From celebrated writer and film historian Elvis Mitchell, “Is That Black Enough For You?!?” is both a documentary and deeply personal essay. The film examines the craft and power of cinema from a perspective often overlooked: the African American contribution to films released from the landmark era of the 1970s. It is a deep dive into the impact that point of view had on movies, as well as popular culture, and serves as a love letter to film, posing questions that have never been asked, let alone answered. Crucial artistic voices, including director Charles Burnett, Samuel L. Jackson, Whoopi Goldberg, Laurence Fishburne, Zendaya and others, offer their distinctive prism on the creators and films that dazzled and inspired. The film provides insight into the history of Black representation going back to the earliest days of cinema, and the cultural impact of witnessing unapologetic Blackness. Mitchell, who makes his directorial debut in “Is That Black Enough For You?!?,” is a Highland Park native and Wayne State University alum. He holds the position as the Bob Allison (Allesee) Endowed Chair in Media at WSU beginning in May 2023. Michigan Premiere.

AFTER THE FILM: Elliot Wilhelm, director of the Detroit Film Theatre, interviews director Elvis Mitchell and Laurence Fishburne.

The Michigan premiere will feature an in-person appearance by Elvis Mitchell followed by a reception in the Rivera Court at the Detroit Institute of Arts co-sponsored by the Friends of the Detroit Film Theatre. There is a limited number of tickets available to the reception. This event is in partnership with Wayne State University College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts where Mitchell will hold the position as the Bob Allison (Allesee) Endowed Chair in Media beginning in May 2023.