these forces have shaped their life experiences.

The film does not shy away from showing the stark realities that people of African descent went through as a result of slavery. Yet, it empowers the viewer with the knowledge of how these communities have survived, evolved, and henceforth thrived despite the intense suffering they experienced. The film continually prompts the audience to question stereotypes and prejudices while emphasizing the important role of collective memory and the sharing of oral histories in strengthening cultural identity and creating a sense of belonging among African diaspora individuals.

The documentary is a deep-dive into the vivid and rich African history before the trans-Atlantic slave trade, discussing the science, arts, and culture of a whole civilization that was disrupted by colonization. It seeks to dissect the painful history of Africans' forcible removal from their land and the dehumanizing journey they endured across the Atlantic. To do this, the documentary travels physically and metaphorically across continents, time zones, and ideologies.

The film also explores the emancipation movements, spirited resistance, and tremendous resilience shown by these communities despite the harrowing circumstances they found themselves in. It discusses the various ways through which people of African descent worldwide have used to connect with their roots. It reiterates the importance of acknowledging and attentively listening to these stories in the broader global narratives of history and sociopolitics.

500 Years Later is laden with powerful visuals, stirring music, and compelling narratives. It is an amalgamation of voices and experiences of people of African descent from across the world. From scholars speaking about African history to diaspora individuals sharing intimate stories about their personal journey with identity, it encompasses an array of experiences that present a comprehensive picture of historical and present-day Africana.

Directed by Owen 'Alik Shahadah, the documentary masterfully trims the line between a haunting portrayal of slavery and a narrative of harmony, resilience, strength, and survival of African descent. It is, without a doubt, an essential watch for global audiences to witness an often neglected, yet integral, part of world history. It not only educates you about the trials and tribulations faced by these individuals but also illuminates the richness and resonance of the African diasporic experience.

In sum, 500 Years Later serves as a landmark film for those interested in comprehending the comprehensive narrative of the African diaspora. It gives you a well-researched, multi-dimensional viewpoint of African history and the African journey. It is a poignant, enlightening, and empowering documentary that every viewer should experience, one that reshapes perspectives and instills deep respect for the African diaspora.