Black Sci-Fi

Overview

Part of the Birthrights series, this BBC Two documentary is a wonderful window into the groundbreaking contributions of Black writers and creatives to the world of science fiction across literature, film and television. The program explores the evolving portrayal of Black characters and narratives in a genre often dominated by exclusionary perspectives, featuring compelling interviews with trailblazers like Octavia Butler, Samuel R. Delany, Mike Sargent, Steven Barnes and Nichelle Nichols. Celebrating the imaginative brilliance of Black sci-fi and fantasy creators, this seeks to examine the complexities of race within said genres as well as the visionary paths these resilient storytellers forge for the future of speculative fiction.

Directed by Terrence Francis

Top cast

Octavia E. Butler

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Samuel R. Delany

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Mike Sargent

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Steven Barnes

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Nichelle Nichols

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Details