bell hooks’ Legacy

Bell Hook’s Legacy: Black Feminine Narratives by Black Female Directors is a journey into the Insightful narrative universe that bell hooks meticulously crafted throughout her life.

Born Gloria Jean Watkins but known by her pen name bell hooks (intentionally stylized in lowercase to shift focus from her identity to her ideas), she was a trailblazing scholar, an incisive cultural critic, and an unapologetic feminist. Her extensive body of work delves into the interwoven fabric of race, capitalism, and gender, revealing the underlying forces that shape society and individual experiences. hooks’ writing was not just descriptive but deeply transformative, aimed at inciting change and fostering a collective awakening about the oppressive structures that govern our world.

bell hooks’ literature serves as a cornerstone for critical thought and social activism. Her works are a testament to her profound intellect and her unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Among her most influential books are:

1. Ain’t I a Woman: Black Women and Feminism (1981)
   This book is a foundational text in the intersection of race, gender, and class struggles, named after a speech by Sojourner Truth. hooks critically analyses the historical and contemporary marginalisation of Black women within the wider feminist movement and civil rights movement. She interrogates the exclusion of Black women from the narrative of gender equality, highlighting the unique challenges they face due to the overlapping oppressions of sexism and racism. The book calls for a more inclusive feminism that addresses the specific needs and experiences of Black women, advocating for an understanding of feminism that encompasses the fight against all forms of oppression.
2. Killing Rage: Ending Racism (1995)
   In this collection of essays, hooks addresses the deep-rooted issue of racism in American society and its pervasive impact on everyday life. She discusses the concept of “killing rage,” a transformative response to systemic racism that can fuel the fight for justice. The book explores the complexities of anger, arguing that it is a necessary and justified response to oppression, but also one that must be channelled constructively. hooks examines the role of the media, the education system, and other societal structures in perpetuating racism, calling for a collective effort to confront and dismantle these systems.
3. All About Love: New Visions (2000)
   hooks proposes a revolutionary approach to love as the foundation for personal and societal transformation. She critiques the conventional understanding of love as merely romantic or familial, arguing instead for a broader, more inclusive concept of love that can heal the wounds of individual and collective trauma. The book discusses the importance of self-love, compassion, and the willingness to engage in critical self-reflection as prerequisites for offering love to others. hooks envisions a society where love is seen as an ethic and a basis for social justice, challenging readers to reconsider the role of love in their lives and communities.
4. Teaching to Transgress: Education as the Practice of Freedom (1994)
   This work is a critical reflection on education as a means of liberation. hooks draws on her own experiences as a student and teacher to critique the traditional banking model of education, where students are passive recipients of knowledge. Instead, she advocates for a pedagogy that is participatory, inclusive, and empowering. The book emphasises the importance of critical thinking and the need for education to foster independent thought and a questioning of the status quo. hooks sees the classroom as a space where transformative learning can occur, challenging both teachers and students to engage with education as a practice of freedom.
5. Feminist Theory: From Margin to Center (1984)
   In this seminal text, hooks critiques the mainstream feminist movement for its focus on the experiences and issues of white, middle-class women, to the exclusion of women of colour and women from different class backgrounds. She argues for a redefinition of feminism, one that is more inclusive and attentive to the diverse experiences of all women. The book calls for an examination of feminism’s goals and strategies, urging feminists to consider how issues of race, class, and sexuality intersect with gender. hooks promotes a vision of feminism that is not only about achieving equality with men but also about transforming society to eradicate all forms of oppression.

These works, among many others, form the bedrock of bell hooks’ enduring legacy, offering profound insights and challenging readers to question, reflect, and act. Her writings are not just texts but catalysts for change, urging us to envision and work towards a world grounded in equality, love, and justice.

As we explore the films in this watchlist, let us carry with us the wisdom and vision of bell hooks, allowing her words to guide our understanding and shape our perspectives.

1. Daughters of the Dust (1991)

Directed by Julie Dash

Directed by Julie Dash, Daughters of the Dust offers a visually arresting narrative set at the dawn of the 20th century, chronicling the lives of three generations of Gullah women on Saint Helena Island. The film centres around the matriarch Nana Peazant, portrayed by Cora Lee Day, weaving the experiences of characters such as Eula Peazant (Alva Rogers), who is contending with the aftermath of rape, and Yellow Mary (Barbara-O), who returns home with her companion, Trula.

