Blacks in American Films and Television: An Encyclopedia

Most moviegoers and television-watchers are familiar with the cinematic accomplishments of Sidney Poitier, Cicely Tyson, James Earl Jones and other African-American icons. But how many recognize the names Oscar Micheaux, Fredi Washington, Spencer Williams or Nina Mae McKinney? How many know that in 1929 MGM released the first all African-American "talking" picture: "Hallelujah"? Or that "Beulah" (and not "Julia") was the first television sitcom (1950 thru 1953) to star a black woman: Louise Beavers? Or who was the first African-American to portrayed "God" in a motion picture? All of these facts and much, much more are revealed in this magnificent work. Bogle's critiquing of the movies, television shows, actors and their performances is balanced and insightful. His analysis skillfully takes into consideration the racist nature of the motion picture business throughout the early years of America cinema, never sugarcoating or condemning the industry. His assessments are intelligently delivered and masterfully compliment the commentary and photographs throughout. Published in 1988, this book is a bit dated. However, the historical value of its contents is invaluable. There are numerous photos and profiles of long-ago African-American movie stars, including Lena Horne, Eddie "Rochester" Anderson, Dorothy Dandridge, Ethel Waters, Paul Robeson, Hattie McDaniel and Billie "Buckwheat" Thomas, as well as lesser-known artists such as Rex Ingram, Tim Moore, Lillian and Amanda Randolph and Mantan Moreland. Bogle also critiques numerous television shows that featured or starred African-American performers, including "Benson", "Amos `n' Andy", "Room 222", "The Cosby Show", "I Spy", "Julia", "Amen" and even the short-lived, "Get Christie Love". Fortunately, Bogle does not exclude more contemporary (remember, this book was written in 1988) African-American performers. Eddie Murphy, Richard Roundtree, Alfre Woodard, Diana Ross, Melvin Van Peebles and others are also profiled. This is a very enjoyable, easy to read text. A complimentary addition to any library. Oh, and by the way...the first African-American to portray "God" in a motion picture was Rex Ingram in the 1936 classic: "Green Pastures".

Donald Bogle does an excellent job listing every movie and television program that featured Black people in a prominent role. I read the book like a novel. This book is a fabulous research tool. A must have!!!!