Where to Watch Ethnic Notions (1986) in the US

What it's about

Ethnic Notions is Marlon Riggs' Emmy-winning documentary that takes viewers on a disturbing voyage through American history, tracing for the first time the deep-rooted stereotypes which have fueled anti-black prejudice. Through these images we can begin to understand the evolution of racial consciousness in America. Loyal Toms, carefree Sambos, faithful Mammies, grinning Coons, savage Brutes, and wide-eyed Pickaninnies roll across the screen in cartoons, feature films, popular songs, minstrel shows, advertisements, folklore, household artifacts, even children's rhymes. These dehumanizing caricatures permeated popular culture from the 1820s to the Civil Rights period and implanted themselves deep in the American psyche. Narration by Esther Rolle and commentary by respected scholars shed light on the origins and devastating consequences of this 150 yearlong parade of bigotry. Ethnic Notions situates each stereotype historically in white society's shifting needs to justify racist oppression from slavery to the present day. The insidious images exacted a devastating toll on black Americans and continue to undermine race relations.

Cast and crew

Director

Marlon Riggs

Starring

Barbara T. Christian, George Frederickson, Larry C. Levine

Details

Language

English

Country

United States, Canada

Where to Watch Ethnic Notions (1986) in the US — common questions

Where to watch Ethnic Notions in the United States?

Ethnic Notions is available with a subscription or free with a participating library card in the United States. Watch the movie with a subscription on OVID. Watch the movie free with a participating library card on Kanopy (HD).

Can I stream Ethnic Notions or do I have to rent it in the United States?

Watch the movie with a subscription on OVID.

Can I watch Ethnic Notions for free in the United States?

Watch the movie free with a participating library card on Kanopy (HD).