Through its non-linear storytelling and exquisite cinematography, the film immerses the viewer in the profound cultural and familial connections, exploring themes of heritage, transition, and continuity, echoing hooks’ perspectives on the complexity and resilience of Black female identity.

2. Eve’s Bayou (1997)

Directed by Kasi Lemmons

Eve’s Bayou unfolds a captivating narrative set in Louisiana, centring on a young girl, Eve Batiste, played by Jurnee Smollett, and her Creole family. The film delves into the intricacies of memory, mysticism, and family dynamics, painting an atmospheric depiction of the Louisiana setting.

With a complex web of family secrets, it crafts a compelling tale on the power of memory and the nuances of growing up, deeply resonating with hooks’ emphasis on narrative agency and the significance of storytelling in understanding and moulding one’s identity.

3. Miss Juneteenth (2020)

Directed by Channing Godfrey Peoples

Miss Juneteenth follows Turquoise Jones (Nicole Beharie), a former beauty queen turned single mother in Fort Worth, Texas, as she encourages her daughter, Kai (Alexis Chikaeze), to win the Miss Juneteenth pageant and claim the life she herself could not achieve. The film explores their mother-daughter relationship, dreams, and the pursuit of independence against the backdrop of a significant historical celebration.

With intimate cinematography that captures the essence of the African-American community, Miss Juneteenth aligns with bell hooks’ philosophy on the transformative power of media. The film emphasizes the beauty in everyday life, the strength of community, and the resilience of Black women, mirroring hooks’ advocacy for self-definition and the reclamation of Black female identity. Through Turquoise and Kai’s story, the film celebrates Black heritage while critiquing societal norms, embodying hooks’ critique of oppression and her vision for empowerment.

4. Pariah (2011)

Directed by Dee Rees

Pariah is a poignant narrative following Alike, a 17-year-old African American woman, portrayed by Adepero Oduye, as she navigates her identity as a lesbian amidst the challenges of family acceptance and self-expression.

The film’s intimate cinematography and nuanced storytelling offer a window into Alike’s inner turmoil and resilience, mirroring hooks’ focus on self-recovery, the assertion of the Black female identity, and the courage to live one’s truth in the face of societal norms.

5. Middle of Nowhere (2012)

Directed by Ava DuVernay

Middle of Nowhere chronicles the odyssey of Ruby, portrayed by Emayatzy Corinealdi, who pauses her medical school ambitions to support her husband’s incarceration. Delving into Ruby’s emotional terrain, the narrative traverses themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and self-discovery with profound sensitivity.

The film’s understated storytelling and emphasis on character development echo bell hooks’ critique of societal norms and underscore the transformative potential of self-definition and resilience amidst adversity. Through Ruby’s journey, Middle of Nowhere offers a nuanced exploration of the complexities of love, identity, and personal agency, inviting viewers to contemplate the intersections of race, gender, and incarceration in shaping individual experiences. This cinematic masterpiece serves as a reminder of the strength and dignity inherent in the pursuit of self-realisation and the navigation of life’s unforeseen challenges.

6. The 40-Year-Old Version (2020)

Directed by Radha Blank

The 40-Year-Old Version (2020), written and directed by Radha Blank, who also stars as the protagonist, is a sharply comedic yet deeply introspective look at the life of a struggling New York playwright on the cusp of turning 40. Radha, portrayed by Blank herself, is determined to reinvent her voice and career through the unexpected medium of rap, navigating the complexities of mid-life crisis, artistic authenticity, and societal expectations in the process. The film’s candid narrative and documentary-style cinematography offer a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the challenges of preserving one’s identity and passion within the constraints of an industry and society that often overlooks and undervalues Black creativity and womanhood.

This film stands as a testament to the themes bell hooks frequently explored: the intersectionality of race, gender, and the relentless pursuit of self-definition and autonomy. The 40-Year-Old Version resonates with hooks’ emphasis on the importance of self-recovery and the courage to present one’s truth against the backdrop of a world that may not be ready to listen. Through its blend of humour and poignant moments, the film captures the essence of what it means to find one’s voice amidst the noise of expectations, making it a compelling narrative of empowerment and self-discovery that echoes hooks’ vision for the liberation of the Black female voice.

