Plot Synopsis

Executive produced by Forest Whitaker and director Justin Simien, HOLLYWOOD BLACK is a four-part documentary series that's inspired by Donald Bogle's 2019 book, "Hollywood Black: The Stars, the Films, the Filmmakers." The series chronicles a century of the Black experience in Hollywood. By unearthing personal stories from actors, writers, directors, and producers who fought for their place on the page, behind the camera and on the screen, the series provides a critical reexamination of a quintessentially American story -- in brilliant color. HOLLYWOOD BLACK features Justin Simien, W. Kamau Bell, Steven Caple, Jr., Ryan Coogler, Ava DuVernay, Gina Prince-Bythewood, Issa Rae, LaKeith Stanfield, Gabrielle Union, Lena Waithe, Forest Whitaker, and more. The four episodes are:

"Built on Our Backs" (Sunday, August 11, 2024): From the silent era to the late 1960s, an emboldened generation of Black actors and directors make films that counter denigrating imagery of Black people and forever change Hollywood's perception of Black storytellers.

"The Defiant Ones" (Sunday, August 18, 2024): Following the unrest of the 1960s, Black filmmakers look to celebrate Black culture on screen. As Hollywood begins to see dollar signs, Black actors and directors try to maintain their dignity without selling out.

"The Price of Admission" (Sunday, August 25, 2024): In the 1990s, a new generation of Black filmmakers and megastars are embraced by the studio system. Yet independent and female filmmakers who diverge from mainstream portrayals of Black life still struggle for recognition.

"Dear Black People" (Sunday, September 1, 2024): After the election of President Barack Obama, Hollywood offers Black filmmakers more opportunities than ever. From Selma to Get Out to Black Panther, Black filmmakers embrace new genres to critical and commercial success.