Towering literary lion, fierce social critic, and inimitable cultural icon James Baldwin opened up a new space for the frank discussion of race, sexuality, and identity in American society. He also left behind a dynamic cinematic legacy, as seen in these portraits that capture his electrifying presence and passionate eloquence.

Meeting the Man: James Baldwin in Paris
Terence Dixon, 1970, 28 min

“In 1970, a British film crew set out to make a literary portrait of James Baldwin set in Paris, insisting on setting aside his activism. The author visits Parisian landmarks and reflects on revolution, colonialism, and what it means to be Black in Europe – while bristling at the filmmakers’ questions. Tense, combative, discursive: a meeting with James Baldwin doesn’t quite go according to plan for a group of presumptuous white filmmakers in this rarely seen, Paris-set short film. An illuminating snapshot of Baldwin’s intellectual worldview that bristles with friction and ideas.” – MUBI

Baldwin’s Nigger
Horace Ové, 1968, 46 min

“Titled after James Baldwin’s assertion that the legacy of slavery is imprinted on his very name and identity, Trinidad-born British director Horace Ové’s provocative documentary captures Baldwin (accompanied by comedian and activist Dick Gregory) lecturing an audience at London’s West Indian Students’ Centre about America’s racist history, its impact on contemporary social divisions and foreign imperialism, and the possibilities for revolutionary resistance against oppression. With eloquent passion and flashes of humour, the legendary writer touches on a wide range of issues, including the relationship between capitalism and racism, the role of white liberals in the Black Power movement, and the ability of language to shape consciousness.” – Janus Films