Filling the Gap

Gr 7 Up—Numerous African Americans have contributed to the betterment of the broader American culture. The names of many of these individuals are well-known, while others have not gained that stature, but nonetheless remain worthy of recognition. This program introduces a number of black Americans whose contributions to science, literature, art, the military, and other areas of our society have enriched all our lives through the past two centuries. Included in the recreations are significant figures such as abolitionist Frederick Douglass, Abraham Lincoln, architect Benjamin Banneker, author Phyllis Wheatley, and abolitionist/feminist Sojourner Truth. Tyrone Young, the producer/director/writer, utilizes the docudrama format, bringing to life these individuals in very well-recreated settings and period costumes. However, the danger with that format is realized with a stilted and artificial script delivered by well-intentioned actors in an amateurish, awkward manner. Contrived Southern accents will be distracting for school-age audiences. A 16-unit chapter selection option increases the usability of this film, but does not overcome the program's problematic script and uneasy acting.—Dwain Thomas, formerly of Lake Park High School, Roselle, IL