BFI Tongues Untied
Description
After its 1989 release and subsequent screening on public television, Tongues Untied polarised critics with its unapologetic portrayal of black gay experience in America. Part documentary, part performance, it was described as the film we have been waiting for by critic Cary Alan Johnson and vilified as a misuse of public funds by right-wing presidential hopeful Pat Buchanan. Such divided opinions were testament to the films lasting impact as a powerful depiction of the ongoing black liberation movement, twinned with devastation of the AIDS crisis. 30 years on, the poetry of Marlon Riggs himself, as well as performances from Essex Hemphill and Brian Freeman, comprise a unique record of a critical historical moment with fierce intelligence, virtuosic rhythm and courageous hope that still stuns today. Special Features: Presentation in High Definition and Standard definition Anthem (1991, 9 mins): an experimental music video portraying a vibrant, exciting and defiant community of black gay men Affirmations (1990, 10 mins): featuring the poetry of Essex Hemphill, this is a beautiful short film exploring the dreams, desires and fantasies of black gay men Non, Je ne regrette rien (1992, 38 mins): a timely and illuminating documentary examining the impact of HIV and AIDS. There's fierce and fascinating insight at every turn, and a classic example of Rigg's formally distinctive style **FIRST PRESSING ONLY** Fully illustrated booklet with new writing on Tongues Untied and the accompanying short films and full film credits Other extras TBC
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