7. I Will Follow (2010)

Directed by Ava DuVernay

I Will Follow offers a touching exploration of grief and memory through the eyes of Maye, played with depth by Salli Richardson-Whitfield, as she navigates the emotional task of sorting through her deceased aunt’s possessions. The film’s reflective tempo and close-up cinematography deeply explore the nuances of human emotion, resonating with bell hooks’ observations on the power of vulnerability and the significant journey towards personal growth and healing.

This narrative beautifully captures the solitary moments of Maye’s introspection, providing a space where we can engage with the themes of loss, remembrance, and ultimately, the resilience required to move forward. I Will Follow aligns with hooks’ philosophy by portraying the transformative potential of embracing one’s vulnerabilities, underscoring the film’s commitment to an authentic representation of the healing process and the complex, often painful, path to self-discovery.

8. Harriet (2019)

Directed by Kasi Lemmons

Harriet is a biographical film that chronicles the remarkable life of Harriet Tubman, portrayed by Cynthia Erivo, from her daring escape from slavery to her heroic endeavours leading others to freedom via the Underground Railroad. The film’s dynamic storytelling and compelling performances offer an immersive look into Tubman’s unyielding resilience and courage. This portrayal deeply resonates with bell hooks’ focus on the themes of resistance, personal agency, and the profound impact an individual can have on catalyzing collective transformation.

Harriet not only celebrates Tubman’s monumental legacy but also embodies hooks’ insights into the power of storytelling in highlighting the struggles and triumphs of those who fought against the oppressive forces of their time. Through its vivid depiction of Tubman’s journey, the film reflects hooks’ advocacy for recognizing and honouring the role of Black women as central figures in the history of resistance and liberation, showcasing the indomitable spirit of Tubman as a beacon of change and empowerment.

9. Selma (2014)

Directed by Ava DuVernay

Selma is a powerful portrayal of the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches, highlighting the leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., played by David Oyelowo, and the vital contributions of women like Annie Lee Cooper, portrayed by Oprah Winfrey, and Diane Nash, played by Tessa Thompson.

The film’s compelling visual storytelling and strong character arcs reflect the collective struggle and resilience, resonating deeply with hooks’ vision of shared narratives and solidarity in resistance.

10. Belle (2013)

Directed by Amma Asante

Inspired by the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, portrayed by Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Belle is a profound exploration of race, gender, and class in 18th-century British society. The film delves into the life of Belle, a mixed-race woman who lives among the British aristocracy but faces the societal constraints of her heritage. Through Belle’s journey, the film critiques historical marginalisation and systemic oppression, echoing bell hooks’ critique of social structures that perpetuate inequality.

Adding to this narrative, Belle also highlights the transformative power of self-awareness and advocacy. The character of Belle, in navigating her complex world, becomes a symbol of resilience and change. The film’s rich visual style and period detail further accentuate the contrasts between privilege and prejudice, underscoring the ongoing relevance of hooks’ insights into the interplay between race, gender, and class. As Belle challenges the injustices of her time, her story resonates with hooks’ call for a society that acknowledges and addresses its deeply ingrained inequalities.

11. The Watermelon Woman (1996)

Directed by Cheryl Dunye

Directed by Cheryl Dunye, who also stars as Cheryl, this groundbreaking film blends documentary and narrative to explore the intersection of race, sexuality, and history. Cheryl, a young Black lesbian, decides to make a documentary about a Black actress known only as The Watermelon Woman.

The film’s unique approach to storytelling and its critique of representation in media resonate with hooks’ philosophy, highlighting the importance of reclaiming narratives and challenging the status quo in film and media.

12. Love & Basketball (2000)

Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood

Love & Basketball (2000) is an acute narrative that delves into the lives of Monica Wright and Quincy McCall, portrayed by Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps, respectively. These two characters, both aspiring basketball players from childhood through adulthood, navigate the intertwined paths of their ambitions, dreams, and evolving relationships. Monica, in particular, faces the dual challenges of excelling in a male-dominated sport while managing societal expectations of femininity and personal relationships. Her journey is a vivid exploration of the hurdles faced by women in sports, where ambition and talent often clash with the traditional roles assigned to them.

