WINNER!
* FIPRESCI Award, International Film Festival Mannheim-Heidelberg 2022, Germany
* VISIONARY AWARD , Cinequest 2022
The Sleeping Negro, by Skinner Myers is a provocative and introspective film that delves into the complexities of race, identity, and societal expectations in contemporary America. The story centers around a young African American man grappling with the pressures and contradictions of living in a predominantly white society.
As the protagonist navigates his day-to-day life, he confronts instances of racism, microaggressions, and the internal conflicts that arise from trying to assimilate while preserving his cultural identity. The film boldly addresses themes of self-awareness, the psychological impact of systemic racism, and the struggle to find authenticity in a world that often demands conformity.
Skinner Myers’ approach to storytelling in The Sleeping Negro is both intimate and confrontational, compelling viewers to reflect on the deeper societal issues that affect African Americans. The film is particularly significant for its unflinching portrayal of the emotional and mental turmoil experienced by its main character. It is an essential resource for students and scholars in Africana Studies and Film Studies, providing a poignant exploration of racial dynamics and personal identity in the context of African American life.
Following on the footstep of the LA Rebellion filmmakers, Skinner Myers tells a very personal and intimate Black story in a radically non-traditional cinematic style as a means to express freely his feelings as a Black man in America.
By Skinner Myers, USA, 2021, 72min, Drama, English
"A superb character study of a black man, how he sees himself and how he was treated by society, it is surreal yet real and terrifying." ~ Ulkar Alakbarova, moviemovesme.com
"Remaining asleep to Myers as an African-American is a sin, but so is to be completely awake to the point where love for the self is all but embraced. In this impassioned, vigorous, lucid cinematic journey, the bleak, bruised-yet-fighting spirit of one Kendrick Lamar’s and every other prominent African artist strikes like lightning, and resonates like thunder. Like the greats, Myers, is a voice in his lane to place one’s focus on; his artistry effortlessly commanding, a feat implying many more to be accomplished in a budding career in American independent filmmaking." ~ LOUIE BAHAROM, cinephiliaph.wordpress.com
