TOUGH LOVE
short film program
A select array of films on how Black parenthood, and Black fatherhood particularly, has been highly challenged in this society. These films examine that with varied looks at Black parenthood and the results of good and questionable choices made within.
DEAR FATHER
directed by Richard Loussaint; produced by DJ Hard Hittin Harry & DJ Super JB
After popular DJ Hard Hittin Harry’s father Joseph D. D'Janite AKA "PAPIDO" passed away this past April, he was compelled to analyze their relationship, and a short film discussion on fatherhood emerged. This very personal film features commentary from actor Malik Yoba (New York Undercover, Empire), Brooklyn Council Member Robert E. Cornegy Jr., author/scientist Tamykah Anthony-Marston, Harry himself and co-producer DJ Super JB, as well as various perspectives from Harry's children.
MACHO
directed by Faren Humes
The murder of a local transgender woman causes a rift within the small, rural town of Sanderson, Florida, and tests the tenuous bond of a conservative uncle and his effeminate nephew.
SHOOT DON'T SHOOT
directed by Charbrielle Parker
A biracial college freshman, whose father is a white detective for the NYPD, mother is a college professor at NYU and new boyfriend is a basketball star seems to be living an idyllic life. But her life begins to take a whole new shape when she realizes some people just see the world as black or white.
POPS (3 episodes)
directed by Garland McLaurin
This documentary web series addresses the reality and challenges of 21st-century parenthood for African American fathers, debunking the media narrative of the deadbeat black father generally accepted as a fact of life for African American children.
POPS is presented by Black Public Media and Indie Lens Storycast in association with PBS Digital Studios and the National Endowment for the Arts
SILENT CRIES (The Prelude)
directed by Shauntay Cherry
producer Okema Moore
The story of a construction worker with a failing business who begins to buckle under the pressure of fatherhood as his son’s 7th birthday approaches.
post-screening Q&A with DJ Hard Hittin Harry, Richard Loussaint, Charbrielle Parker, Shauntay Cherry, and special guests (TBA)