Afternoon Film: Through a Lens Darkly

2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Crandall Public Library
Christine L. McDonald Community Room

Event Details

(USA, 2014, 90 min., color, DVD, NR)

The first documentary to explore the role of photography in shaping the identity, aspirations and social emergence of African Americans from slavery to the present, Through a Lens Darkly probes the recesses of American history by discovering images that have been suppressed, forgotten and lost.

Bringing to light the hidden and unknown photos shot by both professional and vernacular African American photographers, the film opens a window into lives, experiences and perspectives of black families that is absent from the traditional historical canon. These images show a much more complex and nuanced view of American culture and society and its founding ideals.

Inspired by Deborah Willis's book Reflections in Black and featuring the works of Carrie Mae Weems, Lorna Simpson, Anthony Barboza, Hank Willis Thomas, Coco Fusco, Clarissa Sligh and many others, Through a Lens Darkly introduces the viewer to a diverse yet focused community of storytellers who transform singular experiences into a communal journey of discovery – and a call to action. – First Run Features

"A fascinating, visually stunning, emotionally devastating documentary by Thomas Allen Harris.” – Ann Hornaday, The Washington Post, 12/11/2014

This program is made possible in part with public funds from the Electronic Media and Film Program of the State of the New York State Council of the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.


Event Type(s): Film Program
Age Group(s): Adults