Black Church, Inc.

Black Church, Inc. is a thought-provoking documentary directed by Emeka Mbadiwe and released in 2014. The film features insightful commentary from a variety of individuals, including figures like John Blake, Anthony Pinn, and Taharka Robinson. They bring to the fore a critical examination of the commercialization that is alleged to have taken place in numerous black churches across the United States. This documentary invites the audience to consider the broader consequences of the evolving nature of religious institutions, specifically within the black community.

The title, Black Church, Inc., evokes the corporate, business-like aspect that the film explores, highlighting at the outset its focus on the controversial elements of monetary gain and wealth accumulation. The creators have highlighted an increasing dissonance within the wall of the church, where the focus seems to have shifted from salvation and community service towards profitability and personal prosperity of church leaders.

The documentary features John Blake, a renowned reporter and commentator who often engages with issues of race, religion, and politics, and who provides valuable insights. Anthony Pinn, who is a religious scholar, aids in contextualizing the historical and cultural evolution of black churches. Meanwhile, Taharka Robinson, a community activist, offers a grounded perspective on the implications of the church's changing role on the black community.

Black Church, Inc. critically examines the role of prosperity theology, whereby wealth and economic success are seen as blessings or gifts from God. It challenges how some black church leaders have evolved into affluent entrepreneurs, amassing wealth from congregational donations while preaching about prosperity.

Beyond questioning the integrity of the pastors who engage with this type of theology, the documentary also reviews the faith of the churchgoers who accept and are part of this system. The film discusses the level of trust people place in their spiritual leaders and how that trust can be sometimes manipulated for material gain. It also explores the potentially divisive role that religion can play in the wider black community, potentially reinforcing harmful hierarchies and inequalities.

The film uses various means to communicate its message, including interviews, archival footage, and scenes captured in churches and local community spaces. The visuals are paired with a compelling narrative structure that effectively paints the dichotomy of faith and finance within the church setting.

While the documentary does provide criticisms, it also highlights the important and beneficial roles that these churches still play in the black community, from facilitating social networks and providing spiritual guidance to functioning as spaces for African American cultural expression. This careful and nuanced approach to the topic prevents the documentary from veering into an outright condemnation of black churches, instead initiating a much-needed conversation.

Black Church, Inc.'s unique exploration into the intersectionality between faith, money, and exploitation makes it a must-watch for those interested in religious studies or socio-cultural documentaries. It questions not just what the church takes from the community, but also what it gives back, weaving a complex narrative that will compel the audience to reflect on the role of institutionalized religion in contemporary society.

In conclusion, Black Church, Inc. is a thoughtfully constructed documentary that delves into the transformation of the black church, holding a mirror to its commercialization while also recognizing the critical part it plays within the community. Through vibrant commentary from well-known figures and scholars, it invites viewers to understand and interrogate the evolving relationship between faith, wealth, and power.