They've Gotta Have Us

They've Gotta Have Us is a captivating and thought-provoking three-part docuseries, which aired on BBC Two in 2018. The series delves into the evolution, triumphs, and struggles of Black actors and filmmakers in the movie industry.

Directed and produced by eminent photographer Simon Frederick, the series is a unique and intimate journey into the world of cinema seen and lived through the lenses of Black talents. It brings to light the enormous influence and contributions these creative individuals have made to the film industry, pushing the envelope of creativity and breaking down cultural barriers that have existed for way too long.

They've Gotta Have Us orchestrates a compelling narrative by combining a series of interviews and archival footages. The series bristles with candid, heart-felt insights from acclaimed Black actors, actresses, and filmmakers from both sides of the Atlantic, including Whoopi Goldberg, David Oyelowo, Diahann Carroll, John Boyega, Harry Belafonte, Barry Jenkins, and many more. They share their personal experiences, recounting their journey through an industry that was not always welcoming or fair.

The series is chronologically structured, facilitating a historical journey through decades of Black cinema. It starts with Hollywood's silent film era and covers iconic milestones, such as the blaxploitation era, and culminates in the recent years with 'Black Hollywood' renaissance movies like Black Panther, Get Out, and Moonlight.

In the first episode, They've Gotta Have Us lays the groundwork tracing the path of early Black cinema, where Black artists were typecast into degrading and stereotypical roles. It tells the story of actors like Hattie McDaniel, who despite winning an Academy Award still had to enter through the back door of the ceremony venue.

The next part explores how Black artists defied stereotypes and began using film as a socio-political platform, as seen in the blaxploitation era. This revolutionary phase saw Blacks taking control of their narratives, creating and starring in movies that portrayed them as heroes and protagonists, strongly countering the subservient roles they were previously relegated to.

The final part includes more contemporary perspectives, incorporating the seismic shift brought forth by the success of films like 12 Years a Slave, Moonlight, and Black Panther. It showcases the film industry's drastic evolution towards diversity and representation, embodified through blockbuster movies and awards recognition. It portrays how Black artists today are not only fighting for representation but also for nuanced storytelling granted to their white counterparts.

They've Gotta Have Us is not just a historical account of Black representation in Hollywood, but it also probes into the underlying racial and systemic issues plaguing the film industry. It brings forth the uncomfortable discussion on the sustained lack of racial parity and how it extends to issues, including wage gaps, glass ceilings, and inadequate representation. Interviews convey the stark reality of diversity and inclusion struggles with personal stories of microaggressions, systemic bias, and the feeling of being 'the only one' in the room.

But the series does not merely focus on the struggles; it also celebrates the victories. It highlights cultural moments where Black actors and filmmakers 'made it' despite the odds, breaking boundaries and inspiring generations. It pays homage to trailblazers who paved the way, acknowledging their endurance and resilience in light of adversity.

They've Gotta Have Us is a celebration and critique rolled into one, a vital exploration of Black cinematic history, an ode to Black creativity, resistance, and the journey towards equal representation. It is both an entertaining watch, offering a peek into the star-studded world of cinema, and an educative experience, throwing light on the once unspoken issues and praising the pioneers who dared to break the norms.

All in all, They've Gotta Have Us is more than a documentary; it is a captivating story of struggle, passion, determination, activism, and victory that rings with authenticity. The series attests to the fact that representation matters, diversity enriches the cinematic experience, and the lens of Black artists is integral to the world of cinema.