This film narrates the story of Monica Wright and Quincy McCall, played by Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps respectively, two aspiring basketball players navigating their dreams, ambitions, and relationships. Monica’s challenges and triumphs in a male-dominated sport reflect hooks’ themes of resistance, ambition, and self-actualisation, illustrating the complex dynamics of pursuing one’s passion against societal expectations.

13. Clemency (2019)

Directed by Chinonye Chukwu

Clemency delves into the life of prison warden Bernadine Williams, exploring the psychological and emotional toll of her profession, with Alfre Woodard delivering a powerful performance as Bernadine.

The film’s intense focus on Bernadine’s inner turmoil and moral conflicts offers a profound exploration of empathy, connection, and the systemic structures of injustice, resonating with hooks’ critique of oppressive systems and the importance of humanizing narratives.

14. A Wrinkle in Time (2018)

Directed by Ava DuVernay

A Wrinkle in Time transforms Madeleine L’Engle’s classic tale into a visually stunning fantasy adventure that centres on young Meg Murry, portrayed by Storm Reid. As Meg embarks on an interstellar journey to find her missing father, she is guided by three mystical beings. This narrative choice to cast a young Black girl as the protagonist is significant; it mirrors bell hooks’ emphasis on the power of representation and narrative agency.

Through Meg’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment, the film underscores hooks’ advocacy for stories that allow Black individuals, especially young girls, to see themselves as central figures in expansive, fantastical worlds. Such representation is crucial in shaping one’s identity and worldview, offering a lens through which individuals can imagine themselves in roles traditionally not afforded to them in mainstream media. This alignment with hooks’ ideals showcases the film’s broader commitment to challenging and enriching the narrative possibilities for Black characters in cinema.

15. Bessie (2015)

Directed by Dee Rees

Bessie (2015) directed by Dee Rees is a compelling biographical film that showcases the life of the legendary blues singer Bessie Smith, masterfully portrayed by Queen Latifah. The film navigates Bessie’s ascent from a struggling young singer to her crowning as ‘The Empress of the Blues’. Set against the vibrant yet tumultuous backdrop of the 1920s-30s, Bessie delves deep into the singer’s personal and professional life, uncovering themes of resilience, artistic expression, and the multifaceted nature of the Black female experience.

Through its nuanced portrayal of Bessie Smith, the film echoes bell hooks’ critical perspective on the intersecting forces of racial, gender, and class hierarchies. It not only celebrates Smith’s monumental contributions to music and culture but also critically engages with the challenges she faced, offering a narrative that is both a tribute to her legacy and an insightful commentary on the societal constraints faced by Black women of her era. This narrative alignment with hooks’ critique underscores the film’s dedication to exploring and challenging the systemic barriers that shape the experiences and expressions of Black women in America.

16. Mississippi Damned (2009)

Directed by Tina Mabry

Mississippi Damned unfurls a harrowing narrative centred on three sisters and their family in rural Mississippi, entangled in a relentless cycle of abuse and poverty. The film’s raw and unyielding depiction of the family’s ordeal sheds light on the profound challenges they face, capturing the essence of resilience and an unwavering quest for freedom. Such themes resonate deeply with bell hooks’ discussions on the systemic oppression that pervades society and the critical importance of striving towards liberation.

Mississippi Damned not only aligns with hooks’ insights on overcoming societal constraints but also powerfully illustrates the resilience required to break free from the chains of oppression. Through its compelling storytelling and authentic portrayal of struggle, the film echoes hooks’ call for narratives that confront and challenge the status quo, offering a poignant exploration of the strength and determination inherent in the human spirit.

17. The Fits (2015)

Directed by Anna Rose Holmer

The Fits centres on Toni, an 11-year-old tomboy portrayed by Royalty Hightower, who transitions from boxing to the mesmerising world of a dance team. This shift sparks a profound exploration of her adolescence, challenging traditional notions of gender and identity. The film’s visual storytelling, enriched by the metaphorical use of ‘fits,’ poignantly reflects bell hooks’ discussions on self-realization and the intricate journey of maturing as a Black girl in America.

Toni’s evolving understanding of herself and her place in the world mirrors hooks’ emphasis on the importance of personal growth and the assertion of identity amidst societal pressures. The Fits stands out for its innovative narrative approach and compelling cinematography, offering a fresh perspective on the rites of passage and the quest for individuality, themes central to hooks’ philosophy on race, gender, and self-discovery.

