The Black Mirror: Representations of race in the horror film

Carmel Smickersgill, Tours & Activities Editor

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The Black Mirror: Representations of race in the horror film

HOME Manchester, Manchester
29 October 2020

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

HOME
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We’re living in a golden age of horror films that interrogate issues of race in society. Leading this cultural wave are some of the most inventive Black directors mainstream horror has seen. In the run up to Halloween, HOME is welcoming cultural commentators to discuss representations of race in horror and celebrate some of the new champions in the genre.

From Jordan Peele’s psychological thrillers Get Out and Us, to Nia DaCosta’s eagerly awaited Candyman (2021), the narrative is being rewritten for black characters in horror. For most of film history, Black actors have appeared in horror films in supporting roles. Many were deeply problematic. Now, rather than simply including Black characters, many of these films are created by, star or focus on Black people, life and culture.

Discussing the films, the issues and the people behind the art will be Esther Lisk-Carew, Adam Murry and Liz Chege. As a podcaster, and two film curators they are highly informed and have valuable opinions around the history of Black horror and the portrayal of Black people in the genre. Check out Esther’s Well Spoken Tokens podcasts, to hear some of her previous talks centered around representations of race in society and how we can achieve positive social change.

Participants are welcome to submit their questions in advance via direct message on Twitter @HOME_mcr or Instagram @homemcr.

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