Who We Are: A Chronicle of Racism in America
Who We Are: A Chronicle of Racism in America

Movie spotlight

Who We Are: A Chronicle of Racism in America

2022
Movie
117 min
English

Jeffery Robinson's talk on the history of U.S. anti-Black racism, with archival footage and interviews.

Insights

IMDb7.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes99%
Metacritic83/100
Google Users96%
Director: Jeff ZimbalistGenres: Documentary, History, Social Issues

Plot Summary

This documentary unpacks the centuries-long history of racist ideas and practices in the United States, tracing their origins and impact on contemporary society. Through archival footage, interviews with scholars, activists, and descendants of enslaved people, it reveals how these deeply ingrained systems continue to shape American life and institutions. The film aims to foster a deeper understanding of the persistent legacy of slavery and its ongoing consequences for racial inequality.

Critical Reception

Who We Are: A Chronicle of Racism in America was widely praised by critics for its unflinching examination of systemic racism and its historical roots. Reviewers commended its powerful storytelling, informative content, and the way it connects historical injustices to present-day issues. The documentary was seen as an essential and timely piece for understanding the complexities of race in America.

What Reviewers Say

  • A deeply impactful and essential documentary that provides a crucial historical context for understanding racism in America.

  • Praised for its rigorous research, compelling narrative, and the powerful testimonies of its interviewees.

  • Hailed as a timely and necessary film that challenges viewers to confront the ongoing legacy of systemic racism.

Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly praised the documentary for its educational value, historical accuracy, and its ability to provoke thought and discussion about racism. Many found it to be an eye-opening and important film that effectively connects historical events to current societal issues.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The documentary features interviews with descendants of enslaved people whose families have documented their experiences for generations, providing a powerful and personal connection to the history being explored.

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