Discover
The first documentary to explore the role of photography in shaping the identity, aspirations and social emergence of African Americans from slavery to the present, Through a Lens Darkly probes the recesses of American history by discovering images that have been suppressed, forgotten and lost.
Bringing to light the hidden and unknown photos shot by both professional and vernacular African American photographers, the film opens a window into lives, experiences and perspectives of black families that is absent from the traditional historical canon. These images show a much more complex and nuanced view of American culture and society and its founding ideals.
Inspired by Deborah Willis's book Reflections in Black and featuring the works of Carrie Mae Weems, Lorna Simpson, Anthony Barboza, Hank Willis Thomas, Coco Fusco, Clarissa Sligh and many others, Through a Lens Darkly introduces the viewer to a diverse yet focused community of storytellers who transform singular experiences into a communal journey of discovery – and a call to action.
Original Release
01/18/2014
US Release
01/18/2014
Links
Cast
Name | Character |
---|
Arthé Anthony | Self |
Anthony Barboza | Self |
Hugh Bell | Self |
David G. Berger | Self |
Dawoud Bey | Self |
Sheila Pree Bright | Self |
Marcus Bruce | Self |
Michael Chambers | Self |
Albert Chong | Self |
Lisa Gail Collins | Self |
Directors
Writers
Thomas Allen Harris, Deborah Willis, Paul Carter Harrison, Don Perry
Cast
Name | Character |
---|
Arthé Anthony | Self |
Anthony Barboza | Self |
Hugh Bell | Self |
David G. Berger | Self |
Dawoud Bey | Self |
Sheila Pree Bright | Self |
Marcus Bruce | Self |
Michael Chambers | Self |
Albert Chong | Self |
Lisa Gail Collins | Self |
Bridget Cooks | Self |
Adger W. Cowans | Self |
Renee Cox | Self |
C. Daniel Dawson | Self |
Roy DeCarava | Self |
Jonathan Eubanks | Self |
Delphine Fawundu-Buford | Self |
Cheryl Finley | Self |
Lola Flash | Self |
Jack T. Franklin | Self |
Producers
Name | Role |
---|
John Singleton | Executive Producer |
Kimberly Steward | Executive Producer |
Thomas Allen Harris | Producer |
Deborah Willis | Producer |
Lauren Beck | Producer |
Ann Bennett | Producer |
Alison Duke | Producer |
Sabrina Hawkins | Producer |
Sheila Maniar | Producer |
Don Perry | Producer |
Gregory Warren Jr. | Producer |