Black & Privileged: Volume 1

Black & Privileged: Volume 1 is a 2019 drama film that explores the lives of young, affluent African-American college students and the challenges they face in balancing their privileged lives with their desire to stay connected to their communities.

The film centers around the character of Sydnee, played by Anah Ambuchi, who is a sophomore at a prestigious university. Sydnee is a talented writer who is struggling to find her voice and identity as a young black woman in a world dominated by white privilege. She grapples with the notion of assimilating into the dominant culture or embracing her heritage and facing the consequences of being labeled as an outsider.

The film tackles various themes such as prejudice, class dynamics, cultural identity, and the Black Lives Matter movement. It portrays the hypocrisy and duality that exists within the African-American community. The film not only highlights the challenges of being black in a predominantly white higher education system but also the challenges of being a part of the black community when one is considered privileged.

Malcolm Banks plays Sean, a fellow student who is Sydnee's love interest. Sean is an activist who is passionate about the Black Lives Matter movement, and he challenges Sydnee to join him in his activism. Sarah Cigan plays Sara, Sean's Asian American girlfriend, who is an ally in their cause.

The supporting cast is made up of other students who are navigating various issues themselves. They include Taylor, who is struggling to maintain her scholarship as a student-athlete, and her boyfriend, Troy, who is caught up in the drug trade. Rashad, who is also an activist, is working with Sean and Sydnee, but he has his own agenda, and his loyalty is questionable.

Black & Privileged: Volume 1 is a thought-provoking film that challenges the viewers to examine their own biases and beliefs. The film promotes the idea of allyship and the importance of coming together to fight injustice.

The cinematography and soundtrack are impressive, and they add to the overall ambiance of the film. The soundtrack features a combination of hip-hop and soul music, which complements the tone of the film.

Although the film has some shortcomings, such as its pacing and character development, it is a sincere attempt to shed light on an important topic that is often overlooked. It resonates with audiences who have experienced similar issues and will undoubtedly spark discussions about privilege and prejudice.

In conclusion, Black & Privileged: Volume 1 is a film that captures the struggles of black college students, who are trying to find their place in a world that continues to marginalize them. It is a film that promotes empathy and understanding, and it reminds us that we have a responsibility to stand up for what is right, even when it is challenging.