The Black Film Club, created in partnership with the Enfield Caribbean Association, aims to provide a platform for Black filmmakers, actors, and storytellers across all genres
In collaboration with Enfield Council, Enfield’s Dugdale Arts Centre (DAC) has unveiled an exciting new initiative—the Black Film Club. This innovative programme is designed to champion Black talent within the film and television industry by showcasing classic and contemporary works highlighting Black-led storytelling.
The Black Film Club, created in partnership with the Enfield Caribbean Association, aims to provide a platform for Black filmmakers, actors, and storytellers across all genres. The initiative seeks to engage diverse audiences by amplifying Black voices and narratives, celebrating their contributions to the cinematic landscape. With a dynamic programme running until 20 March 2025, the club promises a rich selection of films that explore Black culture, identity, and history.
The inaugural screenings will feature the 1980s cult classic Babylon (1980), a film renowned for its raw and compelling portrayal of London’s reggae scene and the racial tensions of the time. Accompanying it on the programme is the newly released animated feature The Wild Robot (2024), offering a contemporary take on Black-led storytelling through a fresh and engaging medium. Both films exemplify the beauty and depth of Black-led film production, demonstrating the enduring impact of Black creatives in the industry.
Platform for Discussion, Engagement
Beyond film screenings, the Black Film Club fosters dialogue and learning through various post-show activities. Audiences can engage in panel discussions, children’s workshops, and other interactive events designed to deepen their understanding of filmmaking and the themes explored in the featured films.
Tickets for the screenings are affordably priced at £5 for adults and £3 for children under 12, ensuring accessibility for all community members. By keeping ticket prices low, the organisers hope to encourage widespread participation and inspire new generations of filmmakers and storytellers.
Running until 20 March 2025, the DAC will screen the 80s cult classic Babylon (1980) and the brand-new animated release The Wild Robot (2024) to share the beauty of Black-led film production and storytelling
Sabri Ozaydin, Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Placemaking, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative. He stated: “We are very proud to host the Black Film Club in Enfield to represent, preserve, and support Black talent in the screen industries. We are committed to empowering and inspiring our communities to create and make. Thanks to the support from The New Black Film Collective, we can exhibit amazing Black-led films.”
Commitment to Inclusivity, Representation
The launch of the Black Film Club aligns with Enfield Council’s broader mission to foster inclusivity and create opportunities for all residents. The initiative reflects a commitment to cultural diversity and equal representation in the arts by providing a dedicated space to celebrate Black filmmakers and their stories.
The New Black Film Collective, an organisation dedicated to promoting Black-led film production, distribution, and exhibition, is a key supporter of the Black Film Club. The collective has long advocated for preserving Black filmmaking and television, ensuring that these crucial narratives continue to be seen and appreciated by wider audiences.
With an increasing demand for more inclusive representation in the film and television industry, the Black Film Club arrives at a pivotal time. Recent studies have highlighted disparities in opportunities for Black creatives, and initiatives such as this play a crucial role in addressing these challenges by providing a visible and supportive platform.
Legacy of Black-Led Filmmaking
The two films selected for the Black Film Club’s programme serve as fitting representations of Black storytelling across generations. Babylon, directed by Franco Rosso, is widely regarded as one of the most authentic depictions of Black British life in the late 20th century. It follows the story of a young reggae DJ navigating racism, social struggles, and the vibrancy of London’s music scene. The film’s unfiltered realism has earned it a lasting place in cinema history and makes it an ideal feature for audiences seeking to understand the historical experiences of Black communities in Britain.
On the other hand, The Wild Robot (2024) offers a distinctly modern perspective, blending animation with powerful storytelling. As a new release, the film represents the continued evolution of Black-led filmmaking, demonstrating the innovative ways Black stories are being told in contemporary cinema. Combining these two films within the Black Film Club’s programme ensures that audiences gain an appreciation of historical and modern contributions to the industry.
A Call to Action
The introduction of the Black Film Club invites Enfield residents and film enthusiasts from across London to experience and support Black cinema. By attending screenings and participating in post-show discussions, audiences can contribute to a growing movement that seeks to elevate Black creatives and ensure their stories are heard.
With a year-long schedule of films and activities, the Black Film Club is poised to become a cultural fixture in Enfield. The initiative celebrates artistic achievement and inspires future generations of Black filmmakers and storytellers to bring their visions to life.
We are very proud to host the Black Film Club in Enfield to represent, preserve and support Black talent in the screen industries.
Sabri Ozaydin, Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Placemaking
As the programme unfolds, organisers encourage the community to participate, engage in meaningful discussions, and support Black-led filmmaking. By doing so, Enfield continues its commitment to fostering an inclusive and dynamic cultural environment where all voices are valued and represented.
Tickets and further information are available for those interested in attending the Black Film Club through the Dugdale Arts Centre’s official website. The journey to celebrate and empower Black voices in cinema has begun, and Enfield is proud to lead the way.
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