Screens Fade to Black

The 2002 Oscars, where Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, and Sidney Poitier won, serves as a pivotal moment for African Americans in film, prompting a deeper exploration of their representation in cinema. David Leonard analyzes the evolution of African-American cinema through notable films like Love and Basketball and Training Day, highlighting the contributions of black directors, writers, and actors. The study critiques the media's portrayal of this milestone while addressing ongoing issues of representation and opportunity within the industry.