The African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) is kicking off its Summer Screening Series of films, new and classic, followed by group discussions with Uppity, the documentary about race car legend Willy T. Ribbs, who competed in NASCAR, the Trans-Am racing series and the Indianapolis 500. Executive produced by Van Lathan and Nic Maye, Uppity screened Saturday, June 29, at the Auburn Avenue Research Library in Atlanta, with a Q&A featuring Mr. Ribbs himself, as well as a reception in his honor.
The excellent documentary goes in-depth with Ribbs and the racism he faced while trying to pursue a race car career and the ways that Black icons like Muhammad Ali helped keep him in the fight to make history.
“The Summer Screening Series is one of the ways AAFCA engages the community. The films selected give us an opportunity to mark milestones with beloved films, ponder themes and impact,” said AAFCA co-founder and CEO Gil Robertson.“Last year, we were fortunate to revisit Poetic Justice for its 25th anniversary with dear AAFCA friend and film legend John Singleton, who we recently lost.”
“This year, in addition to getting to know racing legend Willy T. Ribbs, we look forward to exploring James Baldwin’s impactful explorations of race in two film adaptations of his novels Go Tell It on the Mountain and If Beale Street Could Talk. We also look forward to sharing the 21st century update I Got the Hook Up 2 to the 1998 underground classic,” said Robertson.
On August 1, AAFCA will also honor entertainment marketing executive Carolyn Sloss, Vice President of Allied Global Marketing for its 8th annual Synergy ATL program at the Auburn Avenue Research Library.
“For more than a decade Carolyn has led the growth trajectory of the film and entertainment community in Atlanta,” saidRobertson. “Her commitment to the Arts & Entertainment scene has been impactful to the permanent infrastructure that we see today throughout this region. AAFCA is very proud to salute her.”
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