18. Just Another Girl on the I.R.T. (1992)

Directed by Leslie Harris

Just Another Girl on the I.R.T. directed by Leslie Harris, focuses on the life of Chantel Mitchell, a spirited high school student with dreams of becoming a doctor, brought to life by Ariyan A. Johnson. This film delivers a candid portrayal of the myriad challenges encountered by a young Black woman as she navigates the intricacies of teenage life and the precipice of adulthood. Through its unembellished narrative and the vibrant performance of its lead, the film mirrors bell hooks’ insightful discussions on the intersections of youth, race, and gender, highlighting the complex web of societal expectations placed on young Black women.

Just Another Girl on the I.R.T. delves into themes of ambition, identity, and the struggle for self-definition against the backdrop of a society that often imposes limiting stereotypes. It stands as a poignant exploration of the pressures of achieving personal aspirations while confronting and navigating the multifaceted barriers of race and gender, embodying hooks’ advocacy for a critical examination of the narratives that shape the experiences of Black women.

19. Queen & Slim (2019)

Directed by Melina Matsoukas

Queen & Slim (2019), directed by Melina Matsoukas, tells the gripping story of a couple, portrayed by Daniel Kaluuya (Slim) and Jodie Turner-Smith (Queen), who is thrust into fugitive life following a self-defence incident against a police officer. The film’s rich storytelling and striking imagery deeply engage with themes of race, love, and societal injustice, encapsulating bell hooks’ focus on resistance and the intricate layers of Black identity in the face of pervasive systemic challenges.

Through its narrative, Queen & Slim not only explores the immediate consequences of the couple’s act of self-preservation but also broadens the dialogue to include the broader implications of their experience on community, solidarity, and the enduring struggle against oppression. This cinematic journey into the heart of America’s fraught racial landscape offers a poignant reflection on love as a radical act of defiance, aligning with hooks’ critique of societal structures and her call for a deeper understanding of identity, resistance, and liberation.

20. Beyond the Lights (2014)

Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood

The narrative centres around Noni, a young musician struggling with the pressures of fame, played by Gugu Mbatha-Raw, who finds strength and authenticity in her relationship with a police officer, Kaz, portrayed by Nate Parker. The film explores personal freedom, love, and the demanding nature of the entertainment industry, aligning with hooks’ discourse on self-recovery and the pursuit of authenticity amidst societal pressures.

21. The Body Remembers When the World Broke Open (2019)

Directed by Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers and Kathleen Hepburn

The Body Remembers When the World Broke Open captures a transformative moment between two Indigenous women from divergent backgrounds, brought together by serendipity. This film’s raw and intimate narrative dives deep into their individual and collective struggles, offering a profound insight into the complexities of their lives. Its authentic portrayal aligns with bell hooks’ emphasis on amplifying the voices of the marginalized and underscores the significance of solidarity across diverse cultures and experiences.

Conclusion:

By focusing on the nuanced exchange between the two women, the film not only sheds light on the specific challenges faced by Indigenous communities but also speaks to universal themes of connection, resilience, and healing. This narrative approach embodies hooks’ belief in the power of storytelling to foster understanding and empathy, highlighting the film’s contribution to broader conversations about intersectionality, support, and the shared journey towards liberation.

This collection of films, each a reflection of the profound insights of bell hooks, invites viewers to engage, reflect, and participate in the ongoing dialogue about race, gender, class, and the power of narrative in shaping our understanding of the world. It’s a tribute to the enduring legacy of bell hooks, a celebration of Black feminine narratives, and a call to action for all of us to be active participants in the collective journey towards understanding, equity, and justice.

Bibliography:

hooks, b. (1981). Ain’t I a Woman: Black Women and Feminism. Boston, MA: South End Press.

hooks, b. (1994). Teaching to Transgress: Education as the Practice of Freedom. New York, NY: Routledge.

hooks, b. (1995). Killing Rage: Ending Racism. New York, NY: Henry Holt and Company.

hooks, b. (2000). All About Love: New Visions. New York, NY: Harper Perennial.

hooks, b. (1984). Feminist Theory: From Margin to Center. Boston, MA: South End Press.