Film Analysis Worksheet
Prof. Cook—American Ethnic Studies Department
Name:
1. What is the title and subject of the film?
The title of the film is “The African American Many Rivers to Cross Episode 4: Making a Way Out of No
Way”, and it retells and depicts the unrelenting struggle of former African slaves to make a living amidst great
obstacles of racism. It also explores the continuous intent and attempts by whites in the South to keep former
slaves in a state of subjugation.
2. What period in history was being depicted in this film?
The period depicted by the film is between the years 1897 - 1940.
3. When was the film produced?
The film was produced in 2013.
4. What is the mood or tone of the film? How does it affect emotions?
The mood of the film is both hopeful and saddening. The portrayal of former slaves succeeding in business
amidst Jim Craw laws brought a very hopeful mood to the film while the images of lynched and hanged black
men, women, and children was chilling and saddening to see. However, overall the mood of the film is hopeful.
5. What are the physical qualities of the film and how does it add to film? (Narration, music, special effects,
lighting, etc.)
The narration is outstanding and the interviews are very informative. The music is very consistent with the
period being explored; which very upbeat and very joyous reflective of the booming years of Harlem as a black
people’s ‘Mecca’.
6. What is the main message of film and what does this film tell you about life in US at the time it was created?
Prof. Cook—American Ethnic Studies Department
Name:
1. What is the title and subject of the film?
The title of the film is “The African American Many Rivers to Cross Episode 4: Making a Way Out of No
Way”, and it retells and depicts the unrelenting struggle of former African slaves to make a living amidst great
obstacles of racism. It also explores the continuous intent and attempts by whites in the South to keep former
slaves in a state of subjugation.
2. What period in history was being depicted in this film?
The period depicted by the film is between the years 1897 - 1940.
3. When was the film produced?
The film was produced in 2013.
4. What is the mood or tone of the film? How does it affect emotions?
The mood of the film is both hopeful and saddening. The portrayal of former slaves succeeding in business
amidst Jim Craw laws brought a very hopeful mood to the film while the images of lynched and hanged black
men, women, and children was chilling and saddening to see. However, overall the mood of the film is hopeful.
5. What are the physical qualities of the film and how does it add to film? (Narration, music, special effects,
lighting, etc.)
The narration is outstanding and the interviews are very informative. The music is very consistent with the
period being explored; which very upbeat and very joyous reflective of the booming years of Harlem as a black
people’s ‘Mecca’.
6. What is the main message of film and what does this film tell you about life in US at the time it was created?
