Side Effects of Black Cinema (with Desmond Thorne)

Life is about more than just diagnoses or challenges. It's about cherishing time with loved ones, experiencing joy, and living fully – whether that's through singing oldies or discovering new things. Desmond Thorne, a filmmaker and podcast host, shares this perspective. He grew up surrounded by movies, and his passion for filmmaking started at a young age. His valuable opinion comes from a lifetime of obsession with cinema and a history of standing up for important causes, like showcasing underrepresented stories. So, no matter what you're facing, remember to hold on to the things that bring you joy and connect you to others. For more information about Kaskali ribociclib and Desmond's podcast, Adventures in Black Cinema, check out their respective websites.

The speaker's passion for movies led her to discover her abilities in writing, directing, and camera work. She realized this during her senior year of college when she was offered a chance to create a sketch video series about gender issues on campus. Her love for movies went beyond just enjoying the stories and actors; she was intrigued by the creative process behind the scenes. This passion for the behind-the-scenes aspects gave her a unique perspective when it came to filmmaking. Another key point discussed was the difference between scripts written by directors versus those written by writers. The speaker noted that writer-directors tend to include more specificity of visual language in their scripts because they have to consider the practical aspects of shooting the film. They want to sell their entire vision to production companies and studios, making their scripts as clear and detailed as possible. Lastly, the speaker touched upon her interest in black films. She acknowledged that some people might argue that they are not specifically a black filmmaker but rather just a filmmaker. However, she emphasized that her identity as a black woman influences her perspective and the stories she wants to tell.

The representation of black people in black-made films and spaces holds significant importance for self-identity, cultural history, and community connection. These films can serve as a reflection of the past, a source of confidence, and a tool for understanding the experiences and perspectives of the black community. The involvement of black people in all aspects of film production adds to the authenticity and impact of these films. The Adventures in Black Cinema podcast aims to explore the journeys and themes presented in various black films, highlighting their unique contributions to both cinema and culture.

Babyface is a legendary figure in both music and Black cinema. Known for his distinctive babyface and cool demeanor, he has proven his skills not only as a singer but also as a prolific music producer. He has created iconic soundtracks for groundbreaking Black films like "Boomerang," "The Bodyguard," "Waiting to Exhale," and "Soul Food." Babyface's impact extends beyond music, as he continues to inspire and influence new generations through his artistry. Despite the focus on traumatic narratives in recent Black films, Babyface's work serves as a reminder of the rich variety and depth of Black experiences that can be explored on screen.

There is a need for more nuanced and intimate stories in Black film that are anchored in specific experiences, rather than trying to cover all experiences in a disjointed way. These stories have the ability to resonate universally despite their specificity. The film "Uncorked" serves as an example of a well-anchored film that effectively explores themes of family, identity, and privilege. However, it's important to note that critical discussions of Black films should come from a Black perspective and not be seen as derogatory or bashing. Instead, we should be able to parse out the parts of a film and provide constructive criticism, just as we do in all areas of life. By doing so, we can add value to the conversation and avoid outside criticisms that may not fully understand the Black experience.

The art of Black filmmaking holds a unique importance in telling Black stories due to its visual nature and the ability to take artistic chances. The perspective of Black filmmakers adds a tangible and experiential lens to the stories they tell, allowing viewers to see the world from a distinctly Black perspective. For example, the film "Waiting to Exhale," though not perfect, remains a classic due to its impactful performances and authentic portrayal of Black women's experiences. Additionally, films like "Tongues Untied" provide a specific and powerful representation of the gay Black experience. These films showcase the importance of Black filmmakers having the creative freedom to express their unique perspectives through the medium of film.

The representation of black gay experiences in film is a crucial and unique aspect of black cinema. The speaker shares a personal connection to a specific film from the 1980s, which they believe helped bring the community together through storytelling. They also highlight the importance of film as a medium for understanding and connecting with experiences that may be unfamiliar. The speaker differentiates between films and movies, emphasizing the importance of careful storytelling and attention to detail in films. They also mention the comfort and sense of unity that comes from seeing one's experiences reflected on screen. Overall, the speaker emphasizes the importance of black gay representation in film as a way to connect, understand, and celebrate unique experiences within the larger black community.

Visual jokes and unconventional storytelling are essential elements that elevate comedy from being a movie to a film. The pressure on black creatives to pack every idea into one project due to limited opportunities is unfair and can hinder the potential for truly provocative and thought-provoking content. Films like "Friday," "Daughters of the Dust," and "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" showcase the value of giving creators the freedom to explore unconventional narratives and symbolism, even if they may not be fully polished. Adventures in Black Cinema offers a unique perspective, providing deep dives into films and their cultural significance, as well as the speaker's personal experiences growing up as a gay black man in America. These discussions offer insights that are not commonly found on other film podcasts.

The Smartphone Young Black Podcast, hosted by Desmond Thorne, offers insightful discussions on black cinema through the lens of personal connection and the exploration of two themes. The podcast features the "You Better Act" award for recognizing standout black performances, as well as segments on current gay issues and hidden gem films. Listeners can enjoy the show whether they've seen the movie or not, and there are occasional guest appearances. Desmond and the host share a long-standing professional and personal relationship, with a mutual appreciation for the significance and history of black popular culture. The podcast aims to critically engage with and celebrate black cinema. Tune in to ABC's of Black Cinema, available on all major podcast platforms, and follow Desmond Thorne on Instagram @blackcinemapodcast.

Desmond Thorne, a multitalented filmmaker and host, is launching a new podcast called "Adventures in Black Cinema." In this podcast, Thorne will explore the world of black film through the lenses of his experiences as a black filmmaker, a queer black person, and a film programmer. Thorne's friend and collaborator, Amanda Seals, encouraged him to start the podcast due to his extensive knowledge and love for film. Listeners can expect in-depth discussions about various films each week. Thorne invites everyone to check out the podcast and also encourages them to visit sfpsociety.com, where Thorne is a host. Additionally, Thorne mentioned his excitement about watching upcoming black and live films. The podcast is being released under a podcast network, and listeners can win up to 100 times their money by using the code "GET100" on Prizepix, a fantasy sports app, for their first deposit of up